Cars with Apple CarPlay: 2025 Models, Compatibility & Future Trends

Shopping for cars with Apple CarPlay? You’ve come to the right place. Apple CarPlay has honestly become as essential as air conditioning for most of us these days, I mean, who wants to fumble with their phone while driving? I’m here to break down everything you need to know about which Apple CarPlay cars are available, how to get it if yours doesn’t, and what’s coming down the pipeline.

Key Takeaways

• Over 800 car models from 2016 onwards support Apple CarPlay across virtually every major brand

• Factory CarPlay comes standard on 90% of new 2025 vehicles, with most offering wireless connectivity

• Aftermarket solutions start at $300 and can add CarPlay to older vehicles without factory support

• CarPlay Ultra launched in 2025 with Aston Martin, offering deeper vehicle integration and customization

• GM has removed CarPlay from new electric vehicles, sparking industry debate about the technology’s future

Here’s the good news: if you’re car shopping in 2025, you’ll be hard-pressed to find CarPlay cars that aren’t available. According to recent industry data, over 90% of new Apple CarPlay vehicles include either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard equipment. Pretty impressive, right?

Mainstream Brands Leading the Way

Honda and Acura have made CarPlay standard across their entire 2025 lineup. Every Accord, CR-V, Civic, and Pilot comes with wireless Apple CarPlay right out of the box. I’ve tested similar systems in various Apple CarPlay compatible vehicles, and honestly, the connection happens within seconds of starting the car, it’s almost seamless.

Toyota and Lexus offer CarPlay on most 2025 models, including the RAV4, Camry, and Highlander. The notable exception? The Land Cruiser, which Toyota has kept deliberately simple for off-road reliability (makes sense if you think about it).

Chevrolet includes CarPlay on popular models like the Trax, Silverado, Equinox, and even the high-performance Corvette Stingray. Most Apple CarPlay compatible cars offer both wired and wireless connections, which is pretty convenient.

Ford supports CarPlay across its lineup, with the F-150, Mustang Mach-E, and Explorer featuring the latest SYNC 4 system that’s compatible with the new CarPlay Ultra.

Luxury Brands Going All-In

Mercedes-Benz offers wireless CarPlay on all 2025 G-Class and GLE models through their MBUX infotainment system. The integration is seamless, and the interface adapts beautifully to Mercedes’ luxury aesthetic, it really feels like it belongs there.

BMW includes CarPlay support on iDrive 7+ systems found in the 2025 iX, i4, and X7 models. BMW was initially resistant to CarPlay (they wanted to control everything), but they’ve fully embraced it after customer demand became too strong to ignore.

Aston Martin deserves special mention as the first automaker to launch CarPlay Ultra in their DBX, Vantage, and DB12 models. I’ll dive deeper into this system later, it’s genuinely impressive.

Electric Vehicle Landscape

Here’s where things get a bit more interesting (and controversial). Most vehicles compatible with Apple CarPlay include EVs, but there’s a notable exception that’s causing quite a stir in the industry.

Tesla still doesn’t offer CarPlay, maintaining their closed ecosystem approach. However, many Tesla owners use aftermarket solutions to add CarPlay functionality, kind of ironic, isn’t it?

Nissan Ariya, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 all include CarPlay support, recognizing that EV buyers still want their familiar iPhone interface.

General Motors made headlines by removing CarPlay from their new Ultium platform EVs, including the Chevy Blazer EV. This decision has been controversial, with many customers expressing frustration over losing this feature. (More on this later, it’s quite the story.)

The biggest CarPlay news of 2025 is the launch of CarPlay Ultra, and from what I’ve seen, it’s a complete game-changer.

What Makes CarPlay Ultra Different

CarPlay Ultra isn’t just an upgraded version, it’s a complete reimagining of how your iPhone integrates with your car. Instead of taking over just the infotainment screen, CarPlay Ultra can control multiple displays throughout the vehicle. Pretty cool, right?

In the Aston Martin implementation, CarPlay Ultra spans both the central touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster. You can view iPhone Maps navigation directly behind the steering wheel while controlling music and climate settings through the center display. It’s like having your iPhone everywhere at once.

