Renault’s appropriately-named ‘Active Driver Assist’ accurately portrays the system functionality. The promotional material and the handbook correctly indicate the limitations of the system capabilities. System status information is clearly displayed in the driver’s direct line of sight. The Renault 5 robustly monitors that the driver keeps their hands on the steering wheel, but does not ‘lock-out’ the assistance system if there are repeated warnings. The car’s driver monitoring system detects fatigue but not distraction. The system balances driver steering input with lane guidance, promoting co-operative driving.

The Renault 5 combines map-based speed limit information with real time camera inputs to manage fixed, variable and temporary speed limit signs, and adapts to some to road features such as curves and roundabouts. The car responds to avoid or mitigate a collision in almost all of the test scenarios for automatic cruise control. The driver is supported through the S-Bend, staying within the lane at all but the highest test speed. The Renault does not have a lane change assist feature. In the case of an unresponsive driver, the car performs a controlled stop within its lane. If the radar or camera is blocked, the Renault 5 provides a timely warning and prevents system activation.

‘Active Driver Assist’, as fitted to the Renault 5, balances a good level of Vehicle Assistance with a similar level of Driver Engagement. Combined with a high level of safety back-up, the system, overall, offers Very Good highway assistance.