Ford Launching 2017 Escape in May as its First CarPlay Vehicle

[MacRumors]

As promised, Ford has announced that its new 2017 Escape will be its first vehicle to support CarPlay and Android Auto through its SYNC 3 Connect platform.

The automaker's best-selling SUV has entered production in Louisville, Kentucky, and sales will begin at U.S. and Canadian dealerships in May 2016.

Ford's all-new 2017 Escape hits dealerships in May 2016 (Image: Ford)​

CarPlay will bring Maps, Phone, Messages, Music, Podcasts, and a number of third-party apps, such as Spotify, to the 2017 Escape's in-dash multimedia system.

The Apple software can be controlled with Siri and your vehicle's built-in controls for convenient access to common iPhone features. iPhone 5 or later is required.

The new Escape also features available driver-assist technology that can "help keep drivers in their lane, maintain a set speed and distance on the highway, and even aid drivers in getting out of a tight parking spot."

Ford announced in January that it would be adding CarPlay and Android Auto to all 2017 vehicles in North America equipped with BlackBerry's QNX-based SYNC 3 platform, starting with the new Escape.

CarPlay and Android Auto will also be available in 2016 Ford vehicles with SYNC 3 as an upgrade later this year.

CarPlay is available in over 100 new 2016 and 2017 models worldwide from Acura, Audi, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Opel, Porsche, Peugeot, Seat, Skoda, Suzuki, Volkswagen, Volvo, and other carmakers.

CarPlay and Android Auto will also available in select Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models beginning this year. Toyota, meanwhile, remains one of the largest automakers that has yet to adopt CarPlay, instead choosing SmartDeviceLink, despite being listed as a committed partner on Apple's website since 2014.

Article Link: Ford Launching 2017 Escape in May as its First CarPlay Vehicle

 

[djcerla]

No carplay, no buy.

 

[YogY11]

Been there, done that.
2008 Focus:

 

[RightMACatU]

CarPlay yes, Ford, no thanks.

 

[Gudi]

I like the picture at the lake, because it looks like something that could actually happen in real life.

 

[dilbert99]

May 2016 or May 2017?

 

[Jukens]

Sync 3 is in the 2016 models....this doesn't make sense. Nvm just read its coming as an update.

 

[Gymgenius]

I really don't get Carplay.

Who want's to be fiddling with buttons, listening to or dictating messages etc whilst driving?

I'd rather just drive, and enjoy some (increasingly rare) gadget free time.

 

[sinsin07]

I really don't get Carplay.

Who want's to be fiddling with buttons, listening to or dictating messages etc whilst driving?

Perhaps people that are not you?

 

[Lemon Mac]

Would still never buy a Ford, sorry. Next.
[doublepost=1458304500][/doublepost]This isnt even front page news on www.fordrumors.com

 

[sinsin07]

Been there, done that.
2008 Focus:

Yikes, those bezels.
All it needs is a physical home button to complete the scene.
Makes my retina's burn.

 

[Gaprofitt]

Carplay quite frankly, sucks.. It's a half baked solution that doesn't work very well..

 

[5105973]

The new Escape also features available driver-assist technology that can "help keep drivers in their lane, maintain a set speed and distance on the highway, and even aid drivers in getting out of a tight parking spot."


Article Link: Ford Launching 2017 Escape as its First CarPlay Vehicle in May

I don't see what the big deal is. My dad has had these features with every car he's had since the late 60's. That's when he married my mom.

Ever since, he's had constant assistance with his driving.

"Bob, Bob, you're supposed to turn here!"

"Bob, you're going too fast."

"Oh for Crissakes speed it up or we will never get there."

"Bob, watch where you're going! Pay attention! There's a car there!"

"Bob don't park here, there is a spot right next to the door over there!"

Dear old mom! But on the few occasions when my mom is driving and Dad is riding shotgun he's just as bad. And when husband or I are driving, my dad turns into a human GPS.

Seriously though, while these technologies look great, I worry about the stuff I've read about them being hacked. It's hard for me to want to give up my nearly 25 year old car anytime soon when I think of that risk. But as I age I admit this all seems promising in terms of keeping me safely on the road into my golden years.

 

[Xavier]

They should just wait another year or 8. You never know.

Dodge just give me Carplay please!

 

[ZipZap]

Wake Up Acura!

 

[newdeal]

My GMC Canyon has carplay and I do like it but it needs some serious work. One big step forward would be if you could use google maps on carplay instead of apple maps

 

[Boatboy24]

No carplay, no buy.

Will be in the market to replace my wife's Pilot this time next year. She doesn't care a bit about it, but I do. While many auto makers have 'plans', the lack of availability so far is frustrating. I hope there's more availability soon.

 

[Sandstorm]

So far the only truly elegant CarPlay integration I've seen comes from Volvo in the new XC90 (and soon S90/V90). The native car UI is so good that you almost don't need CarPlay, but if you want it - it's there as one of the dynamic panels.

 

[rdlink]

I really don't get Carplay.

Who want's to be fiddling with buttons, listening to or dictating messages etc whilst driving?

I'd rather just drive, and enjoy some (increasingly rare) gadget free time.

Good for you. Fortunately, you can choose to drive a car without it if you'd like. The rest of us want it. Great having choices, huh?
[doublepost=1458305140][/doublepost]

Carplay quite frankly, sucks.. It's a half baked solution that doesn't work very well..

Disagree, as someone who's had it for over a year.

 

[639051]

Meh I really lost the need for CarPlay after getting my Mazda. The infotainment system in the 2016 CX-5 works well, has plenty of functionality and stays out of my way while driving.

 

[japanime]

I like the picture at the lake, because it looks like something that could actually happen in real life.

My first thought when I saw that picture was, "Wow, that looks familiar."

When I lived in the States many years ago, I lived in a house that was very much like that one — red with white trim, built on pilings over the water, with a rocky beach just a stone's throw away. So, I assure you, it actually does happen in real life.

I was just a recent college grad on an entry-level salary, though. I rented the place for a couple of years, but could never have afforded to buy it.

 

[Andres Cantu]

Better late than never, I suppose. Toyota, I hope you're keeping an eye-out (for your sake, not because I would buy one).

 

[carrrrrlos]

Google Maps on my iPhone precariously balanced on the dashboard works well.

 

[GenesisST]

Subaru, yeah you! Get on with it!

 

[QuarterSwede]

Carplay quite frankly, sucks.. It's a half baked solution that doesn't work very well..

Totally disagree. It's not only easier to use than anything else out there (save, possibly Android Auto that I have as well and don't use) but because of this I'm a much safer driver now too as I don't have to look at anything. This is a boon for those that have text heavy jobs and travel. Caveat: it works loads better on 9.3 beta 7.