How Subaru's Hands-Free Driving Assist Works

Enhanced Safety and Convenience with Subaru’s EyeSight Advanced Driver Assistance System

The Subaru Outback has always been a rugged, practical vehicle that may not win any beauty contests, but it has consistently evolved to meet the needs of modern drivers. In recent years, the brand has made significant strides in improving its driver-assistance technology, particularly through the EyeSight system. Now, with the introduction of the fifth-generation EyeSight ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), Subaru is taking highway driving to a new level of convenience and safety.

One of the most notable features of the 2026 Subaru Outback is the Hands-Free Driving Assist, which is part of the EyeSight system. This feature allows for limited hands-free driving on certain highways, though it's important to note that local laws may restrict this functionality. The system can maintain speed, navigate curves, and change lanes at speeds up to 85 mph, making it a Level 2 autonomous driving system. While it doesn’t fully replace the driver, it significantly reduces the workload during long highway journeys.

How Does It Work?

Subaru has upgraded the EyeSight system with three new front-facing cameras and advanced radar sensors. Two of these cameras are positioned near the rearview mirror, while the third is a wide-angle mono camera designed to detect cyclists and pedestrians. These enhancements allow the system to better recognize potential hazards on the road, leading to improved reaction times and safer driving experiences.

In addition to these hardware upgrades, the Gen 5 EyeSight system includes several other key features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering: Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and keeps the car centered in its lane.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.
• Automatic Emergency Steering: Can steer the vehicle away from potential collisions.
• Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management: Automatically applies brakes or limits engine power to avoid or mitigate crashes.
• Blind Spot Detection: Monitors the vehicle’s blind spots and warns the driver when changing lanes.
• Automatic Emergency Stop Assistance: If the driver becomes unresponsive, the system can move the car to the emergency lane and even call for help.

Additional Safety Features

Beyond the core functions of the EyeSight system, there are several other enhancements that make the 2026 Outback a more intelligent and safer vehicle. For instance, the system includes sonar sensors that detect objects behind the vehicle, which is especially useful when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. Additionally, the system now offers steering wheel haptic feedback, providing tactile alerts directly to the driver’s hands for increased awareness.

Subaru has also focused on reducing driver fatigue during long trips. By automating many of the routine tasks involved in highway driving, such as maintaining speed and changing lanes, the system helps drivers stay alert and focused. This is particularly beneficial for those who frequently travel on long stretches of road.

A Step Forward in Automotive Technology

The EyeSight system has consistently been praised for its effectiveness, and the Gen 5 iteration is no exception. In a recent AAA study, the previous version of EyeSight performed strongly, and the updated system has only improved upon that foundation. Reviews of the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid have highlighted the system as "top of its class," further reinforcing its reputation.

With the 2026 Outback, Subaru is setting a new standard for driver assistance technology. The combination of advanced sensors, intuitive alerts, and hands-free capabilities makes the EyeSight system one of the most comprehensive in the industry. Whether you're looking for greater safety, reduced fatigue, or simply a more convenient driving experience, the Gen 5 EyeSight system delivers on all fronts.