Peter Banks If you’re in the market for a new car, chances are you’re looking for one that prioritizes safety features. One of the most advanced safety systems available in today’s cars is the Subaru EyeSight. But the question remains: is it worth the extra cost? In this article, we’ll explore the features and effectiveness of Subaru EyeSight to help you make an informed decision.
What is Subaru EyeSight?
Subaru EyeSight is an advanced driver assistance system that utilizes a set of cameras and sensors to monitor the road and react to potentially hazardous situations. The system was first introduced in 2008 and has since evolved to include more features and advancements. Some of the features included in the system are:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature allows the car to automatically adjust the speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of it.
- Lane Departure Warning: If the car starts to drift out of its lane, the driver is alerted with visual and/or auditory warnings.
- Pre-Collision Braking: In case of an impending collision, the system can apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact or avoid it altogether.
- Blind Spot Detection: If another car is in the driver’s blind spot, the system will alert the driver through a warning light or sound.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: When backing up, this feature alerts the driver if there is any potential traffic approaching from the sides.
How does Subaru EyeSight work?
Subaru EyeSight relies on two cameras mounted on either side of the rearview mirror, which constantly scan the road ahead. These cameras are capable of detecting objects and motion, and they provide information to the system’s computer, which can analyze it to detect potential hazards. The system operates in three main stages:
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Detection: EyeSight uses visual and auditory sensors to monitor the road and detect any potential hazards, including other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists.
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Analysis: The system’s computer analyzes the data from the cameras and determines if there is a potential hazard. If it detects a possible collision, it will alert the driver.
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Reaction: If the computer determines that a collision is imminent, the system will automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid the impact.
The effectiveness of Subaru EyeSight
Subaru EyeSight has consistently received high ratings from safety organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In fact, the IIHS has rated Subaru EyeSight as "superior" in frontal crash prevention, which is the highest possible rating. According to a study of real-world data by the IIHS, EyeSight reduced the rate of rear-end crashes with injuries by 85%.
EyeSight has also proven its effectiveness in avoiding collisions. In a test conducted by the University of Iowa, EyeSight-equipped cars were able to completely avoid collisions at speeds of up to 25 mph. At higher speeds, the system was still able to reduce the speed of impact and the severity of injuries.
Comparison to other advanced safety systems
While EyeSight is one of the most advanced safety systems in the market, it is not the only one. Other car manufacturers, such as Toyota and Honda, offer similar systems, and there are also third-party systems available for installation. One of the biggest advantages of EyeSight is that it is integrated into the Subaru car, which means that the system is fine-tuned to work seamlessly with the car’s other features.
Common criticisms and concerns
As with any advanced technology, there have been some concerns regarding EyeSight. One of the most common criticisms is that the system may give false alarms, such as when driving in heavy rain or snow. However, Subaru has addressed this issue by constantly updating the software and improving the system’s sensors.
Another concern is that the system may malfunction, which could lead to a collision. However, these instances are very rare, and Subaru provides a warranty for the system’s components.
Is Subaru EyeSight worth it?
So, the question remains: is Subaru EyeSight worth the extra cost? The answer depends on your individual priorities and budget. EyeSight is a sophisticated safety system that has proven its effectiveness in minimizing collisions and injuries. However, it is not a substitute for safe driving habits, and it may not be worth the added cost for some buyers.
If you prioritize safety features and are willing to pay extra for them, Subaru EyeSight is a great investment. It provides an extra layer of protection that can give you peace of mind on the road. Additionally, EyeSight may also provide a financial benefit through lower insurance premiums, as many insurers offer discounts for cars equipped with advanced safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Subaru EyeSight prevent all collisions?
A: No, EyeSight is not able to prevent all collisions, but it can significantly reduce the risk of them.
Q: What happens if the system malfunctions?
A: In the rare event that the system malfunctions, Subaru provides a warranty for the system’s components.
Q: Can EyeSight be turned off?
A: Yes, EyeSight can be turned off if the driver chooses to do so.
Q: Does EyeSight work in all driving conditions?
A: EyeSight is designed to work in most driving conditions, but it may give false alarms in heavy rain or snow.
Q: Is EyeSight worth the extra cost?
A: It depends on your individual priorities and budget. EyeSight is a sophisticated safety system that has proven its effectiveness, but it may not be worth the added cost for some buyers.
