The best in-car infotainment system isn’t necessarily the one with the largest screen or the most extravagant interface.
In many cases, a more compact screen complemented by physical controls and well-placed buttons enhances the driving experience far more than flashy, screen-heavy setups designed primarily to impress car buyers.
Efficiency matters being able to complete tasks with fewer clicks is a significant advantage. Multiple input methods, such as a convenient rotary dial, can elevate an infotainment system from good to outstanding.
Of course, responsiveness is key; the system shouldn’t be sluggish or outdated in appearance. With high expectations and a variety of solutions available, this list highlights the 10 best infotainment systems for 2025 and the vehicles they are featured in.
1. Stellantis UConnect 5
Vehicle: Ram 1500
UConnect 5 is an exceptional system across most Stellantis vehicles, but it truly excels in a Ram 1500 equipped with the optional 14.0-inch vertically oriented touchscreen.
The tile-based layout allows multiple apps to be displayed simultaneously, making information easy to access at a glance.
A standout feature is the ability to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto alongside the vehicle’s native infotainment apps without the need to toggle between screens.
Additionally, physical knobs and buttons for climate controls are positioned alongside the display for added convenience.
The system is highly responsive, the user interface is visually appealing, and an optional passenger screen is available, offering entertainment features such as movie streaming and additional infotainment functions.
2. BMW iDrive 8.5
This isn’t just a general nod to iDrive 8 what sets iDrive 8.5 apart is the introduction of more hotkey shortcuts and the refinement of previous bugs, making it a significantly better infotainment system.
The same “Curved Display,” which features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen, is standard across all the listed BMW models.
It’s a stunning setup, boasting sharp graphics and a highly responsive touch interface. However, what truly earns iDrive its place on this list is the retention of the iDrive rotary knob, allowing drivers to bypass the touchscreen when needed.
In many cases, this makes interactions easier and safer, as users can stay seated comfortably and scroll or tilt their way through menu selections.
Additionally, BMW incorporates shortcut buttons around the knob, offering quick access to navigation, media, and driver-assistance settings.
While the generic “app drawer” can feel somewhat cluttered, navigating through the extensive features becomes more intuitive with use.
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3. Toyota / Lexus Multimedia System
Vehicles: Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Tundra, Lexus TX, Lexus RX, Lexus GX
Toyota utilizes the same multimedia software across most of its lineup, but the best implementation can be found in models equipped with the large 14.0-inch touchscreen.
The Toyota Multimedia System delivers a clean, user-friendly experience that avoids unnecessary complexity while still offering high-quality functionality.
In vehicles without physical climate controls, such as the Lexus GX and RX, essential climate settings are conveniently pinned to the bottom of the screen, ensuring quick access.
Additionally, the integration of screen-based knobs for temperature adjustment is a thoughtful touch.
A notable enhancement came with a recent over-the-air update, allowing users to retain native system shortcuts even while using Apple CarPlay demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to addressing consumer feedback.
The interface is visually appealing, highly responsive, and well-organized, avoiding unnecessary clutter.
And if you ever struggle to locate a specific setting, the built-in search function accessible via voice or text input quickly finds what you need with ease.
4. Lucid
Vehicles: Lucid Air
Lucid takes a unique approach to its infotainment system by combining multiple screens one positioned traditionally for navigation, media, and phone functions, while a separate lower screen handles all car-related settings and controls.
Unlike certain EV brands (cough, Tesla), Lucid offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Early versions of the Air experienced some software hiccups, but the more recent models we’ve tested feature nearly flawless performance.
Now that the system is running smoothly, it serves as a prime example of how an infotainment setup can eliminate most physical buttons without sacrificing ease of use.
Fortunately, the Air retains a volume scroll wheel and climate-control toggles for essential adjustments, while most settings remain accessible within a single tap on the touchscreen.
The displays themselves are stunning, boasting sharp visuals and rapid responsiveness. With this solid foundation in place, we’re eager to see how Lucid refines its infotainment experience with the upcoming Gravity SUV.
5. Ford / Lincoln Digital Experience
Vehicles: Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator
Android Automotive–based infotainment is becoming increasingly common, and the Ford Digital Experience stands out as one of the best implementations.
With Google Maps as the native navigation system and Google Assistant handling voice commands, you might find yourself questioning the need for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
However, unlike GM which has completely removed these smartphone integration options Ford continues to offer them, ensuring users have a choice.
