Hyundai Sonata Apple CarPlay update coming soon (2015) & Android Auto Hybrid confusion

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When Hyundai launched the 2015 Sonata they created a lot of tech buzz because they said that the model with the tech/navigation package would get updates to Android and Apple CarPlay. The Android Auto update was released earlier this year. We can tell you that we have word from a source familiar with the matter, that Hyundai will be making an announcement regarding Apple CarPlay within the next few weeks, we suspect it will an update to Apple CarPlay, as promised.

The original news release stated “By integrating CarPlay into our core-volume Sonata, Hyundai is one of the first volume manufacturers to bring CarPlay to market and it will be available on 2015 Sonatas equipped with navigation later in the 2015 model year.” We have seen CarPlay working in Hyundai Sonatas at the 2014 LA Auto Show as well as CES 2015. However, GM was the first to launch CarPlay across its vehicles.

It is a little past the original estimate for deployment but the update to Apple CarPlay is coming sooner than later.

Previously, when Hyundai released the update for Android Auto it was first available by going to the dealer for the update. Later on, the update was available online for download to a computer than transferred to the Sonata via a USB drive. We suspected the update to CarPlay will be done in a similar way.

For CarPlay to work properly it requires a Lightning connector and an iPhone with iOS 8 or greater.

Hyundai plans to no longer offer CD players in its 2016 model year vehicles and instead only offer digital music options.

There is another issue that we are investigating for a reader. There has been great confusion over if there will be Android Auto or CarPlay for the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. An owner of 2016 Hyundai Hybrid has been trying to find out if and when his Sonata Hybrid will be updated to Android Auto. He has contacted customer support and tried to contact the public relations staff of Hyundai. When we contacted Hyundai we were told that they are investigating the matter. Some articles have Hyundai PR people stating that Hyundai Sonata Hybrids will have Android Auto and CarPlay. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid owner is a keen Android fan and wants the navigation features of Google Maps.

There are rumors that the reason Hyundai does not have Android Auto for the 2016 Hybrid Sonata is because Google has not given them the software.

There is usually a problem switching out head units/stereos with cars that have electric functions. For instance if you have a basic radio in a Nissan Leaf without the electric CarWings app, you can replace the radio. Electric cars often have too many proprietary programs running to aftermarket makers such as Pioneer or Dual to accommodate. We will keep you posted when we find out more about the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Android Auto confusion.

If you are wondering which cars are destined for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay we have a dedicated list.

12 thoughts on “Hyundai Sonata Apple CarPlay update coming soon (2015) & Android Auto Hybrid confusion”

  1. I’m about to buy an Hybrid Sonata Limited, and just found out this! I have an appointment to do the transaction this saturday (3 days from now)!

    Are there any updates? My dealer know nothing (and he’s trying to sell me the car so he is really investigating this for me I think).

    I sent en email to Hyundai but I don’t know if I should expect any response

    • I spoke with Hyundai in January. Whatever your dealer promises have him put it writing. If he says the update to CarPlay will be free for you, have him/her write in the contract. Is it a 2015 or 2016 model year? If is 2015, you probably won’t be able to get the Android Auto or CarPlay update…

        • Last reply from hyundai, what do you think? Is it safe to but the car now?

          Thank you for your prompt response to Hyundai Motor America. We appreciate you giving us the opportunity to continue assisting you with your inquiry regarding if Android Auto would come equipped on the 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicle’s.

          Upon further research, the Sonata Hybrid vehicle’s that are equipped with the display audio or navigation head unit will have the Android Auto pre-installed. We hope this information has addressed your questions and we apologize for any confusion this has caused.

          For updates about Android Auto, we recommend for you to visit (www.HyundaiUSA.com). The website will have the most up to date information available on future updates to Android Auto, vehicle compatibility, and update download information once it becomes available.

          If you have any additional questions or concerns that we can assist with, please reach out to us again. We can be reached by e-mail (ConsumerAffairs@HMAUSA.com) or by calling our toll-free customer service number (800) 633-5151.

          Hyundai Customer Connect Center Hours of Operation

          Monday – Friday: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM Pacific Time
          Saturday – Sunday: 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific Time

          We have documented your comments and created a case for your feedback. Case number 8707685 can be referenced if we can provide further assistance.

          Thank you for contacting Hyundai Motor America.

          • I would bring an compatible Android Phone with me to the dealer and plug it in to see if Android Auto works if it is deal breaker for you.

  3. Thank you for following up on my issue. HMAUSA has yet to confirm or deny whether or not they actually intend on delivering on their PR statement promise that Android Auto will be made available for the 2016 Sonata Hybrid by the end of the 2015 year. They have however managed to make revisions to language on their web site, distancing themselves from doing so. Google remains unresponsive on the issue. My sincere hope is that every 2016 and newer Sonata Hybrid owner will reach out to HMAUSA or their PR exec, Jim Trainor, and express their strong desire to see HMAUSA follow through and deliver both Android Auto and Apple Carplay, as promised in their May 2015 press release for the 2016 Sonata Hybrid models.

  4. Looking bad? How about false advertising and a class action law suit? I buy a car with expectations and no performance on the part of the manufacturer

    • This will not be the first class action lawsuit against Hyundai there is one for the Blue Link service. After being inactive for a year, the system self destructs and has to be re-installed for $500.00.

  5. This news release clearly says the 2016 Sonata Hybrid will have AA and Carplay, but the end of the year is approaching fast and I haven’t gotten any good update from Hyundai, please advise once you know more:

    • Although we can’t say who told us the update is coming, it is a very reliable source, someone who works at Hyundai. We will let you know the minute it comes available. To be the first to get the update, be prepared to go to your local Hyundai dealer. It might help if you have a good relationship with your dealership, to ask them if they know when it is coming. On Monday, we were told the next few weeks. They would look really bad if they waited to announce the update until 2016.

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