What Is Subaru EyeSight Technology and How Does It Work?
January 31 2025,
Subaru has built a strong reputation for safety, and a key part of that commitment is Subaru EyeSight Technology. This advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) is designed to help prevent accidents by monitoring the road, alerting the driver to potential dangers, and even assisting in braking and steering when necessary. Available on most 2024 Subaru models in Canada, EyeSight provides an extra layer of protection, making it one of the most comprehensive safety systems in its class.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what Subaru EyeSight is, how it works, and what features it offers to help keep Canadian drivers and passengers safe.
What Is Subaru EyeSight Technology?
Subaru EyeSight is an advanced safety suite that uses a pair of stereo cameras mounted at the top of the windshield to monitor traffic, detect obstacles, and assist with driver awareness. Unlike radar-based systems found in some competitor vehicles, EyeSight relies primarily on camera-based visual data, allowing it to detect vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and lane markings with high precision.
First introduced in Canada in 2012, EyeSight has continuously evolved and is now a standard or available feature on most Subaru models, including the Subaru Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, Impreza, Ascent, and WRX.
How Does Subaru EyeSight Work?
EyeSight works by constantly scanning the road ahead using two colour cameras positioned near the rearview mirror. These cameras act like an extra set of eyes for the driver, identifying vehicles, lane markings, and potential hazards. When necessary, EyeSight can alert the driver or even take corrective action to prevent a collision.
Here’s a breakdown of how the system functions:
- Real-Time Monitoring
- The stereo cameras continuously scan the road ahead, analyzing the position of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- The system can detect lane markings, road signs, and traffic flow, helping it predict potential hazards.
- Driver Alerts
- If EyeSight detects a potential collision, it will warn the driver through visual and audible alerts.
- If the driver does not react in time, the system can engage automatic emergency braking.
- Adaptive Assistance
- EyeSight assists with throttle management, braking, and steering to reduce collision risks.
Features like Adaptive Cruise Control help maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
Key Features of Subaru EyeSight
Subaru EyeSight is packed with advanced safety features designed to prevent accidents and improve driving confidence. Here are some of the system’s core capabilities:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
EyeSight’s Adaptive Cruise Control goes beyond traditional cruise control by adjusting your speed automatically. When activated:
- The system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- If traffic slows down, the system will reduce speed to match the flow.
- Once traffic clears, the system will accelerate back to the preset speed.
This feature is particularly useful for long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety.
- Pre-Collision Braking
If EyeSight detects an imminent collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist:
- The system will first issue visual and audible warnings.
- If the driver does not react in time, EyeSight will apply the brakes automatically to help reduce or avoid the impact.
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
This feature helps prevent unintentional lane drifting:
- If the vehicle begins to drift without using a turn signal, EyeSight will alert the driver.
- The system detects lane markings and provides gentle steering assistance to keep the vehicle centered.
- Lane Keep Assist
At speeds above 60 km/h, Lane Keep Assist helps keep the vehicle within its lane:
- The system gently adjusts steering to maintain lane position.
- This feature is especially useful on highways and long road trips.
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management
This feature helps prevent acceleration-related accidents:
- If EyeSight detects an object in front of the vehicle when the driver accelerates, it will reduce engine power to avoid a potential collision.
- This can prevent accidents in parking lots or traffic situations where a driver may unintentionally press the gas pedal too hard.
- Lead Vehicle Start Alert
- When stopped in traffic, EyeSight will notify the driver if the vehicle ahead starts moving but the driver hasn’t reacted.
This helps prevent unnecessary delays and improves traffic flow.
Which Subaru Models in Canada Have EyeSight?
As of 2024, Subaru EyeSight is standard on most new Subaru models sold in Canada. It is available or standard on the following vehicles:
|
Subaru Model |
EyeSight Availability |
|---|---|
|
Subaru Outback |
Standard |
|
Subaru Forester |
Standard |
|
Subaru Crosstrek |
Standard on most trims |
|
Subaru Legacy |
Standard |
|
Subaru Impreza |
Standard |
|
Subaru Ascent |
Standard |
|
Subaru WRX |
Available on automatic models |
|
Subaru BRZ |
Not available |
Most manual transmission models do not come with EyeSight, as the system is primarily designed for automatic-equipped vehicles.
How EyeSight Benefits Canadian Drivers
Subaru EyeSight is especially beneficial for Canadian drivers, given the country’s diverse and sometimes challenging driving conditions. Here’s why it’s a great feature for Canada:
- Increased Safety in Urban Traffic
- With busy city streets in places like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, EyeSight helps prevent rear-end collisions and pedestrian accidents.
- Useful in Harsh Winter Conditions
- Pre-Collision Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control provide extra security on icy roads, helping prevent skids and collisions.
- The system works well in low-visibility conditions, such as heavy snow or rain.
- Reduced Driver Fatigue on Long Highway Trips
On long drives across provinces, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist help drivers stay alert and maintain a safe following distance.
Limitations of Subaru EyeSight
While EyeSight is one of the most advanced driver assistance systems on the market, it does have some limitations:
- Performance may be affected in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow, fog, or dirt-covered windshields.
- It does not replace an attentive driver—it is an assist system, not an autonomous driving feature.
Not available on manual transmission models, which may be a drawback for some enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts: Is Subaru EyeSight Worth It?
Subaru EyeSight is a highly advanced driver assistance system that enhances safety, reduces driver fatigue, and helps prevent accidents. With features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Keep Assist, it’s an excellent tool for Canadian drivers facing varying road conditions.
For those considering a new 2024 Subaru, choosing a model equipped with EyeSight is a smart decision that adds an extra layer of protection and confidence on the road. Whether you're commuting in the city, tackling winter roads, or embarking on long road trips, EyeSight makes driving safer and more enjoyable.
If you’re in the market for a Subaru SUV or sedan in Canada, be sure to check if your preferred model includes EyeSight Technology—it’s one of the best driver assistance systems available today.
