The 2023 Toyota GR Supra promises the features one expects of a sports car. From a powerful engine to aerodynamic design, the new Supra is a bridge between classic sports cars and modern high-performance vehicles. But supercars are infamous for eschewing tech features like Apple CarPlay for pure driving performance. So, does the 2023 Toyota GR Supra have Apple CarPlay?
How does Apple CarPlay work?
A natural continuation of a hands-free world, Apple CarPlay provides convenience and a safer drive. According to Apple, CarPlay aims to make your phone a part of your driving experience. Apple doubled down on this concept in recent years, adding the ability to start and unlock certain car models using your iPhone.
The system features everything you’d expect, from hands-free phone pickup, notifications, texting, and music control. Toyota and Apple keep the driver’s eyes on the road rather than on a knob or touchscreen. However, CarPlay goes far beyond a hands-free safety measure. With a growing set of features, it’s an all-encompassing hub controlled by the car’s touchscreen, joystick, knobs, or buttons.
By working with the car itself, CarPlay attempts to make every iPhone app work without distracting you from the road. Though the rise in infotainment systems also led to safety protocols that help drivers where reflexes can’t, a complicated system creates a new set of concerning distractions.
Apple CarPlay is available with newer iPhones, and cars equipped with it can add your favorite apps — from music to podcasts — and safety features to your vehicle’s display without the hassle of additional setup. Whether navigating with Google Maps or searching for a podcast for your road trip, Apple CarPlay helps you keep your hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road.
Does the 2023 Toyota GR Supra have Apple CarPlay?
Many sports cars are notorious for omitting tech features in favor of pure road and track performance. However, prospective 2023 Toyota GR Supra buyers will be happy to know wireless Apple CarPlay is an available option in the two lower trim levels (2.0 and 3.0) and a standard feature in the two top trims (3.0 Premium and A91-MT), according to Toyota. CarPlay works with the Supra’s 8.8-inch-screen infotainment system and uses the vehicle’s hardware to maximize CarPlay’s reliability.
Though that’s great news for iPhone users, Android device users are out of luck. Unfortunately, the 2023 GR Supra doesn’t have Android Auto connectivity. However, Android users can use limited features through Bluetooth pairing, but it won’t be as seamless as it would be with Android Auto
What else can you expect with the 2023 Toyota GR Supra?
The 2023 Toyota GR Supra boasts high-end hardware inside and out. You’ll find a 255-hp 2.0-liter twin-scroll single-turbo inline-four engine under the hood of the base model and a 382-hp 3.0-liter twin-scroll single-turbo inline-six in the higher trims. In addition, the base model comes with 18-inch cast-aluminum 10-spoke wheels with a two-tone finish, and the higher trims boast 19-inch Frozen Gunmetal Gray forged-aluminum wheels. A manual transmission is also available for those who want a true sports car experience.
Today’s sports cars are unpredictable when it comes to tech features. Typically, enthusiasts prefer power and performance to bells and whistles. However, the 2023 GR Supra offers plenty of amenities to keep drivers connected and entertained. That includes a 500-watt, 12-speaker JBL Surround Sound system (optional in the lower trims and standard in the higher ones) and an 8.8-inch display screen or an 8.8-inch touchscreen featuring AM/FM, SiriusXM, digital audio, and USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims also come standard with voice recognition, but buyers can pay extra to add it to the lower trims.
The 2023 Toyota GR Supra is a sports car through and through, but it will also appeal to drivers — especially Apple CarPlay users — who like to stay connected.
RELATED: Beyond the RAV4, Supra, and GR86, Toyota Fails to Impress Car and Driver Editors
