For iPhone users, Apple CarPlay is now a much-coveted feature for a truly modern driving experience. The Apple CarPlay system lets drivers connect with their phones while driving. You can take calls, send voice-to-text messages, and use navigation apps — safely, securely, and seamlessly. 

And when it comes to technology, Toyota is one car company that doesn’t hold back. The Toyota RAV4 is packed with interior infotainment and entertainment systems that rely on the latest new technologies, and is an all-around best-selling vehicle. But does the RAV4 include Apple CarPlay in its lineup of interior entertainment systems?

Does the Toyota RAV4 have Apple CarPlay? 

The answer is simple enough. Yes, the Toyota RAV4 does have Apple CarPlay. 

What is Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay lets you use your iPhone applications directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system. You can use any of your regular third-party navigational apps, such as Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps. Apple CarPlay then mirrors what you see on your phone’s screen right onto the vehicle’s screen. As we recently wrote on Apple CarPlay, “since the app is being used, there’s no need to have native navigation software in the vehicle, and the maps stay up to date.” 

Apple CarPlay also assists in driver safety and maximizing the driver experience since it supports a hands-free ride. You can place phone calls through Apple CarPlay, and the device will also read text messages out loud to you. You can then write a response by verbally speaking your message and letting the system translate what you’re saying into a text. 

What’s really fascinating and attractive about Apple CarPlay (especially for devoted Apple users) is that all the applications appear on the vehicle’s touchscreen with icons similar to what you see on your iPhone. All you need to do is connect your phone to the car via an approved device cable (in this case, a Lightning cable) plugged into the USB media port. For audio, you simply have to connect your Bluetooth function. Apple CarPlay can then be controlled with the touchscreen native to the vehicle or with buttons if there’s a touches display. You can also use Siri to do almost anything with a touch of a button. 

Some of the other applications that are supported on Apple CarPlay include Music, Podcasts, Calendar, Audible, Pandora, Slacker Radio, and SiriusXM Radio.

What are the other multimedia entertainment options available in the Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 also includes plenty of other multimedia entertainment options. Some of the audio options included in the Toyota RAV4 are a 7-inch touch-screen, AM/FM, six speakers, USB media port (plus four additional USB charge ports on XLE and XLE Premium models), hands-free phone capability, advanced voice recognition, and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology. 

The Toyota RAV4 is also Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatible. The RAV4 also supports other Connected Services, such as Safety Connect and Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2 GB. You can visit toyota.com/connected-services for more details on Connected Services.

What are the other tech options available in the Toyota RAV4?

The Toyota RAV4 also includes plenty of other tech features that make for an even more streamlined driver experience. Some of these features are an integrated backup camera with projected path technology; a remote keyless entry system with lock, unlock, and panic functions, as well as remote illuminated entry; a urethane tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel with controls for audio, multi-information display, and Bluetooth hands-free phone and voice-command; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Lane Departure Alert; and Lane Tracing Assist. 

Additionally, the Toyota RAV4 comes with power windows with auto up/down and jam protection in all positions and power door locks with shift-linked automatic lock/unlock features. The overhead console includes map lights and a Safety Connect button. 

For any car owner seeking a truly modern driving experience, the Toyota RAV4 is a top-notch pick due to its extensive array of high-tech entertainment and safety options.