Apple Car Key Guide: All Supported Vehicles

Five years ago, BMW introduced the ability to unlock vehicles with an iPhone as an exclusive premium feature. Today, Apple Car Key functions across 20 automotive brands covering hundreds of models, with thirteen additional manufacturers committed to implementation. What began as a novelty has evolved into increasingly standard equipment.

One significant holdout remains: Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, continues charging $15 monthly for its proprietary digital key system despite offering functionally identical capabilities without the subscription fee found in Apple’s implementation.

Apple Car Key stores digital credentials in Apple Wallet, enabling vehicle locking, unlocking, and engine starting through NFC or Ultra Wideband wireless technology. The system requires no subscription fees, no separate application, and no cellular data connection. It functions in power reserve mode when iPhone battery levels drop below one percent, works completely offline, and integrates seamlessly with the wallet system iPhone owners already use daily.

Here’s every vehicle that supports Apple Car Key, how the technology actually functions, and which manufacturers join next.

How Apple Car Key Works

Apple Car Key operates through two wireless technologies depending on vehicle hardware: Near Field Communication for tap-to-unlock functionality, and Ultra Wideband for passive entry that functions without removing your iPhone from a pocket.

NFC: Tap to Unlock

The NFC implementation requires physical proximity: tapping your iPhone against the door handle unlocks the vehicle, while a second tap secures it. Placing the device on the wireless charging pad or NFC reader in the dashboard enables the start button. Vehicle authentication occurs through Apple’s Secure Element, the same hardware-based encryption protecting Apple Pay transactions.

The system delivers consistently reliable performance with instant response and no lag, eliminating the frustration of app-dependent or Bluetooth connections that function intermittently.

UWB: Passive Entry

Ultra Wideband eliminates the tap requirement entirely. The iPhone 11 and newer models include a U1 chip communicating with UWB transceivers embedded in the vehicle’s body. Walk toward your car, and a Bluetooth Low Energy session establishes authentication first. The system derives a shared secret, then hands off to UWB radios for precise spatial positioning.

The vehicle tracks your iPhone’s location in three dimensions. Five feet away, puddle lights illuminate. Three feet away, mirrors unfold and seats adjust to your saved profile. Touch the door handle, it unlocks. Sit in the driver’s seat with the phone in your pocket, press the start button, engine fires. Exit the vehicle, walk more than ten feet away, doors lock automatically.

This passive entry system uses session-specific UWB ranging keys changing with each interaction. Protection against relay attacks that plague traditional key fobs. A thief can’t amplify the signal from your iPhone inside your house to unlock a car in the driveway. The UWB ranging protocol verifies actual physical proximity, not just signal strength. Real security through genuine spatial awareness.

Key Sharing

Key sharing happens through iMessage. Send a digital key to family or friends with configurable access levels. Full access provides complete functionality. Restricted access limits speed, audio volume, and driving area through geofencing. Useful for teenage drivers or valet parking. The vehicle owner can revoke access remotely anytime.

Apple Watch support mirrors iPhone functionality on compatible vehicles. Raise your wrist near the door handle to unlock. Keep the watch on your wrist while seated, start button activates. The convenience factor becomes apparent quickly once you experience it.

Supported Vehicles: The Complete 2025 List

Twenty automotive brands offer Apple Car Key across model year 2021 through 2026 vehicles. Support varies by trim level. Higher-end variants receive the technology first before trickling down to volume models.

Audi (2025+)

A5, A6, S6, Q5, SQ5, Q6, SQ6. Audi joined the ecosystem in 2025, implementing UWB passive entry across its refreshed lineup. The technology requires the Premium Plus or Prestige trim levels on most models.

BMW (2021+)

1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 8 Series, X1, X2, X3, X5, X6, X7, X5 M, X6 M, Z4 (2021+). i3, i4, iX, iX1, iX3 (2022+). i7 (2023+). i5 (2024+).

BMW launched Apple Car Key support in July 2020, becoming the first manufacturer to ship vehicles with the technology. The 2021 5 Series received it initially, followed by rollout across the entire lineup for vehicles manufactured after July 1, 2020. BMW supports both NFC and UWB implementations, with UWB available on models equipped with the Comfort Access keyless entry system.

BYD (2022+)

HAN. The Chinese automaker implemented Apple Car Key support in select markets for its flagship sedan.