Deep Vehicle Integration

What’s most impressive is how CarPlay Ultra integrates with vehicle-specific functions. In the DBX, drivers can adjust the car’s drive modes (Sport+, Track, etc.) directly through CarPlay’s interface. The system even displays real-time tire pressure and vehicle diagnostics in a way that feels native to iOS. This level of integration was unthinkable just a few years ago.

Coming to More Brands

While Aston Martin led the charge, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis have committed to rolling out CarPlay Ultra starting in late 2025. Their implementation will likely debut in the Ioniq 7, EV9, and GV60 respectively.

Ford has confirmed that their SYNC 4 system is CarPlay Ultra-ready, though they haven’t announced a specific rollout timeline for existing models.

The Challenges Ahead

Not every automaker is rushing to adopt CarPlay Ultra, though. Mercedes-Benz initially committed to the platform but has since backed out, citing concerns about maintaining their brand experience. This highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies and traditional automakers over who controls the in-car experience. It’s fascinating to watch this battle unfold.

If your current car doesn’t have CarPlay, don’t worry, you’re not stuck with it forever. The aftermarket industry has developed excellent solutions that can bring modern smartphone integration to virtually any vehicle.

Tesla-Style Vertical Screens

One of the most dramatic upgrades available is a Tesla-style vertical screen that can completely transform your car’s interior. At Car Tech Studio, we’ve developed Tesla-style screens for dozens of popular vehicles, including the Ford F-150, Honda Civic, and Toyota Camry.

These systems don’t just add CarPlay, they create an entirely new infotainment experience with a massive touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and access to streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube when parked.

Based on our experience at Car Tech Studio, the difference in quality between OEM tech from cars between 2010-2020 and the aftermarket products we sell is honestly dramatic. The screens are much better, the responsiveness is faster, and the connectivity is superior. Everything from Bluetooth quality to navigation feels like a 10x improvement.

CarPlay Modules for Existing Screens

If you want to keep your factory look, CarPlay modules are an excellent option. These small devices connect to your existing infotainment system and add CarPlay functionality without changing the physical appearance of your dashboard, your dealer might not even notice the difference.

We offer Apple CarPlay & Android Auto modules for luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. They’re particularly popular among lease customers who want to add CarPlay without making permanent modifications to their vehicle.

Understanding Apple CarPlay compatibility is crucial before making any purchasing decisions, whether you’re buying a new car or upgrading an existing one. Let me break this down for you.

iPhone Requirements

For standard CarPlay, you need an iPhone 5 or newer running iOS 7.1 or later. Basically, any iPhone from the last decade will work fine, even that old iPhone 6 sitting in your drawer.

Wireless CarPlay has higher requirements, you’ll typically need an iPhone 6 or newer, though some implementations work best with iPhone 8 or later models.

For the new CarPlay Ultra, Apple requires an iPhone 12 or newer running iOS 18.5 or later. This ensures the device has enough processing power to handle the expanded functionality.

Vehicle Requirements

Most cars with CarPlay use a USB connection for wired connectivity. The USB port needs to support data transfer, not just charging, something to verify if you’re experiencing connection issues (this trips up more people than you’d think).

Wireless CarPlay requires both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities in the vehicle’s infotainment system. The car creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that your iPhone connects to for the actual data transfer, while Bluetooth handles the initial pairing.

Common Compatibility Issues

Based on our experience at Car Tech Studio, we’ve encountered several recurring compatibility problems worth mentioning:

Lightning Cable Quality: Poor-quality or damaged Lightning cables are the most common cause of CarPlay connection issues. Always use MFi-certified cables, and replace them regularly if you use CarPlay frequently.

iOS Updates: Sometimes iOS updates can temporarily break CarPlay functionality with certain vehicles. This usually resolves itself within a few days as Apple pushes fixes, but it can be frustrating in the meantime.

Vehicle Software: Many CarPlay issues stem from outdated vehicle software. Check with your dealer about available infotainment system updates, they’re often forgotten about.

While CarPlay generally works well, real-world usage reveals some persistent challenges that potential buyers should understand. Let me give you the honest truth here.

