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Guide to Adaptive Cruise Control

How this convenience feature works to reduce your stress on long drives

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is like traditional cruise control, but smarter. ACC systems allow you to set a desired speed until your vehicle encounters slower-moving traffic. Then it will brake to maintain a set distance from the car ahead. Once the traffic starts moving again or if there is no longer a car in the lane ahead, ACC will accelerate to resume the previous set speed. Although ACC systems may take some getting used to, our survey respondents told us they appreciated the stress relief the feature brings.

“I use the feature mostly on the freeway and in stop-and-go traffic. I find it reduces tension and fatigue,” wrote a 2020 Subaru Outback owner. A 2018 Audi Q5 driver agreed. “It is so nice to just set it and let the car worry about the traffic,” they told CR.

The systems use lasers, radar, cameras, or a combination of those. If traffic slows to a stop, most ACC systems will bring the car to a complete stop, then bring it back up to speed when traffic gets going again. Others work only within certain speeds and/or might not start to accelerate automatically.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC): Cruise control that also assists with acceleration and/or braking to maintain a driver-selected gap to the vehicle in front. Some systems can come to a stop and continue while others cannot. If the car comes to a full stop, you may have to press the accelerator or a button on the steering wheel to start moving again.

Not all systems work at low speeds, so drivers who plan to use ACC in slow traffic should check the limitations of any system they plan to buy. These particular systems will often have the words “traffic jam” or “stop and go” in their name.

These features are usually activated using a button on the steering wheel with the image of a car next to a speedometer with an arrow pointing at it. A conventional cruise control system does not automatically keep a set distance away from the car in front, and it is indicated by a similar logo without the car next to the speedometer. A tip to know if your car has adaptive cruise control or regular cruise control is to look for the “gap distance” button, which usually shows a symbol of a car with horizontal distance bars in front. This button will determine how much space your car leaves between its front bumper and the rear of the car it is following.

In our most recent survey, we asked CR members to rate their experiences with the advanced safety and driver assistance systems on their model-year 2017 to 2022 cars. Respondents answered questions about their satisfaction with the systems. The survey covered about 47,000 vehicles. Most respondents told us they were “very satisfied” with ACC. Satisfaction was higher for older drivers.

OVERALL SATISFACTION

What to Look For in an Adaptive Cruise Control System

Every ACC system works slightly differently, says Kelly Funkhouser, manager for vehicle technology at CR. Some do a better job than others at recognizing merging traffic and automatically apply the brakes, while others wait too long to slow your car, requiring the driver to take control—especially when a vehicle in front of you cuts you off with a close merge.

“Most ACC systems can only be set to speeds above 20 mph but will slow the vehicle to speeds below that in stop-and-go traffic,” she says. “There are a few systems out there that don’t bring the car all the way to a stop but instead just shut off at low speeds. That can be dangerous when you’re traveling behind another slowing vehicle.” She recommends reading the automaker’s website closely and learning about the speed ranges before using ACC while on your test drive.

ACC is meant for convenience, not as a replacement for an alert driver, Funkhouser says. So don’t use adaptive cruise control as an excuse to get distracted. “Just because the car is controlling your speed doesn’t mean that you can check out,” she says. “These systems do not do well at detecting or slowing for vehicles ahead if you approach them at a high rate of speed. The driver should always be monitoring the surrounding traffic and looking ahead for potential hazards.”

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry .

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How do I operate the adaptive cruise control in my vehicle?

Adaptive cruise control supplements conventional cruise control with an active vehicle-to-vehicle distance control feature. designed for use on freeways and express ways, in vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, your car automatically acceler... sep 24, 2022 • knowledge, new section, only answer.

Adaptive cruise control supplements conventional cruise control with an active vehicle-to-vehicle distance control feature. Designed for use on freeways and express ways, in vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, your car automatically accelerates or decelerates in order to maintain a preset following distance from the vehicle traveling directly ahead of you.

