The 2020 Toyota Corolla is a reliable, fuel-efficient compact sedan or hatchback that’s become a go-to vehicle for drivers looking for simplicity and practicality. However, one common limitation many owners report is the absence of built-in navigation in many base or mid-tier models. If you’ve asked yourself, “How do I get navigation on my 2020 Toyota Corolla?” this guide will walk you through all the available options, from factory solutions to third-party and smartphone-based alternatives.
In this article, you’ll discover:
– Why your 2020 Corolla may not have built-in navigation
– How to check if your current infotainment system supports navigation
– Factory-installed navigation options
– Aftermarket solutions
– Smartphone integration options
– Step-by-step instructions for installation
– Tips to get the most out of your navigation system
Let’s dive in.
Why the 2020 Toyota Corolla May Not Have Built-in Navigation
Trim Level Determines Features
One of the main reasons your 2020 Toyota Corolla might lack built-in navigation is simply due to the trim level you purchased. Toyota offers a range of trims — from the basic LE to higher trims like XLE and Limited. The Toyota Entune™ 3.0 system, which is standard across the Corolla lineup, offers varying degrees of smartphone integration and app support, but does not come with factory navigation unless you specifically opt for certain trim levels or packages.
Only the 2020 Corolla Limited trim comes with standard built-in navigation, which is part of the Entune Premium Audio system equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen.
Understanding Toyota’s Infotainment System Options
Toyota gives vehicle buyers the option to upgrade the infotainment system, especially in higher trims. The Entune 3.0 Premium Navigation and App Suite is typically offered as part of a display audio package. Not all trim levels include this package by default, but it can sometimes be added during purchase or as an upgrade post-purchase.
It’s essential to verify the equipment codes or build sheet of your specific 2020 Corolla to confirm whether it originally came with a navigation-capable system. Here’s a simple checklist you can use:
| Trim Level | Navigating Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Corolla LE | Not available |
| Corolla XLE | Optional (may have built-in nav, depending on add-ons) |
| Corolla Limited | Standard |
If you’re unsure, contacting your local Toyota dealership with your VIN can provide accurate information about what infotainment components your car is or isn’t equipped with.
Checking Your 2020 Toyota Corolla for Navigation Readiness
Before purchasing new hardware or software, it’s a good idea to check if your vehicle is navigation-ready.
Infotainment System Inspection
If your Corolla LE or XLE model has the 8-inch touchscreen with Entune 3.0, it can support Toyota’s native navigation system through a software update or an SD card update, depending on the hardware version.
Steps to check compatibility:
- Power on the touchscreen infotainment system
- Navigate through the menu screen
- Look for “Navigation” in the icon list or access settings.
- If you see an option labeled “Navigation SD Card Update,” your system may be navigation-ready.
Contacting Toyota’s Tech Support or Your Dealer
If you’re still unsure, you can reach out directly to Toyota’s Infotainment support at 1-877-606-8869 or contact your authorized Corolla dealership. They can confirm whether your Corolla has the navigation-ready hardware, including the GPS module, which is installed underneath the dashboard and is part of the vehicle’s factory setup.
Factory-Installed Navigation Options
If your Corolla is indeed navigation-ready, Toyota offers a few official routes to installing navigation in your 2020 Toyota Corolla.
Upgrading Through Toyota Genuine Parts & Accessories
Toyota provides an official navigation update kit, which includes an SD card containing the necessary map data and application software. Often sold under the part number PT295-34190, this SD card plugs directly into the vehicle’s infotainment system and enables the navigation interface.
Process of Installation:
Step 1: Order the SD card from your local Toyota dealership or through Toyota’s online parts warehouse.
Step 2: Locate the SD card slot — it’s typically under the dashboard or inside the glove compartment.
Step 3: Insert the SD card and restart the system.
Step 4: Once recognized, the system will automatically install the update.
