When did the Subaru Forester get adaptive cruise control?
The Forester first gained adaptive cruise control (ACC) as part of Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology with the 2014 model year in the United States. Since then, EyeSight ACC has evolved across generations and markets, expanding its availability and capabilities.
Timeline: ACC in the Forester
The following timeline highlights when ACC became available to Forester buyers and how the feature broadened over successive model years.
- 2014 model year (U.S.): Forester introduces EyeSight with adaptive cruise control, initially offered on higher trims as an option.
- 2015–2016: Availability widens to more trims and markets, with ongoing software refinements for smoother speed adjustment and following distance control.
- 2017–2020: EyeSight and ACC are further refined across Forester generations, with updates aimed at improved performance, integration with other driver-assist features, and broader market availability.
These milestones show how Subaru integrated ACC into the Forester as part of the EyeSight suite, building on the technology’s earlier rollout in other models and refining it in subsequent years.
Background on EyeSight and ACC basics
EyeSight uses forward-facing stereo cameras to monitor traffic and pedestrians, enabling adaptive cruise control that maintains a set following distance, as well as features such as pre-collision braking and lane-keeping assistance. Availability and exact functionality vary by model year, trim level, and market.
How to tell if your Forester has ACC
To confirm whether a specific Forester is equipped with ACC, check the vehicle’s window sticker or owner's manual, look for EyeSight/ACC indicators on the dashboard or cruise-control stalk, or ask a Subaru dealer to verify the equipment on a given VIN.
In summary, adaptive cruise control arrived in the Subaru Forester with the 2014 model year in the U.S. as part of the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, and subsequent years saw broader availability and improvements to the feature.
Summary: The Forester gained adaptive cruise control starting in 2014, with ongoing enhancements in following distance control and integration across later model years and markets. If you’re shopping today, ACC is a common feature, though exact capabilities depend on year and trim.
Which Subaru Forester has 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.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Forester?
7 Subaru Forester years you need to avoid
- 2001 Subaru Forester.
- 2003 Subaru Forester.
- 2006 Subaru Forester.
- 2012 Subaru Forester.
- 2014 Subaru Forester.
- 2018 Subaru Forester.
- 2020 Subaru Forester.
What year did Subaru start 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.
Does the 2016 Subaru Forester have adaptive cruise control?
Adding to standard features that include electronic traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, and a rearview camera, the 2016 Subaru Forester can be equipped with the EyeSight system, which adds adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alerts, and other cutting-edge features.
