Hey you!
The USB hub and manual update to get CarPlay was only required for 2016 models - you'll be fine. Both the software and hardware were present in 2017-onwards.
Imitation is truly the sincerest form of flattery. I'm not even mad, the S550's shape looks good on the BMW (though It'll probably cost the equivalent of two fully-loaded GTs)
OEM Nav will still have its need until the time mobile data signal covers 100% of the global landscape.
Even in Southern California, data can disappear in canyons, mountains, and deserts.
Wireless CarPlay requires Bluetooth for an initial handshake, and WiFi (in hotspot mode)for an ongoing connection. Based on this article, it sounds like there is a specific chipset or something required to support this interactivity...
I stand corrected. My argument otherwise still stands. The "history" argument is utter bull. If you want to argue that, there's a wealth of improvements over the past half century to argue "history" over.
Past "Bullitt" vehicles have come with an optional auto. History is subjective. and Yes, it is Ford Performance. Fiesta ST. Focus ST. Focus RS. Shelby GT350.
It still really pisses me off that Ford Performance keeps on with this "performance vehicles can't have automatics" BS attitude. Pretty sure I'm not going to get another Ford after this. Even the Camaro ZL1 offers an auto.
I don't recall seeing it answered, but did you have to get the cluster programmed to the car somehow? In other Ford Cars I've tinkered with, the cluster was linked to the immobilization system, so that if you put in a different cluster without some sort of programming, the car wouldn't even turn...
JR3Z10849JB - 10 Speed Auto
JR3Z10849MB - 6 Speed Manual
JR3Z10849LB - 6 Speed Manual
JR3Z10849KB - 10 Speed Auto
What the differences between the two Manual/Auto versions are, I can't tell right now, the Ford Parts website does not specify 5.0 vs 2.3 for these part numbers.