Does Toyota have something like Onstar?
Yes. Toyota offers a built-in telematics and connected-services platform that serves similar purposes to GM's OnStar, though under Toyota's own branding and ecosystem.
Toyota's connected-services suite is branded under Toyota Connected and includes Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, and Drive Connect. These services provide emergency assistance, vehicle tracking, remote entry, maintenance alerts, and real-time navigation features, though exact features and availability vary by model, year, and market.
What Toyota's connected services include
These core features map to the kinds of support OnStar provides, with each service focusing on safety, convenience, or vehicle health.
- Safety Connect: 24/7 emergency assistance, automatic crash notification, SOS dialing with a live operator, and stolen-vehicle locator and roadside assistance options.
- Remote Connect: Remote locking/unlocking, vehicle location history, and, where available, remote start via the Toyota app.
- Service Connect: Vehicle health monitoring, maintenance reminders, and service scheduling notifications that can be sent to dealers or the owner's app.
- Drive Connect: Real-time navigation with cloud-based features, live traffic and weather information, and, in supported markets, Google built-in integration.
Availability and pricing vary by model year, trim, market, and subscription status. Some features may be included during a trial period with purchase, with ongoing access requiring a paid plan.
Branding and integration differences
OnStar operates as GM's dedicated telematics network with its own call-center operations, while Toyota's system relies on the Toyota Connected umbrella, bringing together Safety Connect, Remote Connect, Service Connect, Drive Connect, and smartphone app integration. The user experience and support network differ by automaker, but the goal is the same: quick access to help, vehicle data, and remote controls when needed.
How Toyota's system compares with OnStar
Both programs aim to keep drivers safe and connected, but there are practical differences in coverage, pricing, and ecosystem integration.
- Brand and network: OnStar uses GM's in-house support network; Toyota uses its own connected-services infrastructure with partnerships and the Toyota App.
- Coverage and features: Emergency response, stolen-vehicle locator, and roadside assistance are common to both; delivery of navigation, diagnostics, and remote capabilities can vary by model and region.
- Costs: Both offer a period of complimentary service; ongoing access generally requires a subscription, with terms governed by automaker and region.
If you're choosing between vehicles, consider which features you value most (emergency support, remote access, maintenance alerts, or navigation) and check the exact terms for your model-year and country.
Access, availability, and how to manage
Access to Toyota's connected services is typically via the car's multimedia system and the Toyota app. Here is how customers generally use them.
- In-car access: Use the built-in infotainment interface to access Safety Connect and Drive Connect options where supported.
- Smartphone control: The Toyota app lets you locate your vehicle, lock/unlock doors, start the engine remotely where allowed, and view maintenance notifications.
- Subscriptions: Manage plans, renewals, and feature availability through the Toyota app or by contacting a dealer. Availability and pricing depend on region and model.
Newer Toyota models and trims typically include a trial period for Safety Connect and other services. After the trial ends, ongoing access may require a paid subscription.
Model coverage and where to check
Not every Toyota model or market offers the entire suite of connected services. Availability has expanded in the US, Europe, and other regions with newer model years, and some features are tied to specific trims or packages.
- Newer vehicles: Most recent models often include at least Safety Connect capabilities and some form of Drive Connect or Remote Connect depending on the trim and market.
- Regions: North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific markets have different feature sets and pricing structures.
If you want exact details for a specific model and year, check Toyota's official website for your country or consult your local Toyota dealer.
Summary
Toyota offers a robust set of connected services that provide emergency help, remote vehicle control, maintenance insights, and real-time navigation—functions closely aligned with OnStar. While the underlying network, branding, and pricing differ, the core value proposition remains: keep drivers safer and more connected. Prospective buyers should verify the exact feature list, trial terms, and subscription costs for their model-year and market to understand the long-term value of Toyota's connected ecosystem.