To activate the system, press the "ON/OFF" button at the end of the stalk on the lower end of the right side of the steering wheel. The radar-ready indicator will appear in the Multi Information Display.

Accelerate or decelerate to your intended speed, then press the stalk down to set it. If you want to go faster, push the stalk upward and hold until you've reached the desired speed and then release it. Or, if you want to slow down, push the stalk down and hold as you decelerate, then release it once you've reached the desired speed.

To cancel cruise control, tap the brakes, pull the stalk towards you or turn the system off with the ON/OFF button.

Adaptive Cruise Control was designed to maintain the preset distance between your car and the car driving in the same lane directly ahead of you.

When it’s active, it automatically adjusts for changes in the speed of the vehicle traveling directly ahead of you in order to maintain the vehicle-to-vehicle distance you set.

In the event that you would like to change the preset distance between vehicles, you can do so by using the radar range button located on the lower right side of the steering wheel. Simply press the button repeatedly to cycle through the ranges available. You'll find them displayed on the Multi Information Display. And finally, you can disable the distance holding feature by pushing the cruise control stalk away and holding it until the indicator disappears and the conventional cruise control indicator lights up.

Please click here  to view a video.

Disclaimer: Adaptive Cruise Control is designed to assist the driver and is not a substitute for safe and attentive driving practices. See your  Owner's Manual for important instructions and cautions.

Not all features are available on all vehicles and model grades. Please see your Owner's Manual for further details and important safety information.

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What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?

By Rick Popely

Like regular cruise control systems that have been around for decades, adaptive cruise control keeps a vehicle cruising at a set speed selected by the driver. The system also maintains a set distance from the car ahead and can slow or, in some models, stop a vehicle.

Adaptive cruise control first appeared in the U.S. in the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and now is widely available on lower-priced vehicles as well as luxury models. 

Related: Which Cars Have Self-Driving Features for 2021?

Carmakers identify their systems with different names such as Distronic, Dynamic Cruise Control, Smart Cruise Control and Intelligent Cruise Control, but all of the systems use radar and cameras to monitor the road ahead. With ACC, the driver can select a cruising speed and a distance to be maintained from a vehicle ahead in the same lane, usually with a choice of short, medium or long intervals.

If the road ahead is clear, the vehicle will cruise at the selected speed, but if a vehicle comes within the set range, ACC will reduce engine power and, in some cases, apply the brakes to maintain the set distance. ACC will accelerate back to the set speed once the vehicle ahead speeds up or moves out of the way.

Differences Between Systems

More advanced ACC systems offered by some manufacturers include a stop-and-go feature that can bring the vehicle to a stop without canceling the cruise control. Some will then accelerate automatically if traffic ahead starts moving in less than three seconds, though that can vary by automaker. If the vehicle remains stopped for more than three seconds, the driver typically has to tap the accelerator or press the cruise control resume switch to get going.

Other ACC systems will cancel the settings if the vehicle drops below a certain speed, and the driver will have to manually accelerate and reset the ACC.

The speed at which ACC can be engaged also varies by manufacturer, with some allowing it to operate at less than 15 mph and others requiring 25 mph or faster. (Information on how a specific system operates can be found in a vehicle’s owner’s manual.)

Like regular cruise control, ACC can typically be canceled by tapping the brake pedal or the cancel switch on the steering-wheel controls. The driver also can operate in regular cruise without using the distance setting.

When paired with lane keep assist, which keeps the vehicle centered in the lanes, a vehicle with ACC is in Level 2 of the autonomous driving protocols because the vehicle can control some acceleration, braking and steering functions.

Safety Implications

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and others, including vehicle manufacturers , warn that ACC has limitations and that drivers should always keep their hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road at all times when using ACC.

Among the limitations are reduced capability in rain and snow or if the cameras or sensors are obscured. Also, the sensors don’t recognize stop signs or traffic signals; they may not be able to detect motorcycles, bicycles, animals or stopped vehicles; and they are less capable on winding roads.

