Here's What Automakers Told Us About CarPlay Ultra (Not Very Much)
Curious about Apple CarPlay Ultra and which carmakers are embracing this next-gen in-vehicle system? CarPlay Ultra, Apple's advanced infotainment upgrade, promises a deeper integration with your vehicle’s display, delivering a seamless driving experience. Currently exclusive to luxury Aston Martin models in the U.S. and Canada, many users wonder: Which automakers will support CarPlay Ultra soon? When will it arrive in more vehicles? This guide breaks down what leading car brands have shared about their CarPlay Ultra plans in 2025, providing clarity on this high-demand tech upgrade.
Apple officially launched CarPlay Ultra earlier this month, marking a significant leap in how drivers interact with their cars. Unlike previous versions, CarPlay Ultra extends across the entire instrument cluster, integrating navigation, entertainment, and vehicle data in one smooth interface. However, adoption remains limited, and many automakers remain tight-lipped. Despite Apple’s announcement highlighting luxury Aston Martin’s exclusive rollout in North America, automakers like Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis have confirmed they will offer CarPlay Ultra in the near future. Hyundai’s spokesperson reassured fans that more updates will come soon, sparking excitement among tech-savvy drivers.
Other automakers are less forthcoming. Volvo, listed among early supporters back in 2022, has not confirmed ongoing plans for CarPlay Ultra. This hesitance reflects a cautious industry balancing innovation with control over their in-car software ecosystems. The original 2022 list of committed brands included big names such as Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault, and Volvo. Porsche teased its next-generation CarPlay instrument cluster in late 2023 but has been quiet since. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz seems reluctant to let Apple dominate its in-car experience, potentially stepping back from CarPlay Ultra integration.
As of now, many automakers have declined to share detailed plans or timelines. This silence might stem from ongoing negotiations with Apple or a strategic desire to develop proprietary systems. With Apple CarPlay Ultra poised to revolutionize connected driving, the landscape is rapidly evolving. Drivers eager for immersive, high-tech interfaces will want to watch closely for announcements from major manufacturers over the coming year.
For users searching for the latest updates on CarPlay Ultra compatibility, understanding which car brands are on board—and which remain undecided—is crucial. This knowledge helps buyers prioritize vehicles that support advanced infotainment and boost overall driving enjoyment. As automakers and Apple refine their partnerships, expect broader availability of CarPlay Ultra features and new innovations in the luxury and mainstream markets.
