Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Subaru XV 2018 and its much-talked-about EyeSight driver-assist system. If you're considering buying an XV of this generation, you're probably wondering: is EyeSight really as good as they say? Does it live up to the hype? And, most importantly, is it worth the extra cash? We'll break it all down for you, covering everything from how it works to what it actually feels like on the road. So, buckle up, because we're about to get into the nitty-gritty of the Subaru XV 2018 EyeSight review!

What is Subaru EyeSight?

Alright, before we get into the nitty-gritty of the review, let's quickly recap what Subaru EyeSight actually is. Basically, it's Subaru's suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Think of it as a collection of tech designed to make driving safer and easier. At the heart of EyeSight are two cameras mounted near the rearview mirror, constantly scanning the road ahead. These cameras work together, like a pair of eyes, to monitor traffic, recognize potential hazards, and even take action to help prevent accidents.

EyeSight features include adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist. These systems use the cameras to detect vehicles, lane markings, and other objects in the car's path. Then, depending on the situation, they can alert the driver or even automatically apply the brakes. It's like having an extra set of eyes on the road, constantly looking out for you. Of course, no system is perfect, and EyeSight is no exception. However, it's a valuable tool that can significantly improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, and EyeSight is a prime example of that. Subaru EyeSight is designed to assist the driver and is not a substitute for safe driving practices. The driver is always responsible for the vehicle's operation and must remain attentive at all times. The system's effectiveness can be affected by weather conditions, road conditions, and other factors. It's essential to understand the limitations of the system and to drive accordingly. So, while EyeSight is a fantastic piece of technology, it's still crucial to be a responsible and attentive driver. Plus, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system gives the XV excellent handling and stability, especially in challenging conditions like rain or snow. This, combined with EyeSight, makes the Subaru XV a very safe car to drive.

EyeSight Features in the 2018 Subaru XV

Now, let's get into the specifics of what EyeSight offers in the 2018 Subaru XV. As mentioned earlier, the system boasts several key features designed to enhance safety and convenience.

• Adaptive Cruise Control: This is a game-changer for highway driving. Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a set speed but also automatically adjusts your speed to keep a safe distance from the car in front. If the car ahead slows down, your XV will slow down too, and if the road clears, it'll accelerate back to your set speed. This helps to reduce driver fatigue on long journeys and makes stop-and-go traffic a lot less stressful.
• Pre-Collision Braking: This system is designed to detect potential frontal collisions. If it senses an imminent crash, it'll alert you with a warning and, if you don't react, automatically apply the brakes. This can help to avoid or mitigate the severity of a collision.
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning: These features are all about keeping you in your lane. The system uses cameras to monitor lane markings, and if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling, it'll alert you. Sway warning detects if the car is swaying within the lane due to driver fatigue or other factors.
• Lane Keep Assist: This feature takes lane departure warning a step further. If you start to drift out of your lane, Lane Keep Assist will gently steer the car back into the lane. It's a subtle intervention but can be very helpful in preventing accidental lane departures.

These features are designed to work together to provide a comprehensive safety net. EyeSight helps to prevent accidents and protect occupants, making the 2018 Subaru XV a safe and reliable vehicle. Keep in mind that while these features are impressive, they are not a substitute for attentive driving. Always pay attention to the road and be prepared to take control of the vehicle at any time.

Driving Experience with EyeSight

So, how does EyeSight actually feel in the real world? Well, I have to say, it's pretty impressive. The adaptive cruise control is one of my favorite features. It makes highway driving so much more relaxed. You can set your desired speed and following distance, and the system handles the rest. It smoothly adjusts your speed to match the flow of traffic, so you don't have to constantly brake and accelerate. It's a real stress reliever, especially on those long road trips.

The pre-collision braking system also provides peace of mind. While I didn't experience any near-misses during my testing (thankfully!), knowing that the car can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision is reassuring. The lane departure and sway warning systems are also quite effective. They're not overly intrusive, but they provide a gentle reminder if you start to drift out of your lane or show signs of fatigue. And the lane keep assist subtly nudges the car back into its lane, making it easier to stay centered, especially on less-than-perfect roads.

One thing to note is that EyeSight relies on the cameras to work, so its performance can be affected by weather conditions. In heavy rain, snow, or fog, the system's effectiveness may be reduced. It's also important to keep the cameras clean and free of obstructions. Overall, the driving experience with EyeSight is positive. It adds an extra layer of safety and convenience to the already capable Subaru XV. The technology is seamlessly integrated into the driving experience, providing a valuable assist without being overly intrusive or distracting.

Is EyeSight Worth It? The Verdict

Alright, the million-dollar question: is EyeSight in the 2018 Subaru XV worth the extra cost? In my opinion, absolutely! The safety benefits alone make it a worthwhile investment. Adaptive cruise control is a fantastic feature that significantly improves the driving experience, especially on the highway. Pre-collision braking can potentially save you from an accident, and lane departure and lane keep assist help you stay safe and centered.

Of course, there are some factors to consider. The effectiveness of EyeSight can be reduced in certain weather conditions, and it's essential to understand its limitations. It's also important to remember that EyeSight is an assistive system, not a replacement for attentive driving. However, if you prioritize safety and convenience, and you're looking for a vehicle that can help you avoid accidents and make driving easier, then the 2018 Subaru XV with EyeSight is a great choice. It's a valuable piece of technology that adds significant value to the overall driving experience. The extra cost is well worth it for the peace of mind and the added safety features.

So, there you have it, folks! The Subaru XV 2018 with EyeSight gets a big thumbs up from me. It's a safe, reliable, and convenient vehicle that's perfect for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, be sure to check out the Subaru XV 2018 with EyeSight. You won't be disappointed! Thanks for reading. Drive safe, and I'll catch you in the next review!