One of the biggest advantages of this system is the ability to display Google Maps directly in the digital instrument cluster, a feature that feels particularly well-executed in the Explorer and Aviator.
While the Lincoln Nautilus offers a more futuristic take with its full-width windshield display, its ergonomic shortcomings make the more traditional setup in the Explorer and Aviator the better experience overall.
6. Mazda Connect
Vehicles: Mazda CX-90, Mazda CX-70
Mazda employs the same infotainment software across its lineup, but it shines the brightest in the CX-90 and CX-70, thanks to their expansive 12.3-inch display.
Similar to BMW’s approach, the standout feature here is the control knob located on the center console, which is seamlessly integrated with the native software.
This knob isn’t just useful for Mazda’s system it also enhances the experience of using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The physical shortcut buttons for navigation, media, and other functions allow for quick access to corresponding smartphone apps, often making interactions faster and safer than a traditional touchscreen.
Mazda also positions its screens higher in the driver’s field of vision, reducing the need to take your eyes off the road. While the CX-90 does include touchscreen functionality, it’s only accessible when using CarPlay or Android Auto.
7. Volvo with Google Built-In
Vehicles: Volvo S60, V60, S90, V90, XC40, XC60, XC90, C40 Recharge
Volvo is another automaker that has successfully integrated Google Built-In into its infotainment system.
It combines the brand’s signature Swedish minimalist luxury with the power of Google Maps for navigation and Google Assistant for voice control.
Much like Ford’s implementation, Volvo’s ability to display Google Maps directly in the instrument cluster is a standout feature, reducing the need to interact with the sleek, vertically oriented touchscreen while driving.
The system is well-executed, but one notable drawback is Volvo’s decision to bury the drive mode selection within the touchscreen menu.
A few more physical buttons for frequently used functions would elevate this already impressive setup to a true top-tier infotainment experience.
8. Hyundai ccNC
Vehicles: Hyundai Sonata, Kona, Tucson, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, Ioniq 5
Hyundai’s latest infotainment system, oddly named ccNC, finally brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto catching up to the competition after years of lagging behind.
This upgrade is a welcome addition, and the system itself follows a display strategy similar to BMW’s, with a large curved screen that seamlessly integrates both the instrument cluster and infotainment system.
The interface is designed with a clean, tile-based menu structure, making it one of the most intuitive and user-friendly systems available.
Hyundai also strikes an excellent balance between digital and analog controls, ensuring that drivers don’t have to rely solely on the screen for essential functions like climate control or radio adjustments.
Physical buttons remain for key functions, including track skipping and the customizable “Favorite” button, which provides quick access to frequently used apps.
9. Kia ccNC
Vehicles: Kia K4, K5, Sorento, EV6, EV9
Kia’s infotainment system closely mirrors Hyundai’s, though it features a slightly different aesthetic to complement the brand’s sharper, more angular design language.
While the core functionality of the screens remains the same, Kia introduces a unique element with its multi-function action bar on models like the EV6, K5, and Sorento.
This adaptable interface allows users to toggle between radio/navigation and climate controls depending on the selected mode, effectively integrating more “physical” controls into a compact space.
It’s a clever feature that enhances usability but may take some time to get accustomed to.The EV9 utilizes the same infotainment system but incorporates its own distinct climate control panel, positioned between the screens.
While its placement might seem unconventional, Kia ensures ease of use by retaining more traditional climate controls, providing a balanced mix of digital and physical inputs.
10. Porsche Driver Experience
The Macan EV debuts an entirely new infotainment system for Porsche, delivering the most seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration seen yet.
Unlike other Android Automotive–based systems that require Google Maps to be built-in for full-screen cluster projection, the Macan EV allows users to mirror Apple Maps or Google Maps directly into the digital instrument cluster just by connecting their phone.
Beyond its advanced smartphone integration, the system itself is exceptionally quick to respond and represents a major leap forward in layout and usability compared to previous Porsche infotainment setups.
Porsche also maintains its commitment to physical controls, with an array of climate functions placed on the panel below the well-proportioned 10.9-inch touchscreen.
While not a deciding factor, the Macan EV also offers an available passenger screen with extensive functionality, adding to the overall premium experience.