Cost Considerations
The SD card upgrade typically costs between $120 to $200, depending on your dealership and the map data version required. This is the most straightforward and official way to get Toyota’s native navigation without changing your hardware.
Aftermarket Navigation Solutions
If your Corolla is not navigation-ready, you can explore a wide variety of aftermarket navigation systems. These units are generally more powerful, offer improved screen size, and come with additional features like rearview camera integration, voice control, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Popular Aftermarket Headunits
There are dozens of manufacturers in this space — companies like Pioneer, Kenwood, and Alpine have excellent reputations. When choosing an aftermarket solution for your Corolla, ensure that it fits the specific dash cavity and wiring specs of your model year.
Here are a few popular options:
| Product | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming | $450–$550 |
| Kenwood DDX9906i | 9-inch screen, built-in GPS, Wi-Fi connectivity, customizable UI | $650–$750 |
| Alpine iLX-F903D | Dashcam integration, dual wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, DVD playback | $500–$600 |
Professional Installation Required
Unlike the SD card upgrade, an aftermarket headunit requires professional installation, which typically costs between $100 to $300, depending on the complexity and the labor rate of your installer.
Integration with Vehicle Functions
You should also consider features that require special adapters:
- Steering wheel controls
- Vehicle speed display
- Factory HVAC or trip computer integration (optional)
These are available as add-on modules and should be selected during your purchase to ensure full functionality.
Smartphone-Based Navigation Solutions
For drivers looking to save money or avoid modifications, using your smartphone as a navigation source may be the most practical and modern solution.
Using Google Maps or Apple Maps
The most straightforward navigation method is to use your iPhone or Android device with a built-in map app. Both Apple Maps and Google Maps are free, feature-rich, and offer high-quality voice-guided turn-by-turn navigation.
Mounting Options:
- Vent mount
- Dash suction mount
- Windshield mount
Choose a high-quality magnetic or grippy mount that holds your device safely and securely within view without obstructing the drivetrain or dashboard instruments.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility
The 2020 Toyota Corolla comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration — built-in for most models regardless of trim level. This presents one of the best ways to access navigation within the infotainment screen itself — through your smartphone’s native apps.
Here’s how to get started:
- Locate the infotainment screen and USB port (usually in the center console armrest or glovebox area)
- Connect your iPhone or Android device via a certified USB cable
- Allow the connection and wait for the CarPlay or Android Auto interface to launch
- Launch Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze directly through the touchscreen
This offers an integrated appearance without needing to install physical or software navigation within your car.
Wireless Options?
Some aftermarket headunits offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. However, in the 2020 Corolla’s factory system, you can only use wired connections for CarPlay/Android Auto, which ensures better stability with Google Maps or Apple Maps.
Using Waze or Other Navigation Apps
If you prefer augmented navigation with live traffic updates, community alerts, and gamified driving experiences, Waze is an excellent alternative to Google Maps. Waze is available for both iOS and Android and integrates fully into CarPlay and Android Auto, showing real-time speed camera alerts, police locations, and road closures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Factory Navigation SD Card
If you’ve already confirmed compatibility and opted for the official Toyota navigation upgrade, here’s a full step-by-step guide for installation:
Materials Required
- Toyota Navigation SD card (part #PT295-34190)
- Thin-tipped screwdriver or coin
- Flat surface to work on
Installation Steps
Step 1: Turn Off Car and Remove Key
Ensure your car is completely off. For vehicles with push-button start, ensure the Smart Key is out of range when working with electronics.
Step 2: Locate the SD Card Slot
The SD card slot is typically located:
– Below the infotainment system panel
– Under a small cover in the passenger-side lower glove compartment
– Or on the back of the touchscreen unit (accessed via removal of the bezel from the dash)
Step 3: Insert the SD Card
Slide the SD card into the slot gently. Make sure it clicks into place and is fully seated.
Step 4: Power On the Infotainment System
Turn on the car and wait for the system to boot up. Some models will auto-detect the SD card and prompt you to install the software.
