While the automotive sector has become significantly more advanced in recent years, it’s taken some manufacturers some time to get the ball rolling when it comes to infotainment systems that work quickly and seamlessly for Android users.
If you’re an Android user, finding the right new car that has a fast, user-friendly, and attractive Android Auto interface is a top priority, which is exactly what we’re going to unpack today.
Join us as we take a look at the best cars with Android Auto in Australia.
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Request a quoteWhat is Android Auto?
Android Auto is effectively a mobile application that has been developed by Google, the developer of the Android operating system.
Android Auto makes all the navigation, phone calls, messaging, live search, and entertainment applications you’d find on your phone accessible through your car’s display, otherwise known as the infotainment system.
The benefits of Android Auto in your car include hands-free operation of common functions, allowing you to keep your hands and eyes on the wheel, and reducing potential distractions as you drive.
How Does Android Auto Work in Cars?
Android Auto pairs your smartphone with the software installed on your vehicle’s infotainment system, either wirelessly through a Wi-Fi signal, or through a physical connection via a USB cable.
Once it’s connected, your car’s infotainment system effectively becomes a display of your smartphone, where you can operate navigation apps, choose your music, reply to a friend’s message or even search the web as you drive.
Best Cars With Android Auto in Australia
While we’re mentioning specific models in our list, we’re only going to list manufacturers that have rolled-out Android Auto support across their full range of vehicles.
Don’t be disappointed if your chosen model is not mentioned, just keep an eye out for the manufacturers listed, because they’ve made our list for offering Android Auto support across their full lineup.
Toyota HiLux
Toyota has rolled out Android Auto support across its range, which includes the entry-level HiLux Workmate.
The base model HiLux receives an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment unit fitted with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is paired with a two-speaker sound system and upgrades to four, six and nine-speakers the higher up the range you go.
Mazda CX-5
One of Australia’s favourite midsize family SUVs, the Mazda CX-5 comes fitted with an 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.0-inch infotainment system that offers DAB+ digital radio atop Android Auto support in the entry-level CX-5 Maxx.
Stepping higher into the range adds a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display with the same Android Auto support.
Ford Ranger
Both the current and next-generation of Ford Ranger utes come fitted with an infotainment system with Android Auto connectivity as standard.
The current generation receives an 8.0-inch display as standard in the entry-level Ranger XL, while the latest generation Ranger XL features a 10.1-inch portrait-style infotainment display; both of which support Android Auto.
Hyundai i30
Both the Hyundai i30 hatchback and sedan receive a digital instrument cluster and 8.0-inch infotainment system that offer wireless Android Auto connectivity for added convenience.
The base i30 receives a six-speaker sound system, while the i30 Elite range offers a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system with DAB+ digital radio and an upgraded seven-speaker sound system.
Subaru XV
Subaru’s adventurous SUV comes fitted with a 7.0-inch infotainment system as standard which offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support in the entry-level XV 2.0i, while upgrading to the 2.0i-L adds a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen display.
Mitsubishi Triton
The Mitsubishi Triton range has been updated with Android Auto support in recent years, with the exception of the entry-level GLX cab chassis. All other Triton variants from the GLX up receive a 7.0-inch infotainment system with wired Android Auto and DAB+ digital radio.
Kia Stonic
Kia’s affordable little compact SUV is one of the best value propositions offering Android Auto support, with the entry-level Stonic S receiving an 8.0-inch infotainment system fitted with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
Isuzu D-MAX
Isuzu’s full D-MAX range receives Android Auto support, including the all-new base model which is equipped with a 7.0-inch display with wired Android Auto connectivity.
Moving up the range to the D-MAX LS-U adds a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display, while the flagship receives an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.
Nissan Navara
Nissan’s Navara workhorse offers Android Auto support from the base model up, with the entry-level Navara SL receiving an 8.0-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto support all the way through to the Navara Pro-4X flagship.
Volvo XC40
Volvo’s stylish compact SUV comes fitted with a large 9.0-inch touchscreen display fitted with Android Auto support as standard, atop DAB+ digital radio and sat-nav in the T4 Momentum base model, while the flagship receives an upgraded Harmon Kardon premium sound system.
What Cars Have Built-in Android Auto?
The list of cars that have Android Auto support, according to the latest data from Google includes Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chevrolet, Citroen, Ferrari, Fiat, Ford, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Lexus, Mahindra, Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Porsche, RAM, Renault, SEAT, Skoda, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen & Volvo.
Is Android Auto Available in Australia?
Android Auto is available in a growing number of 46 markets around the globe, including Australia.
While Android Auto is available in the Australian market, it’s important to make sure that the manufacturer you’re looking at has implemented Android Auto connectivity into their infotainment system, with some older models missing out on certain upgrades.
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