BMW Highway Assistant: Hands-Free Driving Features and Safety Guide

Driving has come a long way—and BMW is leading the charge. If you’ve ever wished you could relax a little more during long highway drives, you’re not alone. That’s where the BMW Highway Assistant comes in. It’s one of the most exciting features available in today’s modern luxury vehicles, and it’s changing the way we think about time behind the wheel.

So, what exactly is it? The BMW Highway Assistant is a hands-free driving feature designed for certain highway conditions. It lets you take your hands off the wheel while the car handles steering, acceleration, and braking for you. Whether you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic or cruising down the interstate, it helps reduce stress and makes your ride smoother and more enjoyable.

But is it safe? Absolutely—BMW built the system with safety in mind. There’s a built-in camera to monitor your attention, radar sensors that watch the road, and software that only allows hands-free driving in the right conditions. So even though it’s high-tech and futuristic, the main goal is still to keep you and your passengers safe.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the BMW Highway Assistant—from how it works to where you can use it. We’ll also talk about how it fits into the wider BMW driver assistance package, which includes several other helpful safety and support features. If you’re looking at a BMW and wondering whether this tech is worth it, we’ll break it all down in simple terms.

Questions We’ll Answer in This Guide:

• How does BMW Highway Assistant work?
• Can I really take my hands off the wheel?
• What BMW models come with this feature?
• What’s included in the BMW driver assistance package?
• How does this compare to other brands’ hands-free systems?
• Is it safe in bad weather or heavy traffic?
• Do I have to do anything to activate it?

Whether you’re just curious or actively shopping for a new BMW, this guide is here to help you make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how the BMW Highway Assistant works, why it’s getting so much attention, and how it can enhance your driving experience from day one.

Let’s dive in.

What Is the BMW Highway Assistant?

The BMW Highway Assistant is a cutting-edge driving feature that lets you take your hands off the wheel—while still keeping your eyes on the road. Yes, it’s really hands-free. Designed for use on limited-access highways, this system gives you more freedom behind the wheel while helping you stay safe, relaxed, and in control.

So how does it work? The Highway Assistant uses a powerful combination of technology—including cameras, radar sensors, ultrasonic detectors, and high-definition maps—to “see” the road around you. It tracks lane lines, keeps a safe distance from the car in front of you, and makes small steering adjustments to stay centered. It even handles braking and acceleration, adjusting your speed as needed depending on traffic.

But even with all that advanced tech, BMW knows the driver is still the most important part of the equation. That’s why the system includes a driver monitoring camera that checks to make sure you’re paying attention. If it senses that you’re distracted or not facing the road, it will alert you to take back control.

The BMW Highway Assistant is available on select new models and works only on specific highway sections that have been mapped and tested. These include many major interstate routes where driving conditions are predictable and safe. You’ll know the feature is available when your dashboard tells you it’s ready to activate.

Think of it as a co-pilot for the parts of your drive that tend to be the most boring—like long stretches of highway or slow traffic. Instead of constantly making micro-adjustments to the wheel or hitting the brakes every few seconds, you can relax a little while your BMW handles the heavy lifting.

Quick Summary:

• Hands-free driving on mapped highways
• Works at speeds up to 85 mph (depending on model)
• Keeps your car centered and moving safely
• Monitors your attention to make sure you’re still engaged
• Only activates in approved conditions

In short, the BMW Highway Assistant is like having an extra set of hands and eyes on the road—without giving up your role as the driver. It’s smart, it’s smooth, and it’s built for the way people really drive today.

Key Features of BMW Highway Assistant

The BMW Highway Assistant is more than just hands-free—it’s packed with smart features that are designed to improve your driving experience and help you stay safe. Let’s take a closer look at what this system can actually do when you’re out on the road.

True Hands-Free Driving on Approved Highways

One of the biggest benefits of the BMW Highway Assistant is the ability to drive completely hands-free—but only under the right conditions. When you’re on a compatible highway (also known as a “limited-access highway”), the system can take over control of the steering, gas, and brakes. That means your car can stay in its lane, adjust its speed, and even come to a complete stop—all without you touching the wheel.

This is especially helpful on long road trips or during daily commutes. It helps reduce driver fatigue by letting the system handle repetitive driving tasks. And don’t worry—you’ll always be told when the system is ready to take over and when it’s time for you to jump back in.