The Good: Why People Love CarPlay

According to a 2024 survey by Consumer Reports, 57% of drivers prefer CarPlay over their vehicle’s built-in infotainment system. The reasons are clear: familiar interface, reliable navigation, and seamless integration with iPhone apps.

From our experience with thousands of customers at Car Tech Studio, the consistency is CarPlay’s biggest strength. Whether you’re in a Honda Civic or a Mercedes S-Class, the core experience remains familiar and intuitive. No learning curve when you switch between different CarPlay vehicles.

The Frustrating: Common Problems

Connection Reliability: Some vehicles, particularly 2020 Acura RDX models, have persistent CarPlay disconnection issues. Users report the system randomly dropping connections mid-drive, which can be dangerous when relying on navigation. Not exactly what you want happening on the highway.

Audio Quality: Certain Nissan Frontier models experience static interference when using CarPlay with Apple Maps, though music apps work fine. This appears to be a software issue that varies by model year.

Dealer Misinformation: We’ve heard from customers who were told by dealers that their vehicle included CarPlay, only to discover it wasn’t actually available. Always verify CarPlay compatibility independently before finalizing any purchase, don’t just take their word for it.

The Controversial: Industry Pushback

GM’s Bold Move: General Motors’ decision to remove CarPlay from their electric vehicles has been polarizing. They argue that their built-in Google-based system provides better integration with vehicle functions and generates subscription revenue.

However, early customer feedback has been largely negative. Many Chevy Blazer EV buyers have expressed frustration about losing CarPlay functionality, with some canceling orders entirely. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out.

Dealership Resistance: Some dealers actively discourage CarPlay adoption, preferring customers use built-in navigation systems that generate ongoing revenue through map updates and subscription services. It’s all about the money, unfortunately.

With so many options available, choosing the right CarPlay solution depends on your specific needs, budget, and technical comfort level. Let me help you navigate this.

For New Car Buyers

Verify Standard Equipment: Don’t assume CarPlay is included, I can’t stress this enough. While most 2025 Apple CarPlay models offer it, trim levels and regional variations can affect availability.

Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless CarPlay is incredibly convenient but can drain your iPhone’s battery faster. Consider your typical drive length and charging habits before deciding.

Screen Size and Quality: CarPlay’s usability greatly depends on screen size and resolution. Larger, higher-resolution displays provide a much better experience, especially for navigation. Trust me on this one.

For Aftermarket Upgrades

Professional Installation: While some premium Android head units claim “plug-and-play” installation, professional installation ensures proper integration with steering wheel controls, backup cameras, and other vehicle systems.

Retention of Features: Verify that your chosen solution preserves important features like climate control access, satellite radio, and vehicle settings. You don’t want to lose functionality you’re used to.

Future-Proofing: Consider solutions that can be updated for CarPlay Ultra compatibility, even if you don’t need it immediately.

Budget Considerations

Entry Level ($300-600): Basic aftermarket head units with wired CarPlay. Good functionality but limited integration with vehicle systems.

Mid-Range ($600-1,200): Premium head units or CarPlay modules with wireless connectivity and better vehicle integration.

High-End ($1,200+): Tesla-style screens or custom installations that completely transform the vehicle’s interior technology.

The Future of CarPlay: What’s Coming Next

Looking ahead, Apple CarPlay is evolving rapidly, and the automotive industry is grappling with how much control to give to tech companies. It’s a fascinating battle to watch.

CarPlay Ultra Expansion

Apple has confirmed that CarPlay Ultra will support even deeper vehicle integration in future updates. Expect to see control over advanced driver assistance systems, energy management in EVs, and enhanced personalization features.

The platform will likely expand beyond traditional automotive brands. We wouldn’t be surprised to see CarPlay Ultra in commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and even boats within the next few years. Why not, right?

Industry Resistance and Alternatives

The automotive industry is pushing back against Apple’s growing influence. GM’s move away from CarPlay represents a broader trend of automakers wanting to control the entire user experience (and the revenue that comes with it).

Google is aggressively promoting Android Automotive (different from Android Auto) as a built-in solution that doesn’t require a phone connection. Several automakers, including Volvo and Ford, are experimenting with this approach.

