My question is do you have to use these apps. to run your car normally. Can you just use your key fob, just play your radio with saved stations, etc. What do I give up not using apps.

 

The app is primarily used for:
Setting up the car for the first time. Subscribing to subscription services and trials. Accepting terms of use.
Creating user profiles.
Remote starting the car.
Checking on the state of locks, doors, windows, charge in the PHEV.
Setting home, work addresses in the nav system. There is no way to do that without the app which seems very strange.

I’m not sure what happens if you try to drive the car before the first set up with the app. I suspect it works. But the dealer should walk you thru this when you get the car. After the first setup you can certainly use the car without ever using the app.

 

What if you have a 250. And don’t have the digital key. Or pay for the subscription services?

You still need to do the initial set up through the App?