What New Cars Still Have CD Players?

Believe it or not, a few car models still come with CD players, but they’re becoming rarer than a four-leaf clover. Most new rides are all about Bluetooth and fancy infotainment systems. If a CD player is a must-have, some brands—especially Japanese ones—might still offer it, but it’s usually an optional upgrade. Here’s a quick list of some 2023 models that might still have a CD player, though it’s not exhaustive.

In short, finding a new car with a CD player is tough, and it looks like they might be on their way out altogether in the next few years.

Why Are CD Players Disappearing?

These days, it’s all about Spotify, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Apple claims that 98% of new cars come with CarPlay, and a whopping 79% of folks say they’d only buy a new car if it had this feature. It’s clear that the game is changing, and the car industry is feeling the heat from tech giants like Apple and Google.

Smartphones are packed with music, podcasts, and audiobooks, making a CD player seem a bit old school. Why bother with CDs when a phone can hold way more tunes? Plus, car makers are all about maximizing profits, and with fewer people using CD players, they’re seen as bulky and unnecessary.

Unfortunately, CD lovers are becoming a rare breed, and car manufacturers aren’t keen on wasting resources on a feature that’s losing popularity.

What’s Next for CD Enthusiasts?

For those who’ve built up a solid CD collection, tossing it all away for digital tunes isn’t appealing. But there’s good news—there are options!

1. Buy a Used Car

   

   No need to go for a brand-new ride. Older models often come with CD players and can save some cash on depreciation. Cars made before 2017 are likely to have them, so keep an eye out for those gems.

2. Digitize Your CDs

   This might feel like a leap, but it’s a solid move if a new car is on the horizon. Burn your CDs to a computer and save them on a USB drive or smartphone. When it’s time to hit the road, just connect via Bluetooth and enjoy the tunes through the car’s stereo.

3. Install a USB CD Player

   Aftermarket USB CD players are available and can be discreetly wired into the car. Just be cautious—if not installed right, they might drain the battery when the car is off.

What’s the Best Move for New Cars Without CD Players?

The easiest route? Upload music from CDs to a smartphone or another device. This way, it’s all in one place, and there’s no need to fuss with extra hardware. Sure, a USB CD player is an option, but with CDs fading away, it might not be the best investment.

For those really committed to CDs, going for a used car with a CD player could be the way to go. Most people don’t need the latest model, so snagging something a few years old can be a smart choice.