Genesis (2023-2026)

G70 (2024+), G80 (2025+), G90 (2023+), GV60 (2023+, Performance trim only), GV70 (2024+), GV80 (2025+), GV80 Coupe (2025+).

Genesis adopted the technology in 2023, limiting initial availability to top trims. The GV60 electric crossover restricts support to the Performance variant with the $7,000 Advanced package. Standard and Advanced GV60 models lack compatibility despite identical smartphone integration hardware.

Hyundai (2023+)

Palisade (2023+), IONIQ 6 (2023+), Elantra (2024+), Kona EV (2024+), Santa Fe (2024+), Sonata (2024+), IONIQ 5 (2025+), Tucson (2025+), Santa Cruz (2025+), IONIQ 9 (2026+).

Hyundai’s implementation started with the 2023 Palisade three-row SUV and IONIQ 6 electric sedan, then expanded to the volume lineup. The 2025 IONIQ 5 refresh added support after three model years without it.

Kia (2023+)

Telluride (2023+), Niro (2023+), Seltos (2023+), EV6 (2024+), EV9 (2024+), Sorento (2024+), Carnival (2025+), K5 (2025+), EV3 (2024+).

Kia mirrors Hyundai’s rollout strategy, introducing Apple Car Key on higher-margin models first. The Telluride, Kia’s bestselling three-row SUV, received support in 2023. The EV6 electric crossover waited until the 2024 model year despite sharing a platform with the Genesis GV60 that launched with support in 2023.

Lotus (2024+)

Eletre (2024+), Emeya (2024+). The British manufacturer’s Chinese-built electric vehicles include Apple Car Key with UWB passive entry as standard equipment.

Lynk & Co

Select models in European and Chinese markets support Apple Car Key. U.S. availability remains unconfirmed as the Geely-owned brand has not entered the American market.

Mercedes-Benz (2024+)

E-Class (2024+), EQE (2025+), EQS (2025+).

Mercedes adopted Apple Car Key later than German rivals BMW and Audi, implementing support with the redesigned 2024 E-Class. The technology requires the Premium or Pinnacle trim packages that bundle Keyless-Go and smartphone integration upgrades.

MINI (2023-2024)

Cooper 3-door electric (November 2023+), Countryman (November 2023+), Cooper 3-door gas (March 2024+), Cooper 5-door (July 2024+), Aceman (May 2024+).

MINI, owned by BMW, adopted Apple Car Key across its refreshed lineup starting in late 2023. The electric Cooper launched with support, followed by gas variants and the new Aceman crossover.

NIO

ET7. The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer offers Apple Car Key in select markets.

Polestar

Polestar 3 (all variants), Polestar 4 (all variants).

Polestar, Volvo’s electric performance brand, includes Apple Car Key with UWB as standard equipment on the Polestar 3 SUV and Polestar 4 crossover coupe. The earlier Polestar 2 sedan lacks support.

RAM (2025+)

1500 (2025+).

RAM became the first American full-size pickup to support Apple Car Key with the refreshed 2025 RAM 1500. The technology requires the 12-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system available on Big Horn and higher trims.

Rivian

R1T (second-generation), R1S (second-generation).

Rivian confirmed Apple Car Key support for second-generation R1T and R1S models following the WWDC 2025 announcement. First-generation Rivian vehicles continue using the proprietary phone-as-a-key system through the Rivian app without Apple Wallet integration.

Volvo (2024+)

EX30 (2024+), EX90 (2024+).

Volvo implemented Apple Car Key on its new electric architecture starting with the 2024 EX30 compact SUV and EX90 three-row SUV. Legacy models including the XC40 Recharge, C40 Recharge, and XC60 lack support.

The Five-Year Timeline: From BMW to 20 Brands

June 2020: Apple announces Car Key at WWDC 2020 as part of iOS 13.6, with BMW as the launch partner.

July 2020: BMW begins shipping vehicles with Apple Car Key support. The 2021 5 Series arrives first, followed by 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 Series, X5, X6, X7, X5 M, X6 M, and Z4 manufactured after July 1.

2021: BMW expands support to electric models including iX and i4. No additional manufacturers join.

2022: Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis announce plans to support Apple Car Key. Limited rollout begins.

2023: Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis implement support across select 2023 models. MINI launches refreshed lineup with Car Key. Polestar adds support to Polestar 3.

