What is Nissan ProPILOT Assist & How Does It Work?
When shopping for a new Nissan, you may have come across ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on driver-assist technology designed to make highway driving easier and less stressful. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? In this blog, we'll break down Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist system, its features, and the benefits it provides for drivers.
What is Nissan ProPILOT Assist?
ProPILOT Assist is Nissan’s semi-autonomous driver assistance system that combines Intelligent Cruise Control and Steering Assist technologies to help with steering, braking, and acceleration on highways. It includes a stop-and-hold function, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, hold it in place, and bring it back up to speed when traffic starts moving again. While it doesn’t replace the driver, it provides support in stop-and-go traffic and long highway drives, making it easier to stay centered in your lane and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
This feature is available on several Nissan models, including the Nissan Rogue, ARIYA, Altima, LEAF, and Pathfinder. Some models also come with ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link, an advanced version that syncs with the navigation system for additional predictive assistance.
Understanding the Versions of ProPILOT Assist
Over time, Nissan has refined and expanded the capabilities of ProPILOT Assist through multiple versions:
🔹 ProPILOT Assist 1.1 – The original version is focused on single-lane highway driving. It combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to help the vehicle maintain speed, keep a safe following distance, and stay centered in its lane. This version requires the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel.
🔹 ProPILOT Assist 2.0 – This version introduces hands-free driving on certain pre-mapped highways under specific conditions. It also enhances lane change assistance, enabling the system to assist when the driver initiates a lane change. This version is available exclusively on the Nissan ARIYA.
🔹 ProPILOT Assist 2.1 – The most advanced version, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, builds upon 2.0 by enabling more seamless and intuitive hands-off driving, including the ability to overtake slower vehicles on compatible highways. It supports both hands-free steering and feet-off pedals. This version is currently available only on the 2025 Nissan Rogue SL and Platinum trims.
ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link
ProPILOT Assist with Navi-link takes driver assistance a step further by syncing with the vehicle’s navigation system, allowing for better anticipation of road conditions. Key features include:
✅ Speed Adjust by Route – Automatically reduces speed for tight curves and off-ramps, providing a smoother driving experience.
✅ Speed Limit Assist – Allows drivers to quickly adjust the set speed to match the posted speed limit for a more intuitive, enjoyable drive.
These added features work seamlessly to make highway driving even more effortless and stress-free.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1: Hands-Free Highway Driving
For an even more advanced driving experience, ProPILOT Assist 2.1 offers hands-free driving capabilities on compatible roads. While driving, you can take your hands off the wheel and feet off the pedals—though you still need to pay attention and be prepared to take control of the vehicle when needed.
How Does ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Work?
Enhanced Steering, Acceleration, and Braking – Uses advanced cameras, radar, and sonar to assist with highway driving while ensuring safety and precision.
Lane Change Assistance - Push a button, and the system will use advanced mapping and traffic data to help you safely overtake a slower vehicle.
Exit Ramp Guidance – Follows your pre-set destination and alerts you when your exit is approaching while helping you move into the correct lane.
360° Traffic Monitoring – Uses highway mapping and real-time traffic data to enable smooth and precise driving decisions.
Google Built-in Connectivity – Log into your Google Account for real-time traffic updates, personalized navigation suggestions, and access to Google Assistant for voice-activated controls. You can also download apps for navigation, points of interest, parking, and more with Google Play.
Which Nissan Models Offer ProPILOT Assist?
Nissan currently offers ProPILOT Assist on multiple models, including but not limited to:
Nissan ARIYA – Only Nissan model currently equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.0.
2025 Nissan Rogue – Only model equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.1, available on SL and Platinum trims.
Nissan Altima – Equipped with ProPILOT Assist 1.1.
Nissan LEAF – Equipped with ProPILOT Assist 1.1.
Nissan Pathfinder – Equipped with ProPILOT Assist 1.1.
If you're interested in experiencing ProPILOT Assist firsthand, we invite you to visit Boulder Nissan for a test drive! Our team can walk you through how it works and help you find a Nissan model equipped with this advanced technology.