Ford Sync 3 makes its debut (pictures)

Welcome to the new version of Ford's Sync, which will debut in 2015.

Sync now takes on HVAC controls, effectively getting rid of MyFord Touch.

3D maps are now standard, thanks to the higher-performance processor.

The menu bar along the bottom makes switching between the various interfaces easy.

Searching by destinations -- either by touch or by voice -- is also much easier.

You can enter in a natural search, a full address, or just a type of category and Sync will figure it out.

Full results are easy to scroll through. Just tap one and you're off.

Pair with a phone and you can naturally make calls and messages easily enough.

Apps now show up as media sources, as they should.

Here's the interface of the improved NPR One app.

And Sirius XM, which looks quite similar.

Pairing phones is also easier now, and Sync 3 works with Android or iOS devices.

Again, Sync will arrive in 2015 on 2016 model year vehicles. Performance is hugely improved, making this a great update.