The Subscription Question

One concerning trend is the potential for CarPlay features to become subscription-based. While Apple hasn’t announced such plans, some automakers are exploring charging monthly fees for advanced smartphone integration features. Let’s hope this doesn’t become the norm.

For readers who want to dive deeper into the technical aspects of CarPlay implementation, there are several important considerations worth exploring.

Data Usage and Privacy

CarPlay processes most data locally on your iPhone, which means better privacy protection compared to cloud-based vehicle systems. However, wireless CarPlay does create a local network that could theoretically be intercepted.

Navigation data through Apple Maps is encrypted and doesn’t store location history in the vehicle’s systems, unlike some built-in navigation solutions. That’s a big privacy win.

Performance Optimization

CarPlay performance varies significantly based on iPhone model and vehicle implementation. Newer iPhones with faster processors provide noticeably smoother performance, especially when multitasking between navigation and music apps.

Some CarPlay vehicles prioritize certain CarPlay functions over others. For example, navigation typically gets processing priority over streaming music, which can cause brief audio interruptions during route calculations.

Integration Limitations

Current CarPlay implementations have several limitations that CarPlay Ultra aims to address:

Single Screen Restriction: Traditional CarPlay only works on one display, limiting its usefulness in CarPlay compatible vehicles with multiple screens.

Limited Vehicle Control: Standard CarPlay can’t adjust most vehicle settings like climate control or drive modes.

App Restrictions: Apple limits which types of apps can run on CarPlay, focusing primarily on navigation, communication, and audio apps.

What cars have Apple CarPlay in 2025?

Over 800 car models from virtually every major automaker include Apple CarPlay support. This includes all major brands like Honda, Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. The notable exceptions are Tesla (which uses a proprietary system) and some GM electric vehicles.

Can I add Apple CarPlay to an older car?

Absolutely! There are several ways to add CarPlay to older vehicles. Aftermarket head units start around $300 and can replace your factory radio entirely. CarPlay modules can add functionality to existing infotainment systems without changing the appearance. Tesla-style vertical screens offer the most dramatic upgrade but cost $1,000 or more.

Is Apple CarPlay Ultra worth waiting for?

CarPlay Ultra offers significantly enhanced functionality, including multi-screen support and deep vehicle integration. However, it’s currently only available in select Aston Martin models, with broader adoption expected in 2026. Unless you’re specifically shopping for a luxury vehicle, standard CarPlay meets most users’ needs perfectly well.

What year cars have Apple CarPlay?

Most car models with Apple CarPlay started offering it from 2016 onwards, with earlier adopters like Honda and Ford beginning in 2015. The majority of vehicles compatible with Apple CarPlay are from 2017 model year and newer.

Why did GM remove Apple CarPlay from their electric vehicles?

GM argues that their integrated Google-based system provides better functionality and allows them to control the entire user experience. They also generate ongoing revenue through subscriptions and services. However, the decision has been controversial, with many customers expressing strong preference for CarPlay.

Apple CarPlay has become much more than a nice-to-have feature, it’s now an essential consideration for most buyers of cars with Apple CarPlay. Whether you’re shopping for a new vehicle or looking to upgrade your current ride, understanding your CarPlay options will help you make the best decision for your needs.

The technology continues evolving rapidly, with CarPlay Ultra representing just the beginning of deeper smartphone-vehicle integration. While some automakers resist this trend, consumer demand remains overwhelmingly in favor of familiar, reliable smartphone interfaces in their vehicles.

If you’re in the market for aftermarket CarPlay solutions, consider your long-term needs carefully. A modest investment in a quality head unit or CarPlay module can transform your driving experience and keep your older vehicle feeling modern for years to come.

At Car Tech Studio, we’ve helped thousands of customers add CarPlay functionality to their vehicles, from simple plug-in modules to complete interior transformations with Tesla-style screens. The technology has matured to the point where there’s truly a solution for every vehicle and budget.

The future of in-car technology is undoubtedly connected, personalized, and smartphone-centric. Apple CarPlay continues leading this transformation, making every drive more convenient, entertaining, and safe. And honestly? That’s exactly what we all want from our cars.