2015 Hyundai Sonata First To Offer Android Auto Direct From Showroom

A year ago, Google introduced Android Auto to the world. Now, the 2015 Hyundai Sonata is the first to offer the system directly from the showroom floor.

Those seeking to connect their Android smartphones to their Sonata must check-off the technology package available — featuring the 8-inch nav screen required for Android Auto — for most trims, Automotive News reports. Consumers who already have a 2015 Sonata with the 8-inch screen can visit their nearest dealership for a free software update to bring Google’s connected-vehicle system into the fold; an over-the-air update direct from Hyundai is also a possibility.

While the Sonata is first off the line with Android Auto already onboard, Pioneer has offered the system on the aftermarket since March. Quality control and difficulties in making the change on the assembly line midyear were among the reasons cited for the delay, according to Hyundai Motor America senior manager Carson Grover, who adds those who use Android Auto for the first time won’t ever want to stop:

Within not too many years, this could become almost a ubiquitous technology in the industry. We have a great opportunity by being early because it’ll be a differentiator for us for hopefully quite some time. I think customers will very quickly start to see the benefit and see the reason to seek out a vehicle with this technology.

The introduction will prove to be a boon for Google, as well, as Android Auto’s showroom introduction gives the tech giant the opportunity to seize some market share before Apple’s iOS-based CarPlay system enters showrooms later on, the Sonata among the models to receive the system.

Other automakers, such as Ford, General Motors, Honda and Volkswagen, will bring Android Auto into their respective offerings within the next year, among the dozens of automakers who have pledged to do so.

[Source: Timothy Cain/ The Truth About Cars]