What year did Lexus NX get Apple CarPlay?
The Lexus NX gained Apple CarPlay starting with the 2019 model year.
As part of a broader shift toward smartphone integration, Lexus added CarPlay to the NX in 2019, with variations by market and trim. Apple CarPlay lets iPhone users mirror apps, maps, messages, and more on the NX’s display, typically via a USB connection.
Timeline of Apple CarPlay on the Lexus NX
Below is a concise timeline highlighting when CarPlay became available on the NX and how it evolved across model years.
- 2015–2018 NX: No Apple CarPlay support.
- 2019 model year NX and later: Apple CarPlay introduced, initially via a USB connection; availability varies by market and trim.
In practice, NX models from 2019 onward generally offer CarPlay, though exact features and availability can differ by region and dealership configuration.
Using CarPlay in the Lexus NX
If you own a 2019+ NX, here’s how CarPlay typically works and how to set it up.
- Connect your iPhone to the NX via USB; ensure your iPhone trusts the vehicle and that CarPlay is enabled on the phone.
- On the NX screen, select CarPlay and use the iPhone apps, maps, and messages through the car’s display or steering wheel controls.
- To exit CarPlay, disconnect the iPhone or switch back to the NX’s native infotainment interface; wireless CarPlay may be available on some models or software updates.
Note: Wireless CarPlay has appeared on some newer Lexus models or later updates, but wired CarPlay remains the standard setup for many NX versions. Always verify with your local dealer for your exact build and software version.
Summary
The Lexus NX introduced Apple CarPlay with the 2019 model year, marking a turning point for in-car smartphone integration in the NX lineup. If you own a 2019 or newer NX, CarPlay is generally available, though exact availability and methods (wired vs. wireless) can vary by market, trim, and software updates. For pre-2019 NX models, CarPlay is not supported.