Researchers have found that using ACC and lane keep assist can lull drivers into a false sense of security and reduce attentiveness , which can lead to accidents. However, an IIHS study of 2013-2017 BMW models found that vehicles equipped with ACC and other so-called advanced driver-assistance systems had significantly fewer insurance claims for property damage and injuries. Collision claims were lower by 6%, property damage claims by 27% and bodily injury claims by 37%. The study did not say how much of the reductions were due to ACC, however.

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Cars with Adaptive Cruise Control: Everything You Need to Know

Cars with adaptive cruise control used to be considered a luxury only featured in state-of-the-art vehicles. Still, with technological advancements, adaptive cruise control is now a common feature found in many different car models.

Cars with adaptive cruise control used to be considered a luxury only featured in state-of-the-art vehicles. Still, with technological advancements, adaptive cruise control is now a common feature found in many different car models. Autobytel says this means ACC is now accessible to everyone, and even if your current vehicle doesn't have ACC, you can always have it installed.

What Does Adaptive Cruise Control Do?

Adaptive cruise control uses advanced sensory technology to determine your car's speed in proximity to other vehicles or objects on or around the roadway. It applies moderate brakes and warning signals when a driver is getting to close to another car. Drivers can set the speed limit on the ACC so that they don't exceed the speed limit, but when the sensory technology detects traffic or other unsafe conditions, it reduces the driver's speed to adapt to them.

The Best Cars With Adaptive Cruise Control

1. 2020 bmw 3 series.

This brand new model offers the best combination of sensory technology . It uses cameras in addition to ultrasonic and radar sensors to pull data about the environment surrounding the vehicle. In addition to its sensory features, it also has a "stop-and-go" brake feature, great for commuters who spend extended amounts of time in stand-still traffic as it alleviates the stress on the driver's legs and feet. What's more, the camera sensor can pick up traffic signs such as speed limit signs and reduce or increase speed to match the recommended rate of speed.

2. 2020 Volvo S60

This new model by Volvo has a "Pilot Assist" feature, which makes driving safe and easy. What this feature does is it helps the driver maintain the proper speed with neighboring vehicles, and it also provides steering assistance along with automatic braking or accelerating for situations such as stop-and-go to free-flowing traffic. Another great aspect of this model is that it doesn't rely on a lead car to determine speed and spacing, so you can use it even when you aren't near another car.

3. 2020 Hyundai Sonata

This new Hyundai model has the same technological systems as other Hyundai models, called "SmartSense advanced driving assistance systems." The 2020 Hyundai Sonata includes SmartSense features such as five cameras, three radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors to help with things such as advanced cruise control, stop-and-go feature, warning signals, and automatic braking or accelerating.

4. 2020 Nissan Altima

The 2020 Nissan Altima features Nissan's "ProPilot Assist" system, which uses advanced technology to help drivers practice safe driving. It allows drivers with automatic acceleration and braking for speed and distance control, while it also uses automatic steering to help them maintain lane control. These helpful features are made possible by its front-facing cameras, sensors, radar, and electronic control module.

5. 2020 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

This new model provides drivers with an adaptive cruise control system, specifically designed for highway travel. Its cruise control features include cameras within the car and radar sensors on the front grille that can gauge your car's proximity and speed when compared to other vehicles around you. Similarly, these sensors help determine the rate of speed of the vehicle in front of you and automatically decrease your speed if the vehicle in front of you slows down.

The Cheapest Cars With Adaptive Cruise Control

According to U.S.News, here are some examples of the cheapest cars you can buy that still have adaptive cruise control features:

1. 2019 Kia Soul

You can get Kia's "smart cruise control" feature as part of their "Primo Package." This add-on is around $4,500 in addition to the original selling-price. You can save energy with its automatic braking system, and also keep a safe following distance thanks to its forward-collision warning feature. In addition to these safety features, the Kia Soul also provides drivers with a heated steering wheel, and in-depth seat adjustments to meet more complex needs for your body type.

