As some of you know, Android Auto (along with Apple Carplay) has been available as a retrofit option in Australia/New Zealand. I recently reached out to Lexus New Zealand asking about whether or not the same Android Auto retrofit was available in the US. Tagged their response. I've also reached out to Lexus NA in the past but they had much less to say.


When asked how we can get the attention of leadership...

 

my understanding is android auto only works on '21 because the hardware is different, but i could be wrong.
i did hear apple carplay could be retrofitted though.

 

Yes - I'm afraid that 2018 - 2020 LC models cannot be retrofitted with Android Auto, because we have a Gen 10 head unit versus the newer Gen 11 units in the 2021's. Something having to do with the hardware in our Gen 10's doesn't allow us to retrofit to Android Auto. I've been wanting AA on my LC for quite some time, but once I discovered that, I had to accept it for what it was. The other thing you might want to find out, is if we can swap out our Gen 10 units for Gen 11 units. I could imagine that it would be difficult, since all of the functions in the vehicle are connected to it as well - so it might be a little more work (I'm not sure tho).

 

guanche2k9, i imagine a swapout is possible but likely VERY expensive. since i haven't switched over to an iphone (yet), that's one reason i decided i wanted to pay the extra to get the '21...
but honestly, the car is so much fun to drive, i don't care much about the lame infotainment and i don't care if i get lost.

 

Thanks for the replies all. What I'm curious about is why only the Australian LC's (even 2018's) have the ability to upgrade. I assume that means they were given the Gen 11 units. It's true that these cars are very fun to drive but very disappointing in this aspect given that mine is an '18 model and Android has been my OS of choice for years.

 

Those letters above from Lexus NZ are very very vague and do not confirm to me at least that '18-'20 LCs can get AA.

 

Maybe they're referring to this 3rd party option.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lc-...ry-it-yet.html

a former LS460 owner did this upgrade to get Carplay and liked it.

 

No - they've confirmed it in Australia and NZ markets. Look at posts #53 and #54:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lc-...-models-4.html

 

The letter in post #54 is also vague and says you can use android with enform, which simply means they have a Lexus app for android. That's completely different than saying they offer android auto upgrade.

i hope i'm wrong, but i still don't see an upgrade program to get android auto.

 

I know it looks vague but I asked specifically about Android Auto. I made no mention of Carplay in any of my messages to them.

 

well, well... this is definitely more specific. from Lexus New Zealand.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Upgrade (lexus.co.nz)

LEXUS AUDIO UPGRADE

Unlock the connectivity of your Lexus and stay connected on the go!

With this Lexus audio upgrade you can now access Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ features. This allows you to use certain device functions as you drive, but in a way that will let you stay focused on the road. Apps and controls appear on the vehicle’s audio display or can be accessed through your device’s voice-assistant.

Is my Lexus eligible to be upgraded to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

A select range of Lexus vehicles can be upgraded.

Eligible Lexus Models:

• Lexus LC (Production March-2017 to March-2020)
• Lexus NX (Production Sep-2017 to September-2019)
• Lexus LS (Production Oct-2017 to October-2020)
• Lexus RC (Production Nov-2017 to October-2019)
• Lexus RC F (Production Nov-2017 to August-2020)
• Lexus ES (Production Jul-2018 to September-2019)
• Lexus UX (Production Oct-2018 to September-2019)

If your vehicle model is not listed above, it is not eligible for this upgrade. For any further assistance, please contact your local authorised Lexus dealership.

What does the audio upgrade involve?

You will need to reserve a booking with your local authorised Lexus dealership for this upgrade. It will take approximately an hour.

This upgrade will include an audio software update (may also require navigation map update), and in some cases hardware update. You are welcome to wait at the Lexus dealership and enjoy a coffee and wi-fi while you wait, or drop your car off if it’s more convenient.

How much does it cost?

This audio upgrade fitted RRP is $299 including GST. This includes the Audio Upgrade Kit and components, as well as one hour of labour required to fitout the vehicle.

What is included in the audio upgrade kit?

• Supplement owners manual
• Universal charge and data cable
• Hardware (if required).

How do I get this audio upgrade?

Contact your local authorised Lexus dealership and reserving a booking today.

 

I wonder if it's true then - that there's a difference in audio systems based on region

 

i still think even the above is too vague and that it's possible they only offer the apple carplay upgrade to '18-'20 LC's even in NZ/AUS.

 

That is true - The new head unit was not installed until 2021 model year

 

so you agree that android auto is not available as a dealer upgrade in nz/aus for non-'21's?