Google Maps Introduces New Car Icons That Users Will Love

Waze has long been the king of navigation customization, offering everything from incident reporting to unique vehicle icons. Google Maps, on the other hand, has traditionally lagged behind in personalization. However, with Google's recent push to enhance its navigation experience—evidenced by the addition of incident reporting on Android Auto and CarPlay—the company is now focusing on smaller but meaningful improvements.

One of the latest updates to Google Maps is the introduction of new vehicle icons, expanding the selection beyond the traditional blue arrow and generic car icons. Users can now choose from a wider range of vehicles, including a sedan, pickup truck, SUV, sports car, and a compact city car that closely resembles the all-electric Honda e. Google has also introduced more color customization options for these icons, allowing drivers to better personalize their experience.

A Sleek and Subtle Approach to Customization

Unlike Waze, where some vehicle icons can appear oversized and out of place on the navigation screen, Google Maps has taken a more refined approach. The new icons fit seamlessly into the interface, ensuring they look great on both smartphone screens and CarPlay displays. Screenshots taken on an iPhone 15 Pro confirm that the icons are well-proportioned and visually appealing across different devices.

How to Change Your Vehicle Icon in Google Maps

Switching from the default blue arrow to one of the new vehicle icons is simple:

1. Start navigation by selecting a destination in Google Maps.
2. Once navigation is active, tap the current vehicle icon on the screen.
3. A new customization menu will appear, allowing you to choose your preferred vehicle and color.
4. Your selection will be applied immediately, and if you're using CarPlay, the new icon will also appear on your car’s display.

However, keep in mind that if CarPlay is already running, you won't be able to change the vehicle icon mid-navigation, as Google Maps does not display the active map on your phone when mirrored to the car’s infotainment system.

How to Get the New Google Maps Vehicle Icons

To access the new icons, make sure you’re running the latest version of Google Maps. Simply head over to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play Store (Android) and update the app to the newest release.

With this small but thoughtful update, Google Maps is stepping up its customization game, making the navigation experience feel more personal and engaging—one icon at a time. 🚗✨