Step 5: Confirm the Installation
Follow on-screen instructions to install and activate the system. If no automatic prompt appears, go to the settings menu and verify whether navigation options appear.
If installation requires an update, you may also need to have your vehicle connected to a power source for 2–3 hours.
Maximizing Navigation Features on Entune 3.0
Once you’ve installed either the factory navigation or are using a smartphone solution like CarPlay or Android Auto, there are a few advanced tips you can use to ensure the system performs at its best.
Leveraging Connected Services
Toyota’s Entune 3.0 system supports a variety of connected services when linked with your smartphone:
- Pandora and Spotify music streaming
- Live traffic updates (via mobile network)
- Weather
- News
- Restaurant and fuel station lookup
These can provide deeper context when using Google Maps or Apple Maps, helping you understand real-time road conditions during navigation.
Updating SD Card Map Data
For factory navigation, map data updates are released regularly. Updating your navigation SD card ensures accuracy and new road developments.
Steps for updating:
- Visit www.toyotanavigation.com
- Order a SD card update with current map data (typically updated every 3–6 months)
- Receive card by mail, unplug the current SD card and replace with the updated one
- Restart the navigation system
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Navigation Option for Your 2020 Toyota Corolla
There are many ways to get navigation on your 2020 Toyota Corolla, and the best solution depends on:
– Budget
– Technical comfort level
– Desired level of integration
– Whether your vehicle supports factory navigation
If your car qualifies, the Toyota SD card navigation update provides native, reliable, and fully integrated turn-by-turn directions with support for voice guidance and real-time traffic via connected systems. For those without navigation-ready systems, or looking for newer options, smartphone-based systems like CarPlay or Android Auto offer both flexibility and advanced functionality through your existing phone.
Lastly, if you prefer a more modern interface or a larger screen experience with extra features, consider upgrading to an aftermarket head unit with built-in GPS. While this requires professional installation and upfront costs, many drivers find the enhanced experience worth the investment.
Now that you know how to get navigation on your 2020 Toyota Corolla, you can make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle and driving needs. Be sure to check your infotainment system compatibility and get in touch with your local Toyota dealership for an SD card if applicable — otherwise, enjoy using your phone-based apps for a seamless driving experience.
No matter which path you take, having turn-by-turn navigation can significantly enhance your driving efficiency, safety, and overall enjoyment on the road. Safe travels!
1. Can I add navigation to my 2020 Toyota Corolla if it didn’t come with it from the factory?
Yes, you can add navigation to your 2020 Toyota Corolla even if it wasn’t equipped with it at the time of purchase. Toyota offers an available navigation system as part of its premiumAudio Multimedia package, which can be installed as an accessory at a Toyota dealership. If your vehicle has the standard Toyota Entune infotainment system, it doesn’t support built-in navigation, but you can either upgrade the infotainment unit or use a portable solution such as a smartphone mount with apps like Google Maps or Waze.
Upgrading through a dealership ensures compatibility and retains the factory look of your dashboard. However, the cost can be significant depending on the package selected. Alternatively, using a smartphone paired with Bluetooth audio and a quality windshield mount is a cost-effective way to gain GPS navigation without modifying the vehicle’s original components. This method offers flexibility, allowing you to update your navigation app periodically without any hardware changes.
2. How do I check if my 2020 Toyota Corolla already has built-in navigation?
To determine whether your 2020 Toyota Corolla has built-in navigation, start by inspecting the vehicle’s infotainment screen. If you own a trim level with the Toyota Premium Audio Multimedia system (such as the XLE or Limited), there’s a good chance your car includes a navigation system. Look for a “Navigation” option in the home menu of the touchscreen display or check the vehicle’s owner’s manual under the list of features and audio system descriptions.
You can also verify your vehicle’s specifications online using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through Toyota’s official website or third-party automotive sites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book. Additionally, visiting a Toyota dealership and consulting with a sales or service representative can give you a definitive answer. If your car doesn’t have the navigation feature, there are viable alternatives, including smartphone apps and aftermarket GPS units.
