New cars boast so many features that it’s easy to assume many bells and whistles are standard. But not every automaker can offer consumers everything they want. Budgetary constraints, supply chain issues, licensing deals, and other behind-the-scenes challenges can limit a car’s features. For example, Android Auto is notably missing from some Toyota models. So, does the 2023 Toyota GR Supra have Android Auto and other infotainment features many consumers want?

Why have consumers come to expect Android Auto in cars?

In today’s world of automotive technology, a few notable features stand out for their popularity and adoption across car brands. Surprisingly, these technologies are now standard, given that most automakers vigorously seek to build proprietary systems and avoid losing revenue to third-party licensing fees. But when billions of people organize their lives through their smartphones, it’s hard to avoid integrating their technology into cars.

Thus, you have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — two software applications that allow you to connect your smartphone to your car’s onboard computer. Using Android Auto, for example, lets you supplant your vehicle’s built-in navigation system with Google Maps or another navigation app of your choice. It lets you take calls using an interface similar to that of your smartphone. And it lets you use voice commands to control various functions. If you’re lost but have Android Auto enabled, say, “Hey, Google,” then “take me home.” And if your home address is established as your “Home” location in Google Maps, your touchscreen should display the directions to your house.

Using Android Auto can help keep drivers and passengers safe, especially when they use voice commands. You don’t need to divert attention from driving to fiddle with your phone on your touchscreen when you have it enabled. Music playlists, missed phone calls, texting, and more are all easily managed through Android Auto. And you can connect your phone to your car easily using a compatible USB cable or Bluetooth.

So, does the 2023 Toyota GR Supra have Android Auto?

Despite the inclusion of several new multimedia features in the 2023 Toyota GR Supra, Android Auto is not one. Its omission is odd, as many consumers expect a new vehicle to include compatible Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. And though the GR Supra is Apple CarPlay-compatible, it won’t work with Android phones without some serious workarounds.

Though Toyota may have its reasons (or excuses), many consumers will likely perceive this omission as a misstep. Some households have drivers with both Android phones and iPhones. And the inability for a user to easily access their playlists or the GR Supra’s functions could be enough for the household to consider another vehicle. And some prospective buyers looking for high-end vehicles could dismiss a car without Android Auto simply because it does not have all the bells and whistles.

The 2023 GR Supra isn’t technically a luxury vehicle. But it is a sports car that costs a pretty penny for a Toyota. Considering the price range — starting at $43,540 for the base model and climbing to $58,345 for the top trim — prospective buyers might expect all the bells and whistles.

What else does the new model offer?

Though Android Auto isn’t in the cards, the 2023 Toyota GR Supra boasts plenty of other features. The base-model 2.0 has a four-speaker sound system and 8.8-inch touchscreen, according to Toyota. Apple CarPlay doesn’t come standard in the base model, but you can buy a package that bundles the feature with a 12-speaker JBL audio system and several advanced driver-assistance systems.

If you upgrade to the 3.0 Premium AT trim, Apple CarPlay is included, as are the JBL sound system and a wireless charging tray. You won’t find multimedia packages that can further enhance the GR Supra at this trim level. But the standard amenities might be good enough. After all, if you’re considering a Supra, you’re likely more concerned about performance than infotainment. And with a premium sound system and iPhone connectivity, the other omissions might seem insignificant when you’re cruising on the highway.

Packing a 3.0-liter twin-scroll single-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, this GR Supra can rocket you from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. Toyota added an intelligent manual transmission system to enhance the vehicle’s sporty handling. And with 382 hp and a top track speed of 155 mph, this model will thrill on long stretches.