Hi there! I'm a seasoned automotive journalist with years of experience reviewing cars and keeping my finger on the pulse of the latest tech trends. Apple CarPlay was a game-changer when it debuted, and 2017 saw a surge in its availability. Let's dive into the car models that offered this groundbreaking feature back then.
Apple CarPlay Availability in 2017Pinpointing every single car model that offered Apple CarPlay in 2017 can be tricky because availability often varied by trim level, region, or optional packages. However, I can certainly highlight some prominent manufacturers and models where you were most likely to find CarPlay integration.
**General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac):** GM was a front-runner in adopting CarPlay. You could find it on many 2017 models equipped with their MyLink infotainment system.
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Chevrolet: Cruze, Camaro, Malibu, Volt, Equinox, Traverse, Tahoe, Suburban
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Buick: Encore, Regal, LaCrosse, Envision, Enclave
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GMC: Canyon, Sierra, Terrain, Acadia, Yukon
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Cadillac: ATS, CTS, XT5, Escalade
Ford: Ford was also an early adopter of both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Their SYNC 3 infotainment system was the gateway to these features.
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Ford: Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, Escape, Edge, Explorer, Expedition, F-150
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Lincoln: MKZ, Continental, MKC, MKX, Navigator
Other Notable Manufacturers:*
Volkswagen: Many 2017 Volkswagen models with the Composition Media or Discover Media systems supported CarPlay. Look at the Golf, Jetta, Passat, Tiguan, and Atlas.
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Honda: CarPlay started appearing in more mainstream Honda models in 2017. Check the Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot, and Odyssey.
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Hyundai: Hyundai was gradually rolling out CarPlay, particularly on models with their Blue Link infotainment. Consider the Elantra, Sonata, Tucson, and Santa Fe.
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Kia: Similar to Hyundai, Kia's UVO system offered CarPlay on select trims. Look at the Forte, Optima, Sorento, and Sportage.
Premium Brands: By 2017, luxury carmakers were integrating CarPlay more broadly, though it still might have been an option on some base models:
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Audi: A3, A4, A6, Q3, Q5, Q7
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BMW: 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, X1, X3, X5
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Mercedes-Benz: C-Class, E-Class, GLC, GLE
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Volvo: S60, V60, XC60, XC90
Important Notes:*
Trim Levels: CarPlay was often standard on higher trim levels and optional on lower trims, sometimes bundled with larger infotainment screens or navigation packages.
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Regional Differences: Car features and availability can change from one region to another, so a 2017 model sold in Europe might have different options than its North American counterpart.
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Used Car Purchases: If you're buying a used 2017 model, don't just rely on the car's age; always double-check the infotainment system to confirm CarPlay is present.
Let me know if you have any specific car models in mind, and I'll do my best to pinpoint whether CarPlay was an option back in 2017!
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