NXP S32K3 Series Automotive Microcontrollers

ARM Cortex-M7 based automotive MCUs with functional safety and security for body, gateway and powertrain applications. Original NXP parts with technical support from authorized distributor.

Product Overview

NXP S32K3 Series Automotive Microcontrollers

The S32K3 series is part of NXP's S32 Automotive Platform, designed specifically for demanding automotive applications requiring high performance and advanced safety features. These microcontrollers feature ARM Cortex-M7 cores with powerful processing capabilities, ideal for body electronics, gateway functions, and powertrain control applications.

This series is engineered to meet the most stringent automotive requirements, including ISO 26262 functional safety up to ASIL D, AEC-Q100 qualification, and long-term availability commitments. The S32K3 series provides the performance and features needed for next-generation automotive applications.

Key Features:

  • ARM Cortex-M7 core up to 264 MHz
  • Motor Control Hardware Unit (MCHT)
  • Functional safety (ISO 26262) up to ASIL D
  • Security: hardware security module (HSM)
  • Memory: Up to 2.5MB Flash, 512KB SRAM
  • Connectivity: CAN-FD, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet
  • Package: LQFP100, BGA196, LQFP144
  • Temperature range: -40°C to +150°C

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Core Architecture ARM Cortex-M7
Max Clock Speed Up to 264 MHz
Flash Memory Up to 2.5 MB
SRAM Up to 512 KB
Connectivity CAN-FD (8), LIN (4), FlexRay, Ethernet
ADC 12-bit SAR, up to 24 channels
Package LQFP100, BGA196, LQFP144
Operating Temperature -40°C to +150°C

Availability & Pricing

Stock Status: Contact for current availability

MOQ: 1000 pieces for samples, 10000 pieces for production

Lead Time: 8-12 weeks standard, 12-16 weeks for large orders

Warranty: 2 year defect coverage with automotive-grade quality

Alternative Options

Looking for different features or performance? Consider these alternatives:

  • S32K144 - For applications with lower performance requirements
  • S32G274A - For high-performance gateway applications
  • S32V234 - For vision processing applications

Applications

Body Control Modules

Centralized control of lights, windows, doors, and seats.

Automotive Gateways

Communication hubs connecting different vehicle networks.

Powertrain Control

Engine and transmission control units.

Motor Control

Electric motor control for pumps, fans, and actuators.

Technical Documentation

Datasheet

Download Datasheet

Reference Manual

Download Manual

Evaluation Board

EVK Info

Application Notes

AN Collection

Automotive Grade Features

Functional Safety

Designed to support ISO 26262 ASIL D. Includes error correction code (ECC), memory built-in self-test (MBIST), and central redundancy management.

Hardware Security

Integrated hardware security module (HSM) with cryptographic accelerators, secure bootloader, and protected key storage.

Automotive Qualification

AEC-Q100 qualified, meeting automotive industry reliability and quality standards.

Long Term Availability

Guaranteed 15+ year availability program for automotive applications.

FAQ

Q: What functional safety features does the S32K3 series support?

A: The S32K3 series is designed to support ISO 26262 functional safety up to ASIL D. It includes hardware safety features like ECC memory protection, MBIST, central redundancy management, and safe state I/Os.

Q: How does the S32K3 series compare to the S32K1xx series?

A: The S32K3 series has a more powerful ARM Cortex-M7 core (vs M4 in S32K1xx), higher clock speeds (up to 264 MHz vs 112 MHz), more memory, and enhanced safety features for higher ASIL levels. The S32K3 is designed for more demanding automotive applications.

Q: What automotive networks does this MCU support?

A: The S32K3 series includes multiple automotive network interfaces: up to 8x CAN-FD, 4x LIN, FlexRay, and Ethernet. This makes it ideal for gateway and body control applications requiring multiple communication protocols.

Q: What's the temperature range for these automotive MCUs?

A: The S32K3 series is qualified for automotive applications with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C, suitable for demanding automotive environments.

Selection Guide

The S32K3 Series is recommended for applications requiring:

  • High-performance ARM Cortex-M7 processing (up to 264 MHz)
  • Advanced functional safety (ISO 26262 ASIL D)
  • Multiple automotive network interfaces
  • Motor control hardware acceleration
  • Automotive-grade reliability and long-term availability

For applications with lower performance needs, consider the S32K1xx series. For vision processing applications, consider the S32V2xx series. For high-performance gateway applications, consider the S32G series.

View Complete Selection Guide

Related Products

S32K344

Specific variant with balanced features for general applications.

View Product

S32G Series

Higher performance automotive processors for gateway applications.

View Product

S32V2xx

Vision processors for ADAS applications.

View Product

Get Support

Our automotive-certified NXP FAEs are available to help with your design-in process. Contact us for:

  • Functional safety design guidance
  • Reference designs and schematics
  • Software development support
  • Gateway implementation expertise
Contact Our Experts