2. 2018 Mazda 3

The 2018 Mazda 3 provides drivers with an adaptive cruise control system that detects rear-cross traffic and blind-spot monitoring, great for making safe lane changes. It also offers a "premium equipment package" for just $1,600 in addition to the original selling price. This package gives your vehicle advanced safety features and other add-ons such as a heated steering wheel and a built-in navigation system.

3. 2018 Hyundai Sonata

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata offers buyers the "technology package" for just $1,000. Included in this package are adaptive cruise control to help drivers maintain a safe following distance and adequate speed. This model also comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

4. 2018 Toyota Rav4

This 2018 Toyota Rav4 SUV includes an adaptive cruise control system for a fee that increases the original selling price to just above $25,000. When you turn your ACC feature on, it uses its radar sensors to administer collision warnings, automatic braking, and acceleration to make sure that your vehicle moves at a safe pace and maintains an appropriate following distance from other vehicles on the roadway at all times.

The 2018 Toyota Rav4's adaptive cruise control system is categorized as "standard equipment" in Toyota's "Safety Sense P suite of technology," Making it a high-tech safety vehicle for a reasonable price point.

5. 2018 Honda Accord

The 2018 Honda Accord features a state-of-the-art adaptive cruise control system called the "Honda Sensing System." This system offers not only adaptive cruise control but also several other useful safety features, including automatic braking for collision prevention and traffic sign recognition.

These features are powered by camera sensing technology that can read traffic signs such as speed limit markers and adjust the Accord's speed to fit those speed requirements. You can get even more safety features by upgrading to higher-trims.

As adaptive cruise control becomes more readily available, you can find cheap and affordable car models that include much of the same technology as modern luxury cars.

https://www.autobytel.com/car-buying-guides/features/10-cars-with-adaptive-cruise-control-131148/

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/cheapest-cars-with-adaptive-cruise-control

https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw

https://www.caranddriver.com/shopping-advice/

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Home » Tips & Tricks » How to use adaptive cruise control on BMW X3, X5

How to use adaptive cruise control on BMW X3, X5

The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including cruise control, can be activated via buttons located on the steering wheel.

The layout of these buttons on steering wheel depends on how your BMW is equipped.

Standard Models

For models with standard equipment, when the limit function “LIM” is set, the car will not accelerate past the set speed, unless there’s extensive throttle input initiated by the driver.

To turn the dynamic cruise control on or off, press the button next to with speedometer icon it. To set your current speed press the SET button. The rocker switch allows you to increase or decrease the set speed by 1 and 5 mile per hour increments.

If equipped with Speed Limit Assist , when activated the system will recognize when the speed limit has changed and will propose the new set speed. To accept, press the SET button.

You can temporarily deactivate the cruise control by pressing the CANCEL button or by applying the brakes. To return to cruising at your set speed, press the RESUME or RES button. To turn off the system, press the dynamic cruise control button again.

Active Cruise Control with Stop-and-go

Models equipped with active cruise control with stop-and-go will have different buttons for these additional features. Here, cruise control button activates the system, once set active cruise control allows the driver to set a desired following distance from the vehicle traveling in front, and adjust the vehicle speed to maintain the preset following distance, and will even bring the vehicle to a stop.

Use the gap buttons (+ -) to increase or decrease the follow distance. To turn off the system, press the cruise control button again (button with speedometer icon).

Active Driving Assistance Pro

In models with active driving assistant Pro, the Assist button is used to turn the steering and traffic jam assistant feature on and off.

In addition to all the previously mentioned features, it has a MODE button for selecting between driver assistance profiles. By pressing the mode button the vehicle will cycle between either distance control or assisted driving, which includes steering control.

