A whopping 370,000 Mazda owners will be able to upgrade their cars to include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The bad news is that the update is going to cost you almost $500 to do so, for what is basically a software upgrade.
Mazda which until now has offered its own MZD connectivity suite across the range is the first car maker to offer a retrospective upgrade of this kind to what is fast becoming the industry standard.
All Mazda customers with a model with the MZD Connect infotainment system, first introduced to the Australian market in early 2014, will be able to purchase the upgrade kit for $494.98 (recommended fitted price).
Customers interested in purchasing the kit are invited to visit their nearest Mazda dealer, where a straightforward hardware and software retrofit process will be completed in several hours.
Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow driver or passenger to connect their mobile device to the in-car display screen.
With their smart phone connected, they will be able to use steering wheel controls or voice activated commands to send and receive calls and messages, listen to music and follow map directions – all without taking their eyes off the road.
Mazda has also confirmed that all future models will also support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, promising seamless incorporation into the MZD Connect infotainment system.
This follows the successful 2018 launch of the tech in Mazda’s BT-50 Ute and the latest upgrade of its seven-seat CX-9.
“The ability to fully integrate this technology into our existing offering will give Australians another reason to choose Mazda, but we are especially happy that it is something we can offer to our existing community of customers,” Managing Director of Mazda Australia, Vinesh Bhindi, said.
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