Does a Subaru Crosstrek have CarPlay?
Yes. Apple CarPlay is available on Subaru Crosstrek models, primarily starting with the 2019 model year, and it’s typically used through a wired USB connection. Wireless CarPlay is not commonly offered on the Crosstrek as of 2025.
Overview of CarPlay in the Crosstrek
CarPlay integrates your iPhone with the Crosstrek’s infotainment system, letting you run apps, use navigation, make calls, and listen to music through the vehicle’s display and controls. Subaru’s STARLINK system handles CarPlay in the Crosstrek, with availability varying by model year and trim as Subaru refreshed its infotainment hardware.
Availability by model year and trim:
- 2018 Crosstrek: No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; basic infotainment without smartphone integration.
- 2019 Crosstrek: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto introduced via STARLINK; CarPlay is available, usually via a wired USB connection, with trim-dependent availability.
- 2020–2023 Crosstrek: CarPlay and Android Auto widely available on most trims; two touchscreen sizes were offered (6.5-inch base and larger displays on higher trims); CarPlay typically wired, with limited or no wireless CarPlay in most configurations.
- 2024–2025 Crosstrek: CarPlay and Android Auto continue to be available on most trims; Subaru refreshed the infotainment options, but wired CarPlay remains the standard in most configurations, with wireless CarPlay still not broadly offered.
Bottom line: If you’re shopping for a Crosstrek with CarPlay, aim for a 2019 model year or newer and verify that your chosen trim includes the Starlink infotainment package with CarPlay support. For the latest models, CarPlay is commonly included, though you should confirm wired vs. wireless connectivity with the dealer.
How to connect CarPlay in a Crosstrek
To use CarPlay in a Crosstrek with a compatible iPhone, follow these steps:
- Update your iPhone to a recent iOS version and ensure CarPlay is enabled on your device.
- Connect your iPhone to the Crosstrek’s USB port using a certified USB cable.
- On the Crosstrek’s touchscreen, select CarPlay when prompted, or allow automatic connection on subsequent starts.
- Use the Apple CarPlay interface to access apps, maps, messages, music, and more, using the touchscreen or Siri.
Note: Wireless CarPlay is not common on most Crosstrek configurations as of 2025; using a wired connection is the typical setup. If you require wireless CarPlay, check the exact trim and infotainment package with the dealer for any optional configurations or updates.
Trims and generations that typically include CarPlay
Historically, CarPlay availability in the Crosstrek has followed the arrival of STARLINK infotainment updates:
- Early 2019 models with updated Starlink
- Most mid-to-high trims from 2020 onward
- Current-generation Crosstrek models generally include CarPlay as standard or widely available across trims
If you’re considering a used Crosstrek, check the specific year and trim’s infotainment features to confirm CarPlay availability, as configurations have varied by market and option packages.
Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek does support Apple CarPlay on most model years from 2019 forward, typically via a wired USB connection through Subaru’s STARLINK infotainment system. Availability can vary by trim and year, so when buying a used Crosstrek or selecting a new one, verify that CarPlay is included on the specific configuration you choose. Wireless CarPlay remains uncommon in the Crosstrek as of 2025, with wired CarPlay being the standard setup for most models.