There is also an LED above both the left and right control pads on the steering wheel, the two LEDs provide additional visual indicators. When green the assistance system is active. If it turns yellow, interruption of the assistance system is pending. And when it shows red, the assistance system has been deactivated and you should take over driving.

Extended Traffic Jam Assistant

In models with the Extended Traffic Jam Assistant, the traffic jam assistant is further enhanced when certain conditions are met. When prompted to activate, press the MODE button. The system uses a camera to ensure the driver is looking at the road and paying attention to their surroundings allowing for an even more comfortable drive by removing the requirement to hold the steering wheel. To turn off the driving assistant, just press the assist button.

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Cruise control and adaptive cruise control: the complete guide

Cruise control is a great extra to have if you do regular motorway journeys, while adaptive cruise control arguably makes even more sense.

What is cruise control? Cruise control is an electronic system that automatically regulates a car's speed without the driver having to keep their foot on the accelerator. That's the simple answer, but today car manufacturers are adding ever-more advanced cruise control systems to their models, all designed to make driving easier and safer, while many of the newer technologies are on the first tentative steps towards autonomous vehicles .

Once upon a time, cruise control was the preserve of high-end luxury cars, but as the technology has become more affordable, car makers have rolled it out on more mainstream models. Today, you can get it on even the smallest city cars , while other models get a proprietary speed limited system that requires a bit more input from the driver.

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Elsewhere, the progress of technology means that car makers have been able to develop adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems that can vary a car's speed according to traffic, while the most advanced systems are on the steps towards fully autonomous driving.

Here we explain how cruise control works and break down the different kinds of system on offer, highlighting their advantages and limitations, so you can decide if it's an option that's worth ticking on your next new car purchase.

Cruise control history

Cruise control can trace its origins back to the 17th and 18th century, when engineers developed 'speed control' systems for steam engines. These mechanical systems were adapted by some early automobile makers at the start of the 20th century, although the predecessor to modern cruise control didn't appear until the 1950s.

The first car to feature cruise control was a 1958 Imperial, which was Chrysler's luxury division. Called 'Auto-pilot', the system was mechanical and was connected to the engine propshaft. It had a dial on the dashboard to preselect a speed and an electric motor that adjusted throttle position to maintain it.

US firm American Motors produced a budget version of cruise control for its automatic cars in 1965, but cruise control really took off in the US during the oil crisis of 1973. Manufacturers had developed electronic cruise control systems by this time, and these makers promoted the benefits of the system as it delivered constant throttle inputs, rather than the erratic flexing of the driver's right foot for improved fuel economy.

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Cruise control found popularity in the US first because of that nation's fondness of automatic gearboxes, long travelling distances and the relatively straight and wide highway network. In Europe, cruise control took a little longer to gain a foothold, but like the US, it first appeared on high-end luxury cars before filtering its way down to more mainstream models.

The first adaptive cruise control (ACC) system appeared in Japan in the early 1990s, although the first systems simply warned the driver of slower traffic ahead, and didn't control the car's throttle or brakes.

The first proper ACC system was Mercedes ' Distronic system, which appeared on the S-Class limousine in 1999. This system not only controlled the throttle, but also the brakes to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front.

Since then, car makers have embraced ACC, and it can be found on superminis , hatchbacks and sports cars , while the rising level of traffic on our roads means it's arguably a more useful feature than standard cruise control on its own, as it can adjust speed according to traffic flow.

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How does cruise control work?

Modern cruise control systems are integrated into a car's electronics, and are often combined with additional tech, such as lane departure warning and blind spot sensors. With standard cruise control, you need to select cruise mode via a switch, then accelerate to your desired speed, and press a button – either on the steering wheel or on a lever on the steering column - to set that speed.

The car's electronics then maintain your selected speed, so you can take your foot of the accelerator. On some cars you can adjust your speed via a button, and the car will automatically change its speed accordingly.

