As is common, the new HMI will get over-the-air updates when necessary, either to add more features or update the navigation system. It also has a virtual assistant that can be called upon like Siri on your iPhone. Speaking of which, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both compatible, and like Porsche, Apple Music can now be integrated without connecting your phone. Toyota says the system is designed to be “voice first,” but so far these systems have been less than perfect, so we’ll wait to judge.
“With this new system we are jumping into the future, from larger touchscreens up to 14 inches to having a 100% cloud-navigation for more accurate and faster directions,” said Basra. “We want all of our customers to experience this in-vehicle advancement, and that is why this system will eventually be offered across our vehicle line-up – regardless of screen size or model grade. This is another first in company history.”
The system will debut later this year on the new Lexus NX in the fourth quarter of 2021.