Honda Sensing® is a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features designed to enhance the driving experience. Available on many of Honda’s latest models, these features provide an added layer of protection and convenience for both drivers and passengers. Let’s take a look at the key players in the Honda Sensing program and the amazing tech and design behind each.
When Was Honda Sensing Developed?
Honda first introduced the Honda Sensing suite of safety features in 2014. It was initially made available on select models such as the 2015 Honda CR-V and the 2015 Honda Accord. The development of Honda Sensing was part of Honda’s commitment to improving vehicle safety and advancing driver-assistance technologies. Over time, Honda has expanded the availability of the suite to a broader range of models across its lineup. All vehicles after 2021 come standard with a majority of the Honda Sensing features.
What Is Included In Honda Sensing?
Honda Sensing Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
The Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) is one of the more well-known features of Honda Sensing. It uses a forward-facing camera and radar to monitor the road ahead for potential collisions with other vehicles or obstacles. If the system detects an impending collision, it can apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact or even avoid the crash altogether. This feature is especially useful in emergency situations when you may not have time to react quickly enough.
Honda Sensing Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
The Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) helps prevent accidents caused by unintentional lane drifting. It uses a small camera mounted near the rearview mirror to track lane markings on the road. If the system detects that the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane without signaling, it will provide a small steering correction to guide the car back into the lane. In more severe cases, the system can also provide gentle braking to prevent an unintended lane departure. This feature alone can save lives, especially if the departure occurred due to drowsy driving.
Honda Sensing Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) works alongside the RDM to offer more proactive assistance. If the system detects that the car is veering out of its lane, LKAS will gently steer the vehicle back into the center of the lane. While the driver is still required to keep their hands on the wheel and maintain control, this system helps reduce the strain of minor adjustments on long drives, especially on highways.
Honda Sensing Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
The Honda Sensing Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) makes long-distance driving more relaxed and convenient. ACC works like traditional cruise control but with the added benefit of maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. It uses radar to monitor the traffic in front of the vehicle and will automatically adjust the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front. If the vehicle ahead slows down or speeds up, ACC will adjust the vehicle’s speed accordingly. Super convenient on road trips when you would otherwise have to constantly brake for trucks.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
The Honda Sensing Forward Collision Warning (FCW) is an advanced safety feature that uses a small camera mounted near the rearview mirror to detect vehicles in front of the car. The system is designed to warn the driver of an imminent collision by triggering an alert if the vehicle is approaching another vehicle too quickly. This early warning gives drivers extra time to react and avoid a potential crash. The system is particularly useful in heavy traffic or when driving in low visibility conditions.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW) uses the same forward-facing camera as the other features in the Honda Sensing suite to monitor lane markings. If it detects that the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane or attempting to change lanes without signaling, the system will issue an alert to the driver through visual and audio cues. This helps reduce the risk of accidents caused by driver inattention or fatigue.
Honda Sensing Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) is a useful feature that helps drivers stay aware of important road signs, such as speed limits, stop signs, and yield signs. The system uses a camera to detect traffic signs along the road and displays them on the instrument panel to inform the driver. This feature is particularly useful when driving in unfamiliar areas or on roads with constantly changing speed limits.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Another important element of the Honda Sensing suite, Forward Collision Warning, uses a small camera to detect the presence of vehicles ahead. When it senses an imminent collision, it will alert the driver with both visual and auditory signals to prompt a timely response. This system works in conjunction with the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ to increase the chances of avoiding or reducing the severity of a collision.
Honda Sensing Blind Spot Information (BSI) System
The Honda Sensing Blind Spot Information (BSI) system uses sensors to monitor the vehicle’s blind spots. If it detects another vehicle in your blind spot, it will provide a visual warning in the side mirrors. This system helps ensure that the driver is aware of other vehicles in adjacent lanes.
Honda Sensing Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (RCTM)
The Honda Sensing Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (RCTM) is an incredibly useful feature, especially when reversing out of parking spaces. It uses sensors to detect cross traffic approaching from either side and alerts the driver with visual and audio warnings. This feature significantly enhances safety in tight spaces.
Honda Sensing Automatic High Beam Headlights
This feature automatically adjusts the vehicle’s headlights between high and low beams depending on the driving conditions and the presence of other vehicles on the road.
For example, when the system detects a vehicle ahead or approaching from the opposite direction, it will switch from high beams to low beams to avoid blinding other drivers. Once the road is clear again, the system will automatically switch back to high beams to improve visibility.
Denver Honda Dealer
Safety is one of the reasons Honda remains one of the most popular car brands on the market. In fact, five Honda models just earned the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety. How’s that for proof?
In Colorado, Mile High Honda is your friendly neighborhood Honda Dealer. We have all the newest models in stock, all equipped with the safety suite that has helped earn the brand its reputation for excellence. Stop by our lot or give our dealership a call to find your next favorite car.
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