What year did Lexus LS get Apple CarPlay?
The Lexus LS first gained Apple CarPlay with the 2019 model year, marking the flagship sedan’s move toward modern smartphone integration.
The question concerns when the LS lineup began offering Apple CarPlay and how the rollout unfolded across generations and trims. Below is a concise timeline and the current status as of 2024.
Timeline of Apple CarPlay on the Lexus LS
In 2019, Lexus updated the LS’s infotainment system to include Apple CarPlay. This change brought the flagship LS in line with competing luxury sedans that already offered CarPlay and Android Auto, often replacing the older Enform setup in many markets. Availability could vary by region and trim, with some models requiring an infotainment update or new hardware.
Notes by year and market
Subsequent model years gradually expanded CarPlay availability across more LS trims and markets, and some regions began to include Android Auto as well. For many buyers, CarPlay remained wired in earlier years, with wireless CarPlay arriving in select markets on later models.
Current status as of 2024/2025
Today, Apple CarPlay is available on most Lexus LS models, typically via the vehicle’s infotainment system. Wireless CarPlay is offered in some markets for newer LS versions, while others continue to rely on wired connections.
Summary
Apple CarPlay arrived on the Lexus LS with the 2019 model year and has since become a common feature across the lineup, with regional and trim variations for wireless capabilities. If you’re considering a used LS, confirm CarPlay availability for the exact year and trim to ensure compatibility.
What year did Lexus come out with Apple CarPlay?
The Lexus IS received Apple CarPlay starting with the 2021 model year, when it became a standard feature. While Lexus offered a retrofit for some 2017-2020 IS models, the 2021 model year was the first to include it from the factory.
- 2021 and newer models: Apple CarPlay is a standard feature on all 2021 IS models.
- 2017-2020 models: These earlier models did not come with Apple CarPlay from the factory, but aftermarket conversion kits are available through companies like GTA Car Kits, Hamilton Motor Company, and Mozart Electronics. Some sources mention a retrofit is available for certain 2017-2019 models, according to Reddit users.
Does the 2019 Lexus LS 500 have Apple CarPlay?
Yes, the 2019 Lexus LS 500 comes standard with Apple CarPlay. It was a new addition for the 2019 model year, allowing drivers to connect their iPhone for access to familiar apps like maps, music, and calling through the car's 12.3-inch dashboard display.
You can watch this video to see how Apple CarPlay works in the 2019 Lexus LS 500: 54sLexus of Las VegasYouTube · Feb 28, 2019
- Standard feature: Apple CarPlay is a standard feature for all 2019 LS 500 models, not an optional extra.
- Display: The interface is integrated into the vehicle's 12.3-inch central display screen.
- Connectivity: You can connect your iPhone via a USB cable for wired access or, depending on the system, wirelessly.
- Voice commands: You can use Siri for voice commands by pressing and holding the voice command button on the steering wheel, or by saying "Hey Siri" if your iPhone settings allow it.
Can I use Apple CarPlay on my LS?
If you're an L or P1 licence holder and use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto while driving, you're treated the same as if you were using your phone directly. The penalty is $1,161 and 4 demerit points. For P2 licence holders, and P1 licence holders over 25, hands-free mobile phone use is allowed.
What year does Lexus LS have CarPlay?
Lexus LS Compatibility
This Apple CarPlay / Android Auto integration system is compatible with all 2013-2022 Lexus LS vehicles that are equipped with the factory installed NON-TOUCHSCREEN multimedia screen.
