Firstly, the US cable works fine with my iPhone XS Max. The ES and my NX both recognise the iPhone in the infotainment system. You need to remove the rubber USB cover first (don’t worry, it clips back on). The USB end of the cable works either side like Apple’s lightning cable and, yes, you can close the lid! But it’s a tight fit. For example, when you press the lid release button you’ve got to give it a gentle hand to release as the cable has wedged it shut. The cable, however, is braided so should put up with some abuse.
Any questions - just ask.
And now the pics...