Automatic Lane Changes with Just a Glance

One of the most impressive features of the BMW Highway Assistant is Active Lane Change with Glance Confirmation. It might sound complicated, but it’s actually really simple—and very cool.

Here’s how it works: when you want to change lanes, all you need to do is check your side mirror. If the system sees that it’s safe to move over, your BMW will automatically change lanes for you. You don’t have to touch the turn signal or steer—it’s all done with just a quick glance. It’s fast, smooth, and intuitive.

This is a feature that sets BMW apart from other hands-free systems. It feels natural and safe, especially when you’re cruising at highway speeds and want to pass slower vehicles.

Driver Monitoring for Safety

Even though the BMW Highway Assistant lets you go hands-free, you still need to stay alert. That’s where the driver monitoring system comes in. A small camera inside the car tracks your head position and eye movement to make sure you’re watching the road.

If the system notices that you’re not paying attention—like if you look down for too long or start daydreaming—it will warn you. And if you ignore the warning, the system will slowly bring the car to a safe stop. It’s all about making sure the driver is always ready to take back control when needed.

This added layer of protection gives you the confidence to use hands-free features while knowing that safety is still the top priority.

Traffic Jam Assist for Stop-and-Go Situations

Nobody enjoys sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Thankfully, BMW thought of that, too. With Traffic Jam Assist, the system handles low-speed driving when you’re stuck in congestion. It will keep the car moving, stop when needed, and stay centered in your lane—all without any pedal or steering input from you.

This is a game-changer for busy urban highways where stop-and-go traffic is common. It takes the stress out of driving and makes those frustrating moments feel a lot more manageable.

Seamless Integration with Other BMW Systems

The BMW Highway Assistant doesn’t work in isolation—it’s designed to work smoothly alongside your BMW’s other high-tech features it’s designed to work smoothly alongside your BMW’s other high-tech features through BMW’s ConnectedDrive system, which integrates all your vehicle’s digital services and connectivity features. For example, if your vehicle is equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, or Speed Limit Info, all of that data is fed into the system to help it make smarter decisions.

It also works with your car’s navigation system to understand the road ahead. This helps the assistant prepare for curves, exits, and traffic patterns—making the driving experience even more comfortable and predictable.

What Makes These Features Stand Out?

Here’s what sets BMW’s system apart from other brands:

• Glance-based lane changes (an industry first)
• Smooth and confident steering inputs that feel natural
• Real-time driver monitoring that helps prevent accidents
• Support for speeds up to 85 mph, depending on the model
• Built-in safety overrides that return control to the driver if needed

Each part of the system is designed to make your drive safer, smarter, and more enjoyable.

The BMW Highway Assistant isn’t just a hands-free feature—it’s a complete support system for highway driving. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or flying down the freeway, these features work together to give you more freedom behind the wheel without taking your safety for granted.

What’s in the BMW Driver Assistance Package?

If you’re looking for a car that offers extra safety and smarter driving features, the BMW driver assistance package is one of the best available. It’s designed to make driving easier, more comfortable, and—most importantly—safer. Whether you’re navigating city streets, parking in tight spots, or cruising down the highway, these features work together to help you stay in control and avoid accidents.

So, what exactly is included in the package? Let’s break it down.

Lane Departure Warning

It happens to the best of us—sometimes you drift out of your lane without realizing it. Maybe you’re adjusting the radio, talking to a passenger, or just a little distracted. Lane Departure Warning uses cameras to track your position and alerts you with a gentle vibration or visual warning if you start to veer without signaling. It’s a simple but powerful way to help prevent sideswipes and off-road accidents.

Blind Spot Detection

Changing lanes can be risky, especially on busy highways. Blind Spot Detection keeps an eye on those hard-to-see areas and lets you know if there’s a vehicle hiding where your mirrors can’t see. If there’s someone in your blind spot, a small light will flash near your side mirror to warn you not to move over just yet. This feature adds an extra layer of protection every time you merge or pass.

Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation

Whether you’re driving through stop-and-go traffic or pulling up to a red light, Frontal Collision Warning helps prevent crashes by detecting vehicles or obstacles ahead. If the system thinks a crash might happen, it alerts you right away. If you don’t react in time, the car can automatically apply the brakes to help lessen the impact or avoid the crash altogether. This is especially useful in urban areas where quick stops are common.

