When did Highlander get blind spot monitoring?
The Toyota Highlander, a popular midsize SUV, introduced blind spot monitoring as an available feature starting with the 2014 model year. This advanced safety technology helps drivers detect vehicles in their blind spots, improving awareness and reducing the risk of accidents.
Blind Spot Monitoring in the Toyota Highlander
Blind spot monitoring, also known as BSM, is a driver assistance system that uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots. When a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, the system alerts the driver, typically with a visual indicator in the side mirror or a warning light on the side mirror.
The Toyota Highlander first offered blind spot monitoring as an optional feature on select trim levels starting with the 2014 model year. This feature was part of the available Technology Package, which also included other advanced safety technologies such as rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning.
Over the years, blind spot monitoring has become a more common and sought-after feature in the Highlander. As of the 2023 model year, blind spot monitoring is standard on all Highlander trim levels, ensuring that drivers can benefit from this important safety technology.
The Importance of Blind Spot Monitoring
Blind spot monitoring is a valuable safety feature that can help prevent accidents and improve overall driving awareness. Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot see directly, and they can be particularly dangerous when changing lanes or merging into traffic.
- Increased Awareness: Blind spot monitoring alerts drivers to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots, allowing them to make safer lane changes and maneuvers.
- Reduced Accidents: By detecting vehicles in blind spots, blind spot monitoring can help prevent side-impact collisions and other types of accidents caused by blind spot-related issues.
- Improved Confidence: Drivers with blind spot monitoring feel more confident and secure when changing lanes or merging, as they have an additional layer of safety to rely on.
The inclusion of blind spot monitoring in the Toyota Highlander, starting in 2014, has been a significant safety enhancement for this popular SUV, helping to protect both the driver and other road users.