On a car with adaptive cruise control (ACC), you switch on the system, then you can raise or lower your speed as desired, and the car will accelerate to that set speed. These systems use either radar or laser sensors to maintain a set distance to the car in front, and they also have the ability to increase or decrease that distance as required.

To deactivate cruise control, you simply press a button to regain control of the throttle. However, one important safety feature that all of these systems are required to have is that the system will immediately deactivate if the car's brakes are applied. On cars with a manual gearbox, pressing the clutch pedal will sometimes have the same effect, although not all cars behave in the same way. Most cars will have a memory function, so that you can resume the same speed after the brakes have been applied.

Earlier cruise control systems would have a lower speed threshold of around 20-30mph where cruise control couldn't be activated, and some manufacturers still maintain this set-up. However, some of the latest ACC systems also incorporate a traffic function, so they can operate in stop-start conditions.

Cruise control types

Essentially there are four types of cruise control on offer, ranging from the most basic speed limiter to systems that can negotiate stop-start traffic and even change lanes. We look at the benefits and disadvantages of each below.

Speed limiter

What is it? The most basic form of cruise control. There are systems that can be hard-wired into a vehicle to limit its top speed (a 70mph limit in vans, for example), or there are driver-activated systems. You can set a maximum speed for your vehicle, but you maintain control of the car's accelerator at all times. When you approach your set maximum, the car will simply stop accelerating. This will usually happen softly, so you'll barely notice.

Found on: Citroen, Ford, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, vans, can be added aftermarket, too. Advantages: Helps you stick to speed limits, saves fuel. Disadvantages: Driver has to continue using the throttle to maintain speed.

Cruise control

What is it? Standard cruise control is a fairly common feature on new cars. You turn the system on (usually indicated by a graphic on the dashboard), then once you're up to your desired speed, you press a button to set it, and the car maintains that speed.

Found on: Most mainstream new cars, except for the most basic trims. Advantages: Takes strain out of long drives, more fuel efficient than using the accelerator manually, helps you stick to speed limits. Disadvantages: Driver has to take over when traffic slows, only worth using on clear motorways.

Adaptive cruise control

What is it? Either a radar or laser-based system that can maintain speed, but reduces speed if the gap to the car in front falls below a preset distance. This constitutes Level One automation on the automated vehicle classification chart, as they driver is required to take control at any time. 

Found on: Assorted BMW, Fiat group, Ford, JLR, Lexus, Mercedes, VW Group models, and increasing in use by other makers. Advantages: Adjusts speed according to traffic, takes strain out of long drives, helps fuel efficiency. Disadvantages: Sensors can be 'blinded' in bad weather, electronics can be slow to react to sudden traffic slowing, distance to the car in front can be big enough to tempt other drivers to cut in front of you, sometime systems are jerky when changing speed.

Semi-autonomous cruise control

The latest hi-tech cruise control systems are one step closer to the fully autonomous self-driving car, and are classed as Level 2 automation. This means the automation can control the throttle, brakes and steering, but the driver still needs to intervene if the systems fail to detect objects. Semi-autonomous systems can vary in sophistication, and can help with steering inputs, move in stop-start traffic, or even change lanes on the motorway with the flick of an indicator, or adjust the car's speed according to GPS data and road sign recognition cameras. 

Found on: Audi A3 /A8/Q7, BMW 7 Series , Mercedes S-Class , Volvo XC90 Advantages: Takes strain out of driving and traffic jams, helps fuel consumption. Disadvantages: Sensors need to be kept clear for it to work, too easy for driver to 'switch off' and lose concentration.

Do you have cruise control or adaptive cruise control on your car? Do you use it? Let us know what you think of the technology in the comments...

Dean has been part of the Auto Express team for more than 20 years, and has worked across nearly all departments, starting on magazine production, then moving to road tests and reviews. He's our resident van expert, but covers everything from scooters and motorbikes to supercars and consumer products.

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• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Balashikha Arena
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Church of Vladimir
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall