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In the United States, Apple CarPlay is standard and free on all new Audi models—no subscription required[1]. The situation is different in Europe, where 2025 A3 buyers must pay to unlock CarPlay through Audi’s “Functions on Demand” subscription system[2]. This regional difference has sparked controversy, though Audi has confirmed that U.S. models retain the traditional no-charge approach for CarPlay[3]. Don’t confuse CarPlay with Audi connect services—those cloud-based features (navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot) do require paid subscriptions after trial periods expire[4].
US vs. Europe: Different Policies
Audi’s approach to CarPlay varies significantly by region. Here’s where things stand.
United States
Good news for American buyers. Apple CarPlay comes standard on all new Audi models for the 2024 and 2025 model years[1]. You won’t pay a subscription fee to use it.
Audi confirmed to Motor1 that the U.S. version of the 2025 A3 “will have the same offer structure for Function on Demand as the previous 2024 model year”[3]. That means adaptive cruise control and Virtual Cockpit remain the only subscription-eligible features in the U.S.—CarPlay stays free.
Europe
European A3 buyers face a different reality. The refreshed 2025 Audi A3 launched with several features locked behind Audi’s “Functions on Demand” subscription system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto[2].
The catch? European buyers can’t even subscribe to CarPlay unless they first upgrade to Audi’s MMI Navigation system, which grants access to the app store where subscriptions are purchased[2]. So you’re paying to access the ability to pay more.
| Region | CarPlay Status | Subscription Required? |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Standard on 2024+ models | No |
| Europe (A3) | Functions on Demand | Yes – plus MMI Nav upgrade |
| Europe (other models) | Varies by model/year | Check with dealer |
Regional policies may change; verify with your local Audi dealer[3]
Which Audi Models Have Apple CarPlay?
Standard Apple CarPlay is available across the Audi lineup for recent model years[1].
Models with CarPlay
Twenty-two Audi models currently support Apple CarPlay integration[1]:
- A Series: A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8
- S Series: S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8
- RS Series: RS5, RS6, RS7
- Q Series: Q2, Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8
- Electric: e-tron, e-tron Sportback, e-tron GT
Most Audis started offering CarPlay in 2017, with the A3, A4, A6, A7, and Q7 among the earliest models to include smartphone connectivity as standard[1].
Wired vs. Wireless CarPlay
Not all CarPlay is created equal[5]:
| Connection Type | Availability | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Wired CarPlay | 2017+ models with compatible infotainment | USB cable connection |
| Wireless CarPlay | 2020+ higher-trim models | Bluetooth + Wi-Fi pairing |
Wireless CarPlay connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, eliminating cable clutter[5]. But it’s typically reserved for higher trim levels. Some base models may require a wired USB connection even on newer vehicles.
What About Audi Connect Services?
Here’s where many owners get confused. CarPlay is free, but Audi connect is not[4].
Audi Connect Pricing (US)
| Service | Trial Period | Subscription Cost |
|---|---|---|
| NAV Plan | Included with warranty | $15/month or $150/year |
| Audi connect PLUS (Wi-Fi + Alexa) | 1 year free | $250/year |
| Online Pack | 1 year free | $160/year or $250 for 2 years |
Prices exclude taxes; subscribe via myAudi portal[4]
Audi connect includes cloud-based navigation, traffic updates, Amazon Alexa integration, and in-car Wi-Fi hotspot[4]. These features require active data connections to Audi’s servers—hence the subscription.
Apple CarPlay, by contrast, runs through your iPhone’s data connection. Audi just displays the interface; Apple handles the backend. That’s why CarPlay doesn’t require an Audi subscription.
CarPlay vs. Audi MMI: Do You Need Both?
Yes, and they serve different purposes[5].
What MMI Does
Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) is the native infotainment system. It controls:
- Climate settings
- Vehicle settings
- Built-in navigation (Google Earth maps with offline capability)
- Audio sources (USB, Bluetooth, satellite radio)
- Audi connect services
What CarPlay Does
Apple CarPlay mirrors select iPhone apps on your Audi’s screen[5]:
- Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze for navigation
- Apple Music, Spotify, podcasts
- Messages and phone calls via Siri
- Third-party apps (limited to Apple-approved selection)
You’ll switch between MMI and CarPlay depending on what you’re doing. Need to adjust the heated seats? MMI. Want to use Waze? CarPlay. BMW has a similar setup with iDrive and CarPlay coexisting.
How to Connect Apple CarPlay in Your Audi
Setup is straightforward once you know the steps[6].