Adaptive Cruise Control (with Stop & Go)

Traditional cruise control is great on open highways, but Adaptive Cruise Control takes things to the next level. It not only keeps your car at a set speed but also adjusts it based on the traffic around you. If the car in front of you slows down, so will you. Once traffic picks back up, your BMW automatically speeds up to your chosen pace. It even works in stop-and-go traffic, reducing the need to constantly brake and accelerate manually.

Traffic Sign Recognition

Speed limits can change quickly, especially when you’re driving through different neighborhoods or construction zones. Traffic Sign Recognition uses cameras to spot speed limit signs and shows the current limit on your dashboard. It helps you stay aware and avoid speeding tickets without needing to search for roadside signs.

Cross Traffic Alert

Backing out of parking spaces—especially in crowded lots—can be tricky. Cross Traffic Alert watches for cars approaching from the side and warns you if something is coming that you might not see, and this important safety technology adds peace of mind anytime you’re reversing into a busy lane or out of a tight spot.

Parking Assistance

Parallel parking or squeezing into narrow spaces just got easier. Parking Assistance can help guide your BMW into a space by taking over steering, and in some cases, even handling the gas and brakes. You just follow the on-screen prompts, and your car will do most of the work. It’s perfect for city drivers or anyone who finds parking a bit stressful.

How It All Comes Together

The BMW driver assistance package isn’t just a collection of helpful tools—it’s a system designed to support you from start to finish. Whether you’re parking, passing another car, or cruising on the highway, each feature works in the background to help you drive smarter and safer.

And when you pair this package with the BMW Highway Assistant, you get one of the most advanced semi-autonomous driving systems available today. Together, they give you more confidence behind the wheel—no matter where the road takes you.

How Does BMW Highway Assistant Work?

The BMW Highway Assistant may feel like magic when you’re using it—but behind the scenes, it’s powered by some seriously advanced technology. Every time you engage the system, your BMW uses a mix of sensors, cameras, maps, and software to take the wheel (literally) and help guide you down the highway safely and smoothly.

Let’s take a closer look at how it all works together.

Cameras That See Everything

Your BMW is equipped with high-resolution cameras that constantly scan your surroundings. These cameras track lane markings, road signs, and the position of nearby vehicles. This helps the system keep your car centered in its lane and stay aware of what’s happening all around you. Whether it’s a bend in the road or a slow-moving vehicle in front of you, the cameras give the system the vision it needs to make smart decisions.

Radar and Sensors for Better Awareness

Cameras are great, but they don’t work alone. BMW also uses radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicles, obstacles, and objects in your blind spots or directly ahead. These sensors measure how far away other cars are and how fast they’re moving. That way, if the car in front of you slows down, your BMW can respond instantly—without you needing to touch the brake.

High-Definition Maps for Accurate Navigation

One of the reasons the BMW Highway Assistant feels so reliable is because it only activates in areas where it knows it can work safely. That’s thanks to high-definition mapping data that tells your BMW exactly where it is. These maps include detailed information about road curves, exits, speed limits, and more. The system checks these maps in real time to confirm that you’re on a compatible highway where hands-free driving is allowed.

A Driver-Facing Camera for Safety

Even though you can take your hands off the wheel, you still need to keep your eyes on the road. To make sure you’re staying alert, BMW includes a driver-facing camera—usually located near the steering column. This camera watches your head position and eye movement. If you start looking away for too long (like checking your phone or looking down), the system will warn you to pay attention.

If you don’t respond to the alert, the system can slowly bring your vehicle to a stop while keeping it safely in its lane. It’s all about keeping you in the loop—even when the car is doing most of the work.

When Does the System Turn On?

The BMW Highway Assistant doesn’t work everywhere, and that’s a good thing. It’s built to be used only on specific mapped highways—also called “limited-access highways”—where there are no traffic lights, pedestrians, or sharp turns that would require manual control.

To use the system, a few conditions have to be met:

• You must be driving on an eligible, pre-mapped highway
• Road and weather conditions need to be clear (no heavy rain or snow)
• You need to be in a supported BMW model with the required tech package
• Your hands must be off the wheel, but your eyes must stay on the road

Once all these boxes are checked, your BMW will let you know that the system is available. You can activate it through a button on the steering wheel, and the car will handle the rest—while still keeping you in charge if anything changes.

The Bottom Line

The technology behind the BMW Highway Assistant is impressive, but it’s also designed to feel simple and intuitive. The goal isn’t to replace the driver—it’s to support you when driving becomes repetitive, tiring, or frustrating. By blending real-time data with driver monitoring and smart controls, BMW gives you a way to enjoy more freedom without giving up safety.

