What year did Subaru add adaptive cruise control?
Subaru first added adaptive cruise control as part of its EyeSight driver-assist system in the 2010 model year in the United States.
EyeSight uses stereo cameras to monitor traffic ahead and automatically adjust speed to maintain a safe following distance. Since its debut, Subaru has advanced the system and expanded its availability across more models and generations.
Initial rollout in the United States
Timeline highlights of Subaru's initial rollout in the U.S. market:
- 2010 model year: Adaptive cruise control with EyeSight introduced on the Subaru Legacy and Outback in the United States.
The 2010 rollout established EyeSight as a benchmark driver-assist system for Subaru, with adaptive cruise control forming a core component of that package.
What EyeSight is and how it works
EyeSight is Subaru's signature driver-assist suite that relies on dual forward-facing cameras to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and other obstacles. Adaptive cruise control uses this sensor data to maintain a driver-selected following distance by automatically adjusting throttle and braking. Depending on the model and year, the system can also integrate with features such as pre-collision braking and lane departure warnings, enhancing overall safety and convenience on the road.
How adaptive cruise control works in EyeSight
Adaptive cruise control monitors the traffic ahead and regulates speed to keep a set distance from the vehicle in front. If traffic slows, the system reduces throttle or applies braking; if the road clears, it can resume the preset speed, subject to the vehicle’s capabilities and driver settings.
Expansion across the Subaru lineup
Since the initial 2010 introduction, Subaru expanded EyeSight with adaptive cruise control to additional models and markets. Availability has varied by model year and region, with newer generations of EyeSight offering refinements such as improved braking, pedestrian detection, and integration with other safety features across more trims and models.
Summary
Subaru first added adaptive cruise control in the 2010 model year, debuting on the Legacy and Outback in the United States as part of the EyeSight system. Over time, EyeSight and its adaptive cruise control have become more widely available and continuously refined across Subaru’s lineup, reinforcing the brand’s emphasis on safety technology.
Which Subaru models have adaptive cruise control?
Nearly all Subaru models and trims come standard with EyeSight and Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, including some of our most popular models like the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and Impreza.
When did adaptive cruise control come out?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) emerged in the 1990s, with early versions appearing in Japan starting in 1992, but it wasn't until 1999 that a radar-based system capable of applying brakes was introduced in the U.S. market by Mercedes-Benz with the Distronic system.
- 1992: Mitsubishi launched a lidar-based "distance warning" system in Japan, which only warned the driver, but did not control the vehicle's speed.
- 1995: Mitsubishi introduced a "Preview Distance Control" that could control speed via the throttle and downshifting, but still could not apply the brakes.
- 1997: Toyota offered a similar laser-based system on its Celsior in Japan that could control speed but not braking.
- 1999: Mercedes-Benz introduced the first radar-assisted ACC with braking capability, called Distronic, on the S-Class and CL-Class in Europe. Jaguar also launched a radar-based ACC system that year.
- 2000: Toyota brought a laser-based ACC system to the U.S. market.
- 2005: The first American radar-based system that could also brake was introduced on the Toyota Avalon.
When did Subaru get adaptive cruise control?
1999: Subaru introduced world's first camera-based ACC on the Japanese-market Subaru Legacy Lancaster. 2000: BMW introduced radar "Active Cruise Control" in Europe on the BMW 7 Series - E38.
Can you add adaptive cruise control after purchase?
Yes, you can add adaptive cruise control after purchase, but it can be challenging and expensive. The process varies from simple software activations to more complex hardware installations requiring sensors, new modules, and wiring. The feasibility and cost depend heavily on your car's make, model, and year, with some vehicles being much more compatible with retrofitting than others.
This video demonstrates the process of retrofitting adaptive cruise control buttons to a Mercedes steering wheel: 59sRJAutomotiveYouTube · Jun 1, 2021
Factors that determine feasibility
- Vehicle Make and Model: Newer cars with existing safety features like collision avoidance may be easier to upgrade. Older cars, or those with simpler electrical systems, might be more straightforward for a DIY approach, but it's still a major undertaking.
- Pre-existing hardware: If your car is missing certain hardware, like a radar sensor or control modules, the cost and complexity will increase significantly. Some models may have all the necessary components but are simply disabled via software.
- DIY vs. Professional installation:
- DIY: Possible if you have a compatible aftermarket kit and extensive technical skills. It involves installing hardware and programming the system to work with your car's existing electronics, but may void your warranty.
- Professional installation: A dealership or specialist can do it, but they may refuse if there's no official factory procedure (e.g., some Porsche models). If they do, expect high costs ($3,000–$4,000 is not uncommon).
How to add adaptive cruise control
- Research compatibility: Look for aftermarket kits or software solutions specific to your car's make and model. Check online forums for owners who have successfully retrofitted the system to the same car.
- Assess cost and complexity: Get quotes for parts and labor. Be prepared for the possibility that the process might not be cost-effective compared to buying a car with the feature included.
- Consult a professional: Before making a purchase, consider consulting a professional or dealership to see if they can retrofit the system and what the associated costs and risks would be. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, offer software-based add-ons for certain models.
