The notion that CD players are a thing of the past in cars by 2025 might be more complicated than it seems—and this is where the debate gets interesting. While many assume that modern vehicles have completely phased out the classic CD player in favor of streaming and digital downloads, recent discoveries suggest otherwise. And this is the part most people miss—some manufacturers are still including CD players in their new models, despite the mainstream shift toward digital media.
Recently, I had an eye-opening experience in Aspen, Colorado, after traveling from Denver. I spent some time behind the wheel of a 2025 Subaru Outback. To my surprise, tucked neatly inside the center armrest storage was a built-in CD player. It was a top-tier Touring XT version, which comes standard with this feature. Interestingly, even the more affordable Touring trim also includes a CD player. Considering how many assume CD players are extinct, finding one in a nearly new vehicle was a real eye-opener.
But here’s where it gets controversial—this isn’t an isolated case. The 2025 Lexus IS sedan and the RC coupe, for example, still come equipped with dashboard-mounted CD players. However, the RC coupe’s CD player is set to be discontinued after 2025, and the Lexus IS is preparing for its third redesign as it heads into 2026, with plans to phase out the CD player altogether.
What about Subaru itself? Despite the widespread belief that CD players are falling out of favor, Subaru still offers the option of a CD player on the WRX model. You can even still get one in the 2024 WRX, which is a testament to how some brands continue to support this feature. As for the Outback, which I mentioned earlier, it’s about to be replaced by a new generation in 2026, and Subaru has confirmed to The Drive that the upcoming model will not include a CD player.
So, the landscape isn’t as clear-cut as many think. While the trend leans heavily toward digital media, certain models and brands are still holding onto the CD player—at least for now. Does the continued existence of CD players in some new cars surprise you? Or do you think they’ll stick around longer than most expect? Share your thoughts—this debate is far from over.