Which BMW Models Offer Highway Assistant?

If you’re interested in getting hands-free highway driving in your next luxury vehicle, you’re probably wondering: Which BMWs actually offer BMW Highway Assistant? As of 2025, this feature is available on several new models—with more on the way as BMW continues expanding its advanced driver technology.

Right now, the BMW Highway Assistant is included with select trim levels and packages, particularly those that offer the Driving Assistance Professional Package. Here’s a look at the models that currently support it:

BMW 5 Series (G60)

The all-new BMW 5 Series brings cutting-edge tech to the executive sedan market, and the Highway Assistant is one of its biggest highlights. If you’re looking for a car that blends performance with convenience, the 5 Series is a great place to start.

BMW i5 (Electric)

Love the idea of electric driving with hands-free features? The fully electric BMW i5 gives you both. It offers all the luxury and range you’d expect—plus the comfort of hands-free highway cruising.

BMW 7 Series (G70)

The flagship 7 Series is all about next-level luxury, and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to driver assistance. With BMW Highway Assistant, this full-size sedan delivers a smooth, almost chauffeur-like experience during highway driving.

BMW i7 (Electric Luxury Sedan)

If you’re going fully electric but don’t want to compromise on size, comfort, or tech, the BMW i7 is a perfect match. It includes all the advanced features found in the gas-powered 7 Series—plus extra perks that only come with BMW’s newest EV tech.

BMW X5 and BMW X7 (SUVs)

For drivers who prefer the power and space of an SUV, both the BMW X5 and BMW X7 offer Highway Assistant—but only when equipped with the proper upgraded packages, and you can compare BMW’s luxury SUV lineup to understand which model best fits your needs.

Is It Coming to Other BMW Models?

Yes—BMW has big plans to roll out BMW Highway Assistant to more models in the near future. As their technology evolves and more vehicles get equipped with the right cameras, sensors, and software, this feature will become available in additional sedans, SUVs, and electric models across the lineup.

BMW is also using over-the-air (OTA) updates, which means that some cars may receive Highway Assistant features through software updates—without needing a dealership visit. So if you’re shopping for a new BMW or recently bought one, it’s worth checking to see if your model is eligible for an upgrade.

How to Know If a BMW Has Highway Assistant

Since this feature isn’t standard on every vehicle, be sure to look for one of the following:

• Driving Assistance Professional Package on the model
• A supported model year (usually 2023 and newer)
• The presence of in-car driver monitoring cameras (for hands-free use)
• Confirmation from your BMW dealer or online configurator

Your local BMW dealership can walk you through which trims and packages include BMW Highway Assistant, and whether it’s something that can be added or upgraded later.

In Summary

As of 2025, BMW Highway Assistant is available on several top-tier BMW models, including:

• BMW 5 Series
• BMW i5
• BMW 7 Series
• BMW i7
• BMW X5 (with upgrades)
• BMW X7 (with upgrades)

More models are expected to be added soon, so if this feature is important to you, keep an eye on future announcements—or talk to your local BMW center about upcoming availability.

Important Safety Tips

The BMW Highway Assistant is one of the most advanced driver-assistance features available today—but it’s important to understand that it’s not a fully self-driving system. It falls under what’s called Level 2 autonomy, which means the car can handle certain driving tasks on its own, but the driver must stay fully alert and ready to step in at any moment.

Here’s what you need to know to use it safely and confidently.

It Only Works on Approved Highways

This system is built for limited-access highways—the kind with on-ramps, off-ramps, and no pedestrians or traffic lights. These roads are predictable and consistent, which makes it easier for the Highway Assistant to do its job. If you’re not on a pre-mapped and approved highway, the feature won’t activate at all. You’ll see a message on your dashboard letting you know when it’s available.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether your route supports Highway Assistant, the in-car navigation system will show you when you’re on an eligible road.

Weather Conditions Matter

Heavy rain, snow, fog, or ice can reduce the system’s performance. The cameras and sensors that help your car “see” the road might not function properly if visibility is poor or road markings are obscured. If the system detects these kinds of conditions, it may refuse to activate or temporarily shut off.

Tip: Always check the weather before a long highway trip if you plan to use Highway Assistant. If conditions aren’t ideal, be ready to take full control.

You Must Keep Your Eyes on the Road

Even though you can take your hands off the wheel, you can’t take your eyes off the road. A small camera inside your BMW tracks where you’re looking. If it notices you’re distracted—like looking at your phone, turning to talk to passengers, or dozing off—it will alert you with a sound or visual warning.

