What year does Lexus have adaptive cruise control?
Lexus first offered adaptive cruise control with its Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) in the mid-2000s, with the earliest availability around the 2004 model year on select flagship and SUV models. Since then, the feature has become more common across the lineup and is now typically bundled with the Lexus Safety System+ suite.
What DRCC is and why it matters
Adaptive cruise control uses radar to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed to match traffic conditions. Lexus branded this technology as Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and has steadily refined it over multiple generations to include stop-and-go functionality and integration with collision-prevention systems.
Origins and early rollout
The initial introduction of DRCC in Lexus vehicles began in the mid-2000s. The 2004 model year is commonly cited as the first appearance of DRCC on select Lexus models, notably including the LS 430 sedan and RX 330 SUV, as part of a broader push to bring advanced driver-assistance features to the luxury segment. This early rollout was limited to certain trims and regions, with wider availability following in subsequent years.
Timeline highlights illustrate the progression of availability:
- 2004 model year: DRCC offered on select Lexus vehicles such as LS 430 and RX 330 (optional on some trims).
- Mid to late 2000s: Expanded to additional model lines and trims across more markets.
- 2010s: DRCC refined, often bundled with enhanced safety packages and pre-collision systems, and increasingly offered as standard or near-standard in many models.
These early years marked the transition from experimental features in luxury cars to a standard expectation in newer Lexus models, with the technology becoming more robust and widely available over time.
Current availability across the Lexus lineup
Today, dynamic radar cruise control is widely available across most Lexus models as part of modern safety packages. Availability can vary by region, trim level, and model year, but the feature is commonly included or offered as an upgrade in recent generations.
- Model families frequently offering DRCC (as part of Lexus Safety System+ or similar packages): ES, UX, NX, RX, LS, LC, IS, RC.
- In many markets, DRCC is standard on higher trims or mid-/upper-level packages and optional on base trims, with ongoing improvements in stop-and-go driving and integration with other safety technologies.
- Regional differences may apply, and older models outside major markets may not have DRCC.
In practical terms, drivers today can expect DRCC to be part of the safety suite on most recent Lexus models, reflecting the brand’s shift toward comprehensive driver-assistance features across its lineup.
How to identify and activate DRCC on a Lexus
To determine if your Lexus has DRCC, check the vehicle’s safety features list in the owner's manual or on the window sticker. Look for terms like “Dynamic Radar Cruise Control,” “Adaptive Cruise Control,” or “Lexus Safety System+” in the equipment description. Activation is typically via a stalk or dashboard controls to set speed and following distance; the system will then adjust speed automatically to maintain the chosen gap in appropriate traffic conditions.
Notes by market and model
Exact availability and naming conventions can vary by country, model generation, and trim. If you’re shopping or purchasing a used Lexus, verify with the dealer or look up the specific model’s feature list for DRCC and related safety technology.
Summary
Lexus introduced adaptive cruise control with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control in the mid-2000s, with the earliest widely cited offerings around the 2004 model year on select LS 430 and RX 330 models. Over the next decade, DRCC expanded across more models and became a standard component of newer safety packages. Today, DRCC is widely available across most Lexus models as part of the Lexus Safety System+ suite, though exact availability can vary by model year, trim, and market.
Does the 2019 Lexus RX 350 have adaptive cruise control?
Advanced safety features include lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and smart stop technology.
Does Lexus have adaptive cruise control?
Yes, Lexus has adaptive cruise control, which is known as Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). It has been a standard feature on all Lexus vehicles since the 2020 model year as part of the Lexus Safety System+ suite. DRCC uses radar and camera sensors to automatically adjust your vehicle's speed and maintain a set following distance from the vehicle ahead.
You can watch this video to learn how to use Lexus Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: 59sDietrich's Car ChannelYouTube · Mar 20, 2023
How it works
- Detects and adjusts: The system uses a grille-mounted radar and an in-vehicle camera to detect the vehicle in front of you. It then automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a set following distance.
- Maintains speed: It can maintain a constant speed, but it will slow down and speed up to match the flow of traffic.
- Adjustable following distance: You can adjust the following distance to be short, medium, or long, depending on your preference.
- Full-speed range: Some newer systems, like Full-Speed Range DRCC, can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and then resume when the vehicle ahead starts to move again.
Important considerations
- Not a substitute for driver attention: The system is a driver-assist feature, not a self-driving system. You should always pay attention to the road and keep your hands on the steering wheel.
- Doesn't read all signs: The system does not read traffic lights or stop signs, so you must be prepared to take control when approaching them.
- Environmental limitations: It is not recommended to use the system in heavy rain or icy conditions, as it may not perform as expected.
- Other vehicle shapes: The system may not work as expected when following unusually shaped vehicles, such as motorcycles or large trucks.
What year did Lexus come out with adaptive cruise control?
Vehicle models supporting adaptive cruise control
| Make | Full speed range ACC |
|---|---|
| Models | |
| Land Rover | Range Rover (L405) (2013+) |
| Lincoln | Continental (2017+), MKZ (2017+) |
| Lexus | LS 460 (2006+), GS hybrid (2013+), NX (2015+), NX hybrid (2015+), GS non-hybrid (2016+), RX (2016+), RX hybrid (2016+), UX (2019+), ES (2019+) |
Does the 2017 Lexus RX 350 have adaptive cruise control?
The big news for 2017 is that the Lexus Safety System+ is now standard equipment and includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and lane-keeping assist.