3. What does the Toyota Premium Audio Multimedia system include besides navigation?
The Toyota Premium Audio Multimedia system offered on select 2020 Corolla trims includes several enhanced features beyond built-in navigation. Among these are a larger touchscreen display (usually 8 inches), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM satellite radio, cloud-based voice recognition, and advanced app integration such as Slacker Radio, iHeartRadio, and Google Play Music. It’s designed to provide a more connected and immersive in-car experience.
Additionally, the system features enhanced audio quality with a JBL premium sound system, a built-in backup camera display, and compatibility with smart devices via Bluetooth and USB. Toyota’s system also supports over-the-air updates, allowing the software to stay fresh with new features and improvements over time. This multimedia package is ideal for drivers seeking a modern driving experience with comprehensive functionality beyond what the standard Entune system offers.
4. Is Toyota’s built-in navigation system better than using my smartphone?
Toyota’s built-in navigation system offers advantages such as seamless integration with the vehicle’s display, clear turn-by-turn directions, and compatibility with other vehicle systems like the backup camera and audio controls. Since it’s designed specifically for use in a moving vehicle, it often includes larger text and voice-guided navigation for safer use. Also, there’s no need to mount a phone or use mobile data, which can be a benefit in areas with weak cellular reception.
However, smartphone navigation apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze provide more frequent updates, community-contributed traffic alerts, and a broader range of route customization. These apps also allow for personalization and track frequently visited locations tied to your account, which can be more convenient. For most drivers, the convenience and real-time responsiveness of smartphone navigation can outweigh the built-in system’s benefits unless integration and aesthetic appeal are high priorities.
5. How much does it cost to add navigation to a 2020 Toyota Corolla?
The cost of adding the Toyota Premium Audio Multimedia system with navigation to a 2020 Corolla can vary depending on the dealership, trim level, and whether the installation is done under warranty. Typically, the package ranges between $1,500 and $2,500 when added at the time of purchase or installed later. This includes the cost of the hardware and professional installation.
Alternatively, if you opt for an aftermarket navigation headunit, the price can range from $200 to $800 before installation. These units often come with navigation pre-installed, but they may sacrifice the factory aesthetic and warranty coverage. It’s essential to weigh budget considerations, compatibility, and your preferences in tech integration before choosing the best route for adding navigation to your vehicle.
6. Are there any subscription fees for using Toyota’s navigation system?
Toyota does not typically charge a monthly subscription fee for the built-in navigation system itself on the 2020 Corolla. However, some enhanced features of the Toyota Audio system, such as connected services, remote app access, and certain cloud-based services, may require a paid subscription after an initial trial period. Navigation map updates may also necessitate a fee depending on the scenario.
Map data for the unit may need occasional updating, which can sometimes be offered for free, but often requires purchasing the latest map database for a one-time fee, usually around $150 to $250. These updates are not mandatory but can improve the system’s accuracy over time. In contrast, smartphone-based navigation updates are often free, making this a consideration when choosing between OEM and phone-based solutions.
7. Can I update the navigation maps on my 2020 Toyota Corolla myself?
Updating the navigation maps on the 2020 Toyota Corolla with the Premium Audio Multimedia system typically requires either visiting a Toyota dealership or using an update kit provided by Toyota. Map updates are often distributed on USB drives or SD cards and can be completed using the vehicle’s port or built-in update feature. Toyota provides instructions on how to do this through their support center, and while it’s possible to perform the update at home, it requires obtaining the latest map data from the manufacturer.
You can purchase the latest map updates directly through Toyota’s official website or customer support. Following the proper procedures is essential to avoid damaging the system during the update. Some owners choose to skip OEM updates to avoid additional costs, instead relying on periodic smartphone navigation for the most updated road and traffic information. However, if you prefer the aesthetic and functionality of a built-in system, investing in the official map updates can be beneficial.