Do any new cars still have a CD player?
CD players in new cars are rare, but not entirely extinct. A small handful of models still ship with a built-in CD drive, often only on base trims or in specific regional markets. For most buyers, CDs are no longer part of standard equipment.
The question reflects a broader shift in automotive entertainment: as streaming, smartphones, and digital media dominate, manufacturers have prioritized wireless connectivity, Bluetooth audio, and integration with CarPlay/Android Auto. This article explains the current landscape as of 2025, why the trend happened, where a CD player might still appear, and how shoppers can navigate the options.
Current landscape in 2025
The vast majority of new cars sold in 2025 no longer include a built-in CD player. Instead, they emphasize digital audio sources, including Bluetooth streaming, USB connections, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some automakers continue to offer a CD player in very small, base-trim configurations or in certain regional markets, but this is increasingly rare and not guaranteed from year to year.
Why CD players have faded
CD players have largely fallen out of favor for three reasons: cost, space, and consumer behavior. Physical media adds hardware and weight, and many buyers prefer cloud-based or device-based music libraries that are instantly accessible via streaming. In-car infotainment systems also streamline updates and compatibility with newer audio standards, further reducing the perceived need for a built-in CD drive.
Regional and pricing variations
In some markets outside the United States, or in very entry-level configurations, a car might still advertise a CD player as part of the standard or optional equipment. However, even within those markets, the presence of a CD drive can change with trim levels, model year changes, or supplier decisions. Prospective buyers should verify exact specs for their region and model year.
Where a CD player might still appear
If a CD player is important to you, there are a few practical avenues to explore. First, check the official specifications for the exact vehicle and trim you’re considering—the term “CD player” or “compact disc” may appear in the interior or audio system descriptions. Second, look at base trims or regional models where manufacturers sometimes retain legacy hardware. Third, consider purchasing a model year that is still circulating with older feature sets, or consult dealers about current stock that may still include a CD drive.
What to consider if you need CD playback
Before deciding, weigh whether you truly need a factory CD player or if an alternative setup could meet your needs. USB drives or portable CD players with Bluetooth or auxiliary outputs offer a compatible workaround. If your CD library is large or you rely on physical discs, an aftermarket head unit that includes a CD player could also be integrated into some vehicles, though this can affect warranty and compatibility with existing dashboards.
Shopping tips
If you’re shopping for a car and want to verify whether a CD player is present, use the checklist below. It helps ensure you don’t rely on marketing language that omits the fine print.
- Check the official brochure or the manufacturer’s site for explicit mentions of “CD player” or “compact disc” in the interior/audio specifications.
- Review the equipment list for the specific trim and model year you’re considering; CDs may appear only on certain trims or regions.
- Ask the dealership to confirm the exact features on the exact vehicle you’ll drive away with, and request a window sticker or build sheet to verify.
Because CD players are uncommon in 2025, it’s especially important to double-check the exact configuration for the exact car you’re considering. A model’s marketing materials may highlight modern features, while omitting that a CD drive is not included in your particular trim.
Summary
In the current market, built-in CD players are increasingly rare in new cars. Most models rely on digital media, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. If a CD player is essential, you’ll likely need to inspect base trims, regional specifications, or consider older model years, an aftermarket solution, or a vehicle with a legacy setup. Shoppers should verify the exact specifications for their chosen trim and year to avoid surprises at delivery.
How can I listen to CDs in my car with no CD player?
USB CD Player: If your car's radio has a USB port, you can connect a USB CD player directly to it. This allows you to play CDs through your car's audio system. Simply purchase a USB CD player compatible with car radios, plug it into the USB port, and use the radio controls to play, pause, and switch songs.
Do CD players still come in new cars?
Even more surprising is the fact that the Outback isn't the only new car, or Subaru, that comes standard with a CD player today. Both the 2025 Lexus IS sedan and RC coupe come with a CD player mounted on the dashboard.
What new cars still have a CD player?
Yes, several new cars still have CD players, though they are becoming increasingly rare and are often available only on specific trims or as an optional feature. Notable models include the 2025 Subaru Outback Touring (where it's standard or an accessory) and the 2025 Lexus IS and RC, which offer CD players. Other models from 2024, like the Subaru Forester and Lexus LC 500, also came with them.
Subaru
- 2025 Outback Touring: Comes with a CD player, and it can also be added as an accessory for the 2025 model year.
- 2025 WRX: The CD player is an available option on this model.
- Forester and Crosstrek: These models have featured CD players in recent years.
Lexus
- 2025 IS and RC: These models continue to offer a CD player.
- IS300 and IS350: These models also have CD players.
- LC 500: This model also offered a CD player in 2024.
Other models
- Nissan Maxima SV: This model included a CD player in 2024.
- Cadillac Escalade: This model also offered a CD player in 2024.
- Toyota Highlander: This model included a CD player in 2024.
- Mazda 6: This model has featured a CD player.
- 2024 Nissan Murano: This was one of the last models thought to have a factory-installed CD player.
Important note
- Check before you buy: CD players are not a standard feature on all versions of these models. It is essential to check with the dealership to confirm that the specific trim you are interested in includes a CD player.
Do any 2025 cars come with a CD player?
No, most 2025 cars do not have CD players, but they are still available as standard features on a few specific models, primarily the 2025 Subaru Outback and Legacy Touring/Touring XT trims and the 2025 Lexus IS and RC. Subaru also offers CD players as an optional accessory on some other models, such as the WRX.
- Subaru: The 2025 Outback and Legacy Touring/Touring XT models come with a standard CD player. The WRX also offers it as an option.
- Lexus: The 2025 IS sedan and RC coupe still include a CD player as a standard feature.
