Automakers Who Still Skip Apple CarPlay – Who’s Missing Out?

Bottom line: A handful of brands still refuse Apple CarPlay, relying on their own infotainment systems instead.

Design & Looks

Even without CarPlay, many of these cars look sharp. Tesla’s minimalist glass roof and flush‑mounted screen give the Model 3 a futuristic vibe. Mazda’s 2020‑era Mazda3 still sports the brand‑signature Kodo design language – sleek, athletic, and very “Zoom‑Zoom.” Subaru’s Impreza keeps its rugged, boxy silhouette that appeals to families who need extra cargo space. Nissan’s Altima offers a more conventional sedan shape but adds a bold front grille that feels modern.

Performance & Mileage

Performance varies widely because the list mixes electric, gasoline and hybrid powertrains.

• Tesla Model 3 – Instant torque from an electric motor, roughly 141 MPGe combined.
• Mazda3 – 2.5‑liter Skyactiv‑I engine, about 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway.
• Subaru Impreza – 2.5‑liter Boxer engine with all‑wheel drive, around 28 MPG combined.
• Nissan Altima – 2.5‑liter engine, roughly 27 MPG combined.

Price & Rivals

Because they skip CarPlay, these models often compete on price or unique tech features.

• Tesla Model 3 starts near $40,000 and competes with the Chevy Bolt and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
• Mazda3 begins around $22,000, rivaling the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
• Subaru Impreza starts at about $20,000, going up against the Volkswagen Jetta and Kia Forte.
• Nissan Altima starts near $25,000, with the Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata as its main competition.

Quick Reference Table

Engine	Mileage	Price	Top Features
Electric motor (Tesla)	141 MPGe	$40,000	Autopilot, Over‑the‑Air updates
2.5 L I4 (Mazda)	28 / 36 MPG	$22,000	Skyactiv‑Tech, Premium interior
2.5 L Boxer (Subaru)	28 MPG combined	$20,000	Symmetrical AWD, EyeSight safety suite
2.5 L I4 (Nissan)	27 MPG combined	$25,000	ProPilot Assist, Zero‑Gravity seats

FAQ

Which brands still don’t offer Apple CarPlay?

As of 2024, Tesla, older Mazda (pre‑2018), older Subaru (pre‑2017) and some early‑generation Nissan models are the most notable.

Why would a buyer choose a car without CarPlay?

Some drivers prefer the brand’s native system – Tesla’s large touchscreen, Subaru’s integrated safety suite, or Mazda’s simple UI – and are willing to trade CarPlay for those features or a lower price.

Is it possible to add CarPlay to these vehicles later?

Aftermarket kits exist for many models, but they can be pricey and may void warranties. It’s best to check with a certified installer before buying.

Do you own a car that skips CarPlay? Share your experience in the comments below!

Source: Read Official News