2024: Mercedes-Benz joins with 2024 E-Class. Volvo implements on EX30 and EX90. Lotus includes support on Eletre and Emeya. Polestar adds Polestar 4. RAM announces support for 2025 RAM 1500.

June 2025: Apple announces 13 additional manufacturers at WWDC 2025: Acura, Porsche, GMC, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Rivian, Smart, Lucid Motors, Tata Motors, Hongqi, WEY, Chery, Voyah.

Fall 2025: Audi implements support across refreshed 2025 lineup. Backend code reveals Toyota infrastructure preparation.

December 2025: Apple’s backend systems update to include Toyota as supported manufacturer, suggesting imminent rollout.

Coming in 2026: Thirteen New Manufacturers

Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote announced the largest single expansion of Car Key support, adding 13 automotive brands. Implementation timing varies by manufacturer. Some confirmed 2026 model year availability. Others remain vague about rollout schedules.

Confirmed Details:

Acura: Honda’s luxury division will implement Apple Car Key across select models. Specific vehicles and timing unannounced.

Cadillac: Backend code analysis confirms infrastructure preparation. Likely candidates include the Lyriq electric SUV and redesigned Escalade.

Chevrolet: General Motors’ volume brand joins the ecosystem, potentially offering support across trucks and SUVs including Silverado, Tahoe, and Blazer EV.

Chery: The Chinese automaker’s support targets domestic and emerging markets.

GMC: GM’s truck-focused brand will likely mirror Chevrolet implementation across Sierra, Yukon, and Hummer EV.

Hongqi: The Chinese luxury brand owned by FAW Group joins the ecosystem for domestic market vehicles.

Lucid Motors: The electric luxury sedan manufacturer will add Apple Car Key to Lucid Air and the upcoming Gravity SUV. Timing unannounced but likely a 2026 model year update.

Porsche: The German sports car manufacturer’s announcement generated significant enthusiasm among enthusiasts. Implementation likely starts with Taycan electric sedan and Macan EV before expanding to 911, Cayenne, and Panamera.

Rivian: Confirmed for second-generation R1T and R1S. First deliveries of the updated models begin in 2026.

Smart: The Chinese-market electric city car brand will support Apple Car Key on upcoming models.

Tata Motors: India’s largest automaker joins, targeting domestic market vehicles including potential Jaguar Land Rover integration.

Voyah: The Chinese electric vehicle brand under Dongfeng Motor Corporation adds support.

WEY: Great Wall Motor’s premium brand implements Car Key for Chinese market vehicles.

The Toyota Question

In December 2025, code analysis revealed Apple updated backend systems to include Toyota as a supported manufacturer. The infrastructure exists. Official confirmation does not.

Toyota’s absence from Apple Car Key support stands out. The company sells more vehicles globally than any other manufacturer. It offers a proprietary digital key system on 2024 and newer models including 4Runner, Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Grand Highlander, Prius, Mirai, bZ4X, and Sienna.

That proprietary system requires a Remote Connect subscription costing $8 monthly for standalone service or $15 monthly bundled with navigation and other connected features. The free trial expires after one year. Some vehicles require a $275 hardware upgrade for digital key capability.

The economics explain Toyota’s reluctance. Remote Connect generates estimated $200 million annually based on subscription rates and active user counts reported in financial disclosures. Switching to Apple’s free integration eliminates that recurring revenue stream.

Backend preparation suggests Toyota recognizes customer demand. Implementation could arrive with the next-generation software platform expected to debut on 2026 models. Or Toyota may maintain its subscription model alongside optional Apple Wallet integration for customers who prefer the Apple ecosystem. The infrastructure preparation indicates movement. Direction remains unclear.

Apple Car Key vs. Toyota Digital Key

Toyota’s proprietary system and Apple Car Key solve the same problem. Cost, functionality, and user experience differ fundamentally.

Cost

Apple Car Key: Free. No subscription. No additional hardware purchase beyond owning an iPhone or Apple Watch. Works immediately on compatible vehicles without activation fees.

Toyota Digital Key: Requires Remote Connect subscription at $8 monthly standalone or $15 monthly bundled. After the one-year free trial expires, the digital key stops functioning unless you maintain an active subscription. Some vehicles charge a $275 one-time fee for digital key hardware capability.

Over five years of ownership, Toyota Digital Key costs $480 to $900 depending on subscription tier, while Apple Car Key costs nothing. The financial comparison requires no interpretation.

