Cars that support over-the-air (OTA) updates for infotainment and vehicle software systems are becoming increasingly common worldwide. This technology allows car owners to receive software updates remotely, much like smartphones, without needing to visit a dealership. These updates can improve infotainment features, navigation maps, vehicle performance, and safety systems. If looking for a car with OTA update support, here is detailed information on where and what to buy.
What Are Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates in Cars?
OTA updates mean your car’s software can be updated wirelessly over the internet. This includes updating the infotainment system’s apps, navigation maps, safety features, and sometimes core vehicle systems like powertrain management or driver assistance technologies. OTA updates help keep a car feeling new and improve functionality without dealership visits.
Why Buy a Car with OTA Update Capability?
- Convenience:Â Updates happen remotely and automatically.
- Enhanced Features:Â New infotainment options and vehicle improvements can be added after purchase.
- Improved Vehicle Value:Â Cars with OTA support tend to retain higher resale value due to continual improvements.
- Better User Experience:Â Receive bug fixes and enhancements seamlessly.
Top Brands Offering Cars with OTA Infotainment Updates
Kia
Kia provides OTA updates for infotainment and various vehicle systems through its Kia Connect platform. Updates are downloaded automatically while driving and installation happens when the vehicle is parked safely. Kia offers OTA for models equipped with this technology, with support lasting up to 10 years at no extra cost after enrolling in Kia Connect.
Hyundai
Hyundai is a major player in OTA vehicle technology. Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 offer comprehensive OTA updates not only for infotainment but for the full vehicle system. Hyundai plans for all its vehicles globally to support OTA updates by 2025. BlueLink connectivity enables this for Hyundai cars sold in India and other markets as well.
BMW
BMW offers OTA updates that optimize vehicle systems and introduce new features remotely. Though updates complement traditional dealership service, BMW’s OTA system ensures cars are always running the latest software.
Audi and Mercedes-Benz
Audi, including models like the Audi e-Tron, and Mercedes-Benz provide OTA updates mainly for infotainment systems and navigation maps. These brands continuously improve OTA offerings for new vehicles.
Tesla, Rivian, Polestar
Technology-focused brands like Tesla, Rivian, and Polestar are known for their robust OTA updates that enhance car features and performance even after purchase. Tesla especially leads in frequent and feature-adding updates.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen has overcome initial challenges to successfully implement OTA updates for infotainment and some vehicle functions. While updates are less frequent than Tesla, the system is established and functional.
Volvo
Volvo releases software updates regularly, including infotainment and vehicle system improvements, accessible via their support platforms.
Where to Buy These Cars?
- Authorized Brand Dealerships: The easiest and most reliable place to buy OTA-enabled cars is official brand dealerships. For Kia and Hyundai, their dealerships will confirm the availability of OTA-capable trims.
- Official Brand Websites: Most brands have OTA update information on their vehicle pages, allowing buyers to verify if the specific model/trims support OTA updates.
- Online Car Marketplaces: Platforms advertising new cars often list OTA update capabilities as a feature in their descriptions.
- Specialty Ev and Technology Car Retailers: For brands like Tesla, Rivian, and Polestar, their company stores or authorized retailers offer OTA-ready vehicles.
Regional Considerations
In markets like India, Hyundai actively promotes OTA update-capable cars with BlueLink technology. Korean and international markets have broad OTA support, while availability may vary by region and model in others.
What To Expect When Using OTA Updates
- Wireless software updates downloaded automatically during driving.
- A notification to the owner’s smartphone or car infotainment system when updates are ready.
- Installation timed typically when the vehicle is parked safely.
- Updates can include infotainment improvements, new apps, map updates, and even safety system tweaks.
- Some vehicles disable driving during installation for safety.
Best Choices for OTA Cars in 2025
| Brand | OTA Coverage | How to Buy | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia | Infotainment + vehicle systems | Kia dealerships & official site | OTA for up to 10 years post-sale |
| Hyundai | Infotainment + full vehicle systems | Hyundai dealers & online | Plans all models OTA by 2025 |
| BMW | Infotainment + vehicle optimization | BMW dealerships | OTA complements dealer service |
| Audi | Infotainment + maps | Audi dealers | Mainly infotainment updates |
| Mercedes-Benz | Infotainment + maps | Mercedes dealerships | Ongoing OTA for new models |
| Tesla | Comprehensive OTA updates | Tesla stores & online | Frequent feature-adding updates |
| Rivian | Vehicle & infotainment OTA | Rivian stores & online | Strong OTA focus |
| Polestar | Vehicle & infotainment OTA | Polestar dealers & online | OTA updates standard |
| Volkswagen | Infotainment + some vehicle functions | VW dealers | OTA less frequent than Tesla |
| Volvo | Infotainment + vehicle system updates | Volvo dealers | Regular software updates |
Final Tips Before Buying
- Confirm OTA capabilities for the exact model and trim.
- Check if OTA updates require subscription or activation plans (some brands may charge after a trial period).
- Consider the importance of frequent updates versus occasional bug fixes.
- Understand update safety requirements like parking the vehicle and installation time.
Choosing a car with OTA infotainment updates makes owning a vehicle more flexible and future-ready. Brands like Kia, Hyundai, Tesla, and BMW are at the forefront of this technology in 2025. Buyers should prioritize these OTA features to ensure their car stays up to date with evolving technology effortlessly.
This article reflects the state of OTA-capable vehicles as of September 22, 2025, offering a detailed guide on what to look for and where to buy cars with over-the-air infotainment system updates.
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