If you ignore the warning, the system can slow the car down and come to a safe stop while keeping you in your lane. This safety feature helps prevent accidents caused by distracted or drowsy driving.

Tip: Think of Highway Assistant as a co-pilot. It’s helping you—but you’re still the one in charge.

The Car May Ask You to Take Over

Sometimes the system will decide that conditions have changed and it’s no longer safe to continue in hands-free mode. This can happen if:

• The road suddenly exits the approved highway
• A construction zone or sharp curve is coming up
• Sensors or cameras are blocked (by dirt, ice, or fog)
• Traffic patterns get too complex or unpredictable

When this happens, your BMW will give you a clear alert—usually with a chime and a message on the dashboard—asking you to grab the wheel and resume manual driving.

Tip: Always be ready to take over, even if the car seems to be handling things perfectly.

Software Updates Can Expand Its Capabilities

BMW is constantly working to improve its driver-assist systems. Through over-the-air (OTA) updates, your vehicle may receive new features or expanded highway support over time. These updates help keep your system smart, safe, and up to date without needing to visit a dealership.

Tip: Keep your BMW connected to Wi-Fi when parked at home to receive automatic updates when they’re available.

Final Reminder

The BMW Highway Assistant is a powerful tool that’s built to make driving easier, especially during long trips and heavy traffic. But it’s not designed to replace you—it’s designed to support you. Think of it as an extra layer of safety and comfort that still relies on your attention, judgment, and presence behind the wheel.

When used the right way, it can completely transform the way you experience the road.

How It Stacks Up Against Other Brands

Hands-free driving technology is quickly becoming a must-have in the world of modern cars, and several automakers are stepping into the game. Companies like Ford, Tesla, and GM offer their own versions of driver assistance systems, but BMW’s approach stands out in a few key ways.

One of the biggest differences is how natural it feels. The BMW Highway Assistant includes a unique feature called glance-based lane changes. Instead of hitting a turn signal or pressing a button, all you have to do is glance at your side mirror. If the system sees it’s safe, the car changes lanes for you. It feels intuitive—almost like the car understands your intentions.

BMW also shines when it comes to the overall driving experience. Everything from the interior design to the smooth ride to the tech integration is focused on luxury and comfort. So while other systems may offer similar functionality, BMW delivers it in a way that feels more polished, more refined, and more in tune with the premium driving experience their drivers expect.

What’s Next for BMW’s Driver Tech?

BMW isn’t stopping with what it already offers. In fact, the company is investing heavily in the future of driving—and the BMW Highway Assistant is just the beginning. BMW’s vision includes a world where cars are smarter, safer, and more helpful than ever before.

Here’s a peek at what’s coming next:

• More models will offer hands-free driving capabilities—not just top-of-the-line sedans or SUVs
• AI-powered improvements will help the car better understand road conditions and make smarter driving decisions
• Real-time traffic data will improve route planning and allow for quicker adjustments on the road
• Improved multi-lane support will allow your BMW to better handle complex highway traffic
• Over-the-air updates (OTA) will add new features to your vehicle automatically—no dealership trip required

BMW is building toward a future where you’ll have more freedom, more comfort, and more control—even when you’re letting the car do the driving.

Why BMW Highway Assistant Is Worth It

At first glance, the BMW Highway Assistant might seem like a fancy feature—but it’s so much more than that. It’s a major upgrade to your everyday driving experience. It takes the stress out of long highway drives, helps you stay focused in traffic, and gives you an extra layer of safety and support when you need it most.

Whether you’re a commuter dealing with stop-and-go traffic or someone who enjoys weekend road trips, the hands-free convenience of Highway Assistant is a game-changer. You’ll arrive more refreshed, more relaxed, and with less fatigue.

When you pair it with the full BMW driver assistance package, you’re not just getting one feature—you’re getting an entire system that works together to make driving smoother, safer, and smarter. It’s a perfect balance of cutting-edge technology and driver comfort, wrapped up in the style and performance BMW is known for.

Ready to Experience It for Yourself?

The best way to understand how much the BMW Highway Assistant can improve your drive is to get behind the wheel and try it out.

Contact us today to explore BMW models equipped with Highway Assistant, or schedule a test drive to see how hands-free driving is redefining the road ahead. You don’t have to imagine the future of driving—it’s already here.