Wired Connection
- Connect your iPhone to the USB port via Lightning or USB-C cable
- The MMI screen prompts you to enable CarPlay
- Select “Allow” on your iPhone
- CarPlay interface appears on the Audi display
Wireless Connection (2020+ Higher Trims)
- Pair your iPhone via Bluetooth as you normally would
- When prompted by MMI, select CarPlay as the connection type
- The car connects via Wi-Fi for data transfer
- CarPlay launches automatically when you enter the vehicle[6]
One quirk with Audi’s wireless CarPlay: some owners report that the system uses the car’s slower LTE connection instead of the phone’s mobile data when connected to the car’s Wi-Fi hotspot[7]. If you notice sluggish performance, try disconnecting from the car’s Wi-Fi while keeping CarPlay active.
Will Audi Start Charging for CarPlay in the US?
Possibly. The European A3 situation is a warning sign[2][3].
The Trend Toward Subscriptions
Automakers are increasingly looking for recurring revenue streams. BMW introduced subscription-based features in 2023. Mercedes-Benz charges for extra performance on EQ models. Audi’s European experiment with Functions on Demand suggests the company is testing the waters[3].
The concern? If European buyers pay for CarPlay subscriptions in significant numbers, Audi may expand the model to other markets[3].
For Now, You’re Safe
As of 2025–2026 model years, U.S. buyers don’t pay for CarPlay[3]. Enjoy it while it lasts. If you’re shopping for a new Audi, confirm CarPlay inclusion with your dealer—but expect it to be standard on any current model.
Key Takeaways
- Apple CarPlay is standard and free on all new Audi models in the United States for 2024 and 2025 model years—no subscription required[1].
- European 2025 A3 buyers must pay for CarPlay through Audi’s “Functions on Demand” subscription system, plus purchase an MMI Navigation upgrade to access the subscription store[2].
- Don’t confuse CarPlay with Audi connect services—navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot, and Alexa integration require paid subscriptions ($15–$250/year) after trial periods expire[4].
- Wireless CarPlay is available on higher-trim Audis from 2020 onward; base models may require a wired USB connection[5].
- The European subscription experiment is worth watching—if successful, Audi may expand the model to other markets in the future[3].
FAQs
Is Apple CarPlay free on Audi vehicles in the United States?
Does Audi charge a subscription for Apple CarPlay in Europe?
For the 2025 A3 in Europe, yes. CarPlay is part of Audi’s “Functions on Demand” subscription system, and buyers must first purchase the MMI Navigation upgrade to access the subscription store[2]. Other Audi models and regions vary—check with your local dealer.
Which Audi models have wireless Apple CarPlay?
Wireless CarPlay is available on select Audi models from 2020 onward, typically on higher trim levels[5]. Base models may only offer wired CarPlay via USB connection. Confirm wireless capability with your dealer or check the vehicle’s specifications before purchasing.
What’s the difference between Apple CarPlay and Audi connect?
When did Audi start including Apple CarPlay?
Most Audi models started offering Apple CarPlay in 2017, with the A3, A4, A6, A7, and Q7 among the first to include it as standard[1]. By the 2024 model year, standard CarPlay became available across all new Audi models.
References
- Carlinkit Factory. (2024). Which Audis Have Apple CarPlay: A Complete Guide. https://audi.carlinkitfactory.com/which-audis-have-apple-carplay-a-complete-guide/
- Quartz. (2025). Audi Wants Buyers to Pay for Basic Car Features. https://qz.com/audi-a3-buyers-must-subscribe-to-use-basic-car-features-1851333470
- CarsDirect. (2024). Is Audi Making Climate Control a Subscription? https://www.carsdirect.com/automotive-news/is-audi-making-climate-control-a-subscription
- Audi USA. (2025). NAV Plan | Audi connect. https://www.audiusa.com/en/inside-audi/innovation/audi-connect/audi-connect-nav/
- Alibaba Car Interior. (2026). How to Choose Audi MMI vs Apple CarPlay: Buying Guide. https://carinterior.alibaba.com/buyingguides/audi-mmi-vs-apple-carplay-key-differences-how-to-choose
- Motorpoint. (2023). What Are Audi MMI and Connect? Are They Worth It? https://www.motorpoint.co.uk/guides/what-are-audi-mmi-and-connect
- Reddit r/Audi. (2023). Audi MMI and Wireless CarPlay. https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/18sibj7/audi_mmi_and_wireless_carplay/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
