Cruise control is something that we’re all aware of. If someone mentions it you’ll likely think ‘ooo that’s nice’, but do you know how it actually works in a car?
In short, it’s a feature that makes driving more convenient. Whether you’re cruising down a motorway or looking for a way to reduce driver fatigue, cruise control in a new car can provide a smooth and more relaxed driving experience.
In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of cruise control, from how to set it up to the added benefits of systems like adaptive cruise control, plus we’ll highlight some of the best lease cars with cruise control.
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Cruise control as a technology has been around since the mid-20th century, but only in the last 20 years has it become commonplace in cars. It’s also one of those features that many drivers don’t appreciate until they experience it.
At its core, cruise control allows you to maintain a set speed without needing to keep control of the accelerator. Rather than fiddling with the pedal, you can focus more on the road and enjoy the journey, which is perfect for long drives.
Most modern cars come equipped with standard cruise control, but some prestige models feature more advanced systems, such as adaptive cruise control (which we’ll discuss in further detail below).
Setting cruise control is a relatively straightforward process. Once you’ve found the button on your dashboard or steering wheel, follow these steps:
- Reach your desired speed - First, you need to be driving at a constant speed. Once you reach the speed you want, say 70mph, continue along at this speed.
- Activate cruise control - Press your cruise control button, and you’ll usually see a symbol appear on your instrument display indicating cruise control.
- Set the speed - Once the system is active, use the set button and lock in your current speed.
- Adjust the speed - If you want to increase or decrease the speed, simply tap the ‘+’ or ‘-’ buttons on your steering wheel.
- Turning it off - If you want to take control again, either press the cancel button or tap the brake or clutch to override the system.
Remember, keep both hands on the wheel when using cruise control and stay alert while driving. While the technology is designed to make driving easier, it’s not a substitute for paying attention on the road.
Adaptive cruise control is essentially the better version of regular cruise control. While traditional cruise control simply locks in a speed, adaptive cruise control can adjust the vehicle’s speed automatically based on traffic and road conditions.
Through a system of sensors, cameras, and radar technology, adaptive cruise control detects the speed and position of the vehicle in front, automatically increasing/decreasing your speed to maintain a safe following distance.
Adaptive cruise control takes a lot of the guesswork out of long-distance driving, reducing the need for you to constantly accelerate and decelerate.
Cruise control | Adaptive cruise control | |
|---|---|---|
Function | Maintains a set speed without adjusting for traffic | Adjusts speed automatically based on traffic conditions |
Speed adjustment | Manual adjustment by the driver | Automatic adjustment based on other vehicles |
Traffic adaptability | Doesn't account for changes in traffic conditions | Slows down or speeds up to maintain a safe distance |
Safety features | Basic and limited to maintaining speed | Includes safety prevention features |
Driver involvement | Driver must adjust speed and braking | Minimal driver involvement |
Technology | Basic | Used advanced tech like radar and sensors |
While both systems help you maintain speed, adaptive cruise control goes that one bit further by adding an extra layer of convenience and safety by adjusting your speed itself.
Modern cars come packed with a whole range of technology, but cruise control is arguably one of the most effective. It can benefit our driving experience in a range of ways, such as:
- Reduced fatigue - Long drives can be exhausting, especially when you’re racking up the miles for hours at a time. With cruise control, it takes the strain off your right foot, allowing you to maintain a set speed without having to manage the accelerator pedal.
- Better fuel efficiency - Keeping a constant speed can improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency, which cruise control can contribute massively towards.
- Increased safety - Although we don’t like putting our fate in the hands of the robot, cruise control can actually increase safety when used correctly. It can help us maintain a speed below the limit, avoid speeding fines, and keep a reasonable distance from other cars.
Cruise control is a technology that doesn’t work in isolation. It’s often part of a whole suite of advanced driver assistance systems that are designed to make driving safer and more convenient.
Cruise control works in tandem with features like:
- Lane-keeping assist - Lane-keeping assist can keep your car centred in its lane, while cruise control can maintain your speed. They work together to help you maintain a safe position on the road.
- Forward collision warning - Adaptive cruise control can work with forward collision warning to monitor the road ahead. If it sees a hazard, it will either alert you to slow down or take action.
- Automatic emergency braking - Working alongside forward collision warning and cruise control, automatic emergency braking can stop the car or reduce its speed, preventing an accident.
1. Ford Mustang Mach-E
Ford’s BlueCruise is the best advanced driver assistance system on the market, according to Consumer Reports. It has adaptive cruise control that works alongside other safety features to control speed and steering. It’s a pretty sweet system.
2. Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon
Available as an extra is Merc’s intelligent drive package. It makes everyday driving much easier and assists with speed adjustment, distance control, and steering.
3. Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Toyota’s Safety Sense adaptive cruise control system is one of the best around. It’s brilliant to use in high-traffic areas and is one of the most similar to match real driving habits.
4. Nissan Qashqai
Nissan have always been a leader in terms of safety tech, and their ProPILOT assist continues this trend. Designed for highway driving, it uses cruise control alongside other safety features to understand road and traffic situations, assisting in acceleration, braking, and steering.
5. Tesla Model Y
Tesla’s autopilot system has been one of the best cruise control systems around for quite some time now. It matches the speed of your car to the surrounding traffic and can assist in steering within a marked lane.
Cruise control is one of those features that can make a big difference in your driving experience, especially on long journeys.
Whether you’re using traditional cruise control or adaptive cruise control, it can make driving easier, more efficient, and safer.
So, the next time you’re considering a car, make sure it’s got cruise control.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has a range of leasing deals available on cars with state-of-the-art technology. For more, check out our latest leasing deals or call us on 0345 811 9595.
