Which Vehicles Are iPhone Car Key Compatible in 2025?
If you’re wondering which vehicles are iPhone car key compatible cars in 2025, you’re not alone. Apple’s digital car key feature has grown in popularity since its launch in 2020, letting users lock, unlock, and start their vehicles with an iPhone or Apple Watch. Whether you’re planning to buy a new car or just want to check compatibility with your Apple device, this guide covers everything you need to know—from supported manufacturers and vehicle models to how the feature works and what iPhones are required. Apple’s car key functionality is supported by top automakers like BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, and Mercedes-Benz—and that list keeps growing each year.
How the iPhone Car Key Works in 2025
Apple’s iPhone car key compatible cars utilize NFC and UWB (ultra-wideband) technologies to allow seamless interaction between your iPhone or Apple Watch and your car. Depending on the vehicle model and manufacturer, the feature comes in three main levels:
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Passive Entry and Start: Automatically unlock and start your car just by having your iPhone nearby.
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Proximity Entry: Unlock and start your car when you bring the device near the door or ignition.
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Remote Lock/Unlock: Control access to your car from anywhere using the Wallet app.
Apple also includes Express Mode, which skips Face ID, Touch ID, or passcode authentication—ideal when you’re carrying groceries or in a hurry. To use these features, you’ll need at least an iPhone XS or newer, or an Apple Watch Series 5 or later. Passive entry, however, requires an iPhone 11 or Apple Watch Series 6 at minimum.
Complete List of iPhone Car Key Compatible Cars (2025 Update)
Apple’s official support page may not always reflect the latest additions, but we’ve compiled an updated list of iPhone car key compatible cars as of July 2025. This includes recently released models from major automakers:
Audi
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2025 and newer A5, Q5, SQ5, A6, S6, Q6, SQ6
BMW
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2021 and newer: 1–8 Series, X5, X6, X7, Z4
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2022 and newer: i4, iX, iX1, iX3
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2023 and newer: i3, i7
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2024 and newer: i5
MINI
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Cooper (3-door and 5-door, from 2023–2024)
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Aceman and Countryman (from 2023–2024)
Hyundai
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2023+: Palisade, IONIQ 6
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2024+: Elantra, Kona, Santa Fe, Sonata
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2025+: Tucson, Santa Cruz, IONIQ 5
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2026+: IONIQ 9
Kia
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2023+: Telluride, Niro, Seltos
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2024+: EV3, EV6, EV9, Sorento
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2025+: Carnival, K5
Genesis
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2023+: GV60, G90
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2024+: G70, GV70, GV90
Mercedes-Benz
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2024+: E-Class
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2025+: EQE, EQS
Polestar
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All models of Polestar 3 and Polestar 4
RAM
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2025+: RAM 1500
Volvo
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2024+: EX30, EX90
Lotus
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2024+: Eletre, Emeya
Additional manufacturers like BYD, NIO, and Lynk & Co. have begun rolling out support for Apple’s car key feature as well.
This list continues to grow, especially as more automakers adopt digital key standards and prioritize Apple integration. Be sure to check your specific trim level and production date with the manufacturer, as availability can vary within the same model.
Should You Choose an iPhone Car Key Compatible Vehicle?
Buying one of the many iPhone car key compatible cars in 2025 can be a smart move if you value convenience and security. Imagine walking up to your car, having it unlock without reaching for anything, and driving off without inserting a key. That’s not just cool—it’s practical. With more vehicles offering passive entry and ultra-wideband functionality, the Apple digital car key experience is becoming faster and more reliable.
The ability to share car keys digitally is also a game-changer. You can grant access to family or friends right from your iPhone’s Wallet app. It’s safer than handing over a physical key and much more convenient. Add to that the strong encryption Apple uses, and it’s easy to see why this feature is catching on among drivers, especially in the EV and premium car markets.
For anyone buying a new vehicle in 2025, especially an electric or luxury model, checking for iPhone car key compatibility should be part of your decision-making process. It adds future-proofing, simplifies daily routines, and reflects the increasing integration between smart devices and transportation.
Keeping Up with iPhone Car Key Trends
The automotive world is evolving fast, and Apple’s digital car key is a small but powerful example of how smartphones are transforming everyday tasks. More iPhone car key compatible cars are hitting the market every year, with improved features and broader support across price points—from luxury sedans to electric SUVs and family-friendly crossovers.
As of mid-2025, brands like BMW, Hyundai, and Kia are leading the way in digital key adoption, but more automakers are jumping on board as the technology becomes standard. Apple’s focus on security and convenience makes this feature particularly appealing for iPhone users. Whether you’re upgrading your ride or just curious about smart car tech, knowing which models support the iPhone car key can help you make a better-informed choice.
Be sure to check both Apple’s and the manufacturer’s latest documentation before purchasing a vehicle, as new models are updated frequently. And if your car isn’t compatible just yet, stay tuned—support could be coming sooner than you think.
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