The 2026 Subaru Outback Touring and Touring XT models can now be updated for free with the Highway Hands-Free Assist driving function, a first on a Subaru model, which enables hands-free driving at speeds up to 85mph.
The EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist system now comes as standard on 2026 Subaru Outback Touring and Touring XT trim levels and provides limited hands-free operation once advanced adaptive cruise control is active. The update is unnecessary for any vehicles sold after January 19, 2026.
Subaru’s DriverFocus system monitors driver awareness to ensure that control can be transferred back to the driver at any time. If DriverFocus detects that the driver is not attentive, the system will disengage and prompt the driver to place their hands on the wheel and resume control.
The updated advanced driving assist systems for Outback Touring and Touring XT models expand EyeSight functionality by integrating GPS data, 3D high-definition maps, millimeter-wave radar and a camera-based system.
Subaru engineers logged nearly 100,000 miles of hands-free driving during development. Combined with testing, the advanced driving systems help to provide higher accuracy and broader driver support for a more confident and comfortable driving experience.
When adaptive cruise control is activated, Highway Hands-Free Assist automatically engages on highways with at least two lanes. It provides advanced adaptive cruise control and limited hands-free assist, along with specific features like highway active lane change assist, highway automatic resume assist, highway pre-curve speed control and emergency stop assist with safe lane selection.
The ADAS status is shown in the digital gauge cluster, where green icons indicate hands-on assist and blue icons confirm Highway Hands-Free Assist activation.
Supporting these capabilities is the second-generation DriverFocus distraction mitigation system. The upgraded system features a wider-angle, higher-resolution camera, improved processing and infrared LEDs that can track eye-gaze through most sunglasses or eyeglasses. In addition to safety, DriverFocus also offers driver-recognition convenience features, automatic seat adjustments, mirrors and climate preferences for up to five users.
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