Storage and Access

Apple Car Key: Stored in Apple Wallet alongside credit cards, transit cards, and identification. No separate app required. The key remains accessible even when cellular service is unavailable or the iPhone enters power reserve mode.

Toyota Digital Key: Operates through the Toyota mobile app. Requires the app to remain installed and updated. Cellular data connection necessary for initial setup and key management, though local Bluetooth handles unlock functions once configured.

Key Sharing

Apple Car Key: Keys transmit through iMessage with configurable access levels, either full privileges or restricted permissions including speed limits and geofencing. Access revocation occurs instantly from any device signed into the same Apple ID, providing simple, fast, and secure management.

Toyota Digital Key: Sharing occurs through the Toyota app, requiring recipients to download the application, create an account, and accept the invitation. The process demands multiple steps and app installations on both sender and receiver devices, introducing significantly more friction and complexity.

Technology

Apple Car Key: Dual-mode operation using NFC for tap-to-unlock or UWB for passive entry depending on vehicle hardware. Secure Element encryption. Works in power reserve mode. Express Mode allows unlock without Face ID or Touch ID authentication.

Toyota Digital Key: Bluetooth-based proximity detection. Requires 4G cellular network for certain functions. Does not support passive entry on most models. Users must open the app or use phone-as-a-key proximity with manual confirmation.

Reliability

Apple Car Key: Delivers instant response when tapping NFC readers or approaching with UWB, establishing connections before reaching the door handle on UWB-equipped vehicles. The system functions with unwavering consistency.

Toyota Digital Key: User reports on forums describe inconsistent Bluetooth connections, delays ranging from three to ten seconds before unlock confirmation, and occasional failures requiring app restarts or physical key fob backup. The reliability gap creates recurring frustration.

Offline Functionality

Apple Car Key: Functions completely offline without requiring cellular or WiFi connections. The iPhone and vehicle authenticate locally through NFC or UWB without contacting Apple servers, ensuring reliability even in areas with no network coverage.

Toyota Digital Key: Requires cellular data for account verification and initial key provisioning. Local Bluetooth handles day-to-day operation, though loss of cellular service can impact key management features, creating challenges in remote areas.

Why Some Manufacturers Still Resist

Apple Car Key adoption grew from one manufacturer in 2020 to 20 by end of 2025, with 13 more committed for 2026. Yet major brands remain absent or uncommitted: Toyota, Honda (Acura announced but Honda brand unconfirmed), Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Volkswagen, Stellantis brands excluding RAM, and most Chinese domestic manufacturers.

The resistance stems from three factors: subscription revenue, data control, and development resources.

Subscription Revenue

Connected services generate recurring income. Toyota charges $8 to $15 monthly for digital key access. Ford’s FordPass, Chevrolet’s OnStar, and other manufacturer apps bundle digital keys with subscriptions costing $15 to $30 monthly. Adopting Apple Car Key eliminates that revenue stream or forces manufacturers to unbundle services, potentially reducing subscription appeal. The economics drive decisions more than technology considerations.

Data Control

Proprietary apps collect usage data, location history, and behavioral patterns informing product development and enabling targeted marketing. Apple Car Key operates through Apple Wallet with end-to-end encryption. Manufacturers lose visibility into how customers use digital keys, when they drive, and who they share access with. Data represents value. Giving it up requires compelling reasons.

Development Resources

Implementing Apple Car Key requires compatible NFC and potentially UWB hardware, software integration with vehicle access control systems, and certification through Apple’s CarPlay and Car Key programs. The engineering investment makes sense for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and other premium brands selling vehicles at $50,000 to $150,000. It’s harder to justify on a $25,000 Subaru Crosstrek or $22,000 Nissan Sentra where the feature competes with dozens of other cost considerations. Volume manufacturers face tighter margins.

What Owners Should Know

Apple Car Key capability isn’t universal even within supported manufacturers. Trim level, option packages, and production date determine compatibility.

Verify Before Purchase

Apple Car Key rarely appears as a standalone option. It bundles with premium packages including keyless entry, smartphone integration upgrades, and luxury equipment. Genesis GV60 restricts support to the $7,000 Advanced package. Mercedes-Benz requires Premium or Pinnacle trims. BMW includes it with Comfort Access.

Check the window sticker or build sheet. Keyless entry or passive entry doesn’t guarantee Apple Car Key support. Some vehicles offer traditional keyless entry through radio frequency key fobs without smartphone integration.

UWB vs. NFC Matters

Vehicles supporting only NFC require tapping the iPhone against the door handle and dashboard reader. UWB-equipped vehicles enable passive entry. Unlocking as you approach. Locking when you walk away. The user experience differs dramatically.

BMW, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, and newer implementations generally support both NFC and UWB. Older implementations may offer only NFC. Manufacturer specifications often don’t distinguish between the two technologies, listing only “Apple Car Key compatible” without clarifying passive entry availability. Ask specifically about UWB support when purchasing.

Apple Watch Functionality Varies

Most Apple Car Key-compatible vehicles support Apple Watch, but functionality may differ from iPhone. Some vehicles require raising your wrist near the door handle to unlock rather than providing true passive entry. Dashboard NFC readers may not recognize Apple Watch, requiring the iPhone to enable the start button. Test the Apple Watch functionality specifically if you plan to rely on it.

Setup Requires Physical Key

Initial Apple Car Key configuration requires the vehicle’s physical key fob. You can’t set up a digital key using only another digital key. If you lose all physical keys, you can’t provision new digital keys until the dealer programs replacement fobs. Keep at least one physical key secured safely.

Backup Key Fob Recommended

Digital keys fail when iPhone batteries die, software glitches occur, or wireless systems malfunction. Keeping a physical key fob accessible remains prudent. Some owners store backup fobs in magnetic hide-a-key boxes under the vehicle or in wallets separate from their primary iPhone. Digital convenience functions reliably until it doesn’t, making redundancy the difference between inconvenience and being stranded.

An Industry Standard

Five years into its existence, Apple Car Key has transitioned from BMW exclusive to industry standard. Twenty manufacturers currently support the technology, with thirteen additional brands joining in 2026. Holdouts diminish as customer expectations shift from viewing the feature as a luxury to questioning why premium vehicles costing $60,000 or more fail to integrate with their iPhones.

The technology works reliably. NFC provides consistent tap-to-unlock across all supported vehicles. UWB passive entry, where available, delivers the seamless experience that makes physical keys feel archaic. Security matches or exceeds traditional key fobs through hardware-based encryption and relay attack protection.

The cost advantage is absolute. Zero dollars versus subscription fees ranging from $8 to $30 monthly. Over a typical seven-year ownership period, that’s $672 to $2,520 saved by using the feature built into the iPhone you already own.

Manufacturer resistance stems from business model protection, not technical limitations. Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and others can implement Apple Car Key. They choose subscription revenue and data control instead. That choice grows harder to defend as competitors offer the feature standard and customers prioritize smartphone integration in purchase decisions.

For buyers shopping compatible vehicles, Apple Car Key transforms the ownership experience sufficiently to influence trim level selection. The premium packages enabling the feature often cost $2,000 to $7,000, representing significant expense offset by eliminating years of subscription fees while typically bundling additional equipment that provides genuine value beyond digital key access.

For owners of incompatible vehicles, manufacturer proprietary digital key systems function adequately for those willing to accept subscription costs and occasional reliability challenges. While less refined than Apple’s implementation, these systems serve daily use reasonably well, though users should anticipate periodic frustration with connection delays and cellular network dependencies.

As 2026 approaches, the relevant question shifts from identifying which vehicles support Apple Car Key to understanding why certain manufacturers continue resisting adoption and what rationale they offer. This market pressure expands implementation faster than technical specifications or press releases ever could. Customer expectations drive industry change, while holdouts face increasing scrutiny from consumers who view smartphone integration as fundamental rather than optional.

The future of vehicle access has already arrived, residing in Apple Wallet at no cost and functioning across an expanding list of automobiles. The technology proved its reliability and security over five years of real-world use. What began as a premium feature transforms into baseline expectation, making the trajectory toward universal adoption appear increasingly inevitable.

Apple Car Key: Quick Reference

Launch Date	June 2020 (iOS 13.6)
Compatible Devices	iPhone XR and newer, Apple Watch Series 5 and newer
Technology	NFC (all vehicles), UWB (select vehicles with passive entry)
Cost	Free (included with iOS)
Offline Functionality	Yes (works without cellular or WiFi)
Power Reserve Mode	Yes (works up to 5 hours after battery dies)
Key Sharing	Yes (through iMessage with configurable restrictions)
Security	Secure Element encryption, relay attack protection
Supported Manufacturers	20 (as of December 2025), 33+ (by end of 2026)