Driver assistance technology has advanced quickly, and one of the most impressive systems currently available in select INFINITI vehicles is ProPILOT Assist 2.1.
But what exactly does ProPILOT Assist 2.1 do? Is it hands free? Does the vehicle drive itself? And how is it different from the standard ProPILOT Assist system?
Here is what INFINITI shoppers should know.
What Is INFINITI ProPILOT Assist?
Before getting into ProPILOT Assist 2.1, it helps to understand the standard system.
ProPILOT Assist combines technologies such as Intelligent Cruise Control and Steering Assist to help reduce some of the workload of highway driving.
Intelligent Cruise Control can help maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed as traffic conditions change. Steering Assist can provide steering input to help keep the vehicle centered within its lane.
On models such as the 2027 INFINITI QX65 and QX60, standard ProPILOT Assist is a hands on system. The driver remains responsible for controlling the vehicle and must keep their hands on the steering wheel.
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What Does ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Add?
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 takes the technology significantly further.
On compatible divided highways and under appropriate conditions, ProPILOT Assist 2.1 can allow hands off driving within a single lane while helping control steering, acceleration and braking.
The system uses detailed 3D high definition map data along with the vehicle's cameras, radar and other technology to understand the road ahead.
It can also help navigate highway driving between on and off ramps on compatible mapped roads.
The important distinction is that hands off does not mean attention off.
The driver must continue watching the road and be prepared to take control of the vehicle whenever necessary.
How Does INFINITI Know You're Watching the Road?
Vehicles equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.1 use a Driver Monitoring System to help make sure the driver continues paying attention.
The system monitors the driver's attention while ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is operating.
That means you may be able to remove your hands from the steering wheel under appropriate conditions, but you cannot treat the system like an autonomous chauffeur. Your attention still needs to remain on driving.
If the system determines that conditions require driver intervention, it can prompt you to resume control.
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Where Can You Use ProPILOT Assist 2.1?
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is designed primarily for compatible highways that have been mapped using high definition road data.
It is not simply a feature that can be activated on every road.
Availability depends on the roadway, lane markings, weather, traffic conditions and other factors. Even on a compatible highway, there may be situations where the driver needs to take over.
For Los Angeles area drivers who spend a significant amount of time commuting on freeways, this is where the technology can become particularly interesting.
Is ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Self Driving?
No.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is an advanced driver assistance system, not a fully autonomous driving system.
The driver remains responsible for the vehicle at all times.
When conditions allow, the system can assist with steering, acceleration and braking and permit hands off driving within a single lane on compatible highways. However, the driver must remain attentive to the road and ready to immediately take control.
That distinction is important when comparing advanced driver assistance technologies.
Which 2027 QX65 Has ProPILOT Assist 2.1?
Every 2027 INFINITI QX65 comes standard with the hands on version of ProPILOT Assist.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is available on the QX65 AUTOGRAPH when equipped with the Technology Package.
The QX65 AUTOGRAPH Technology Package also includes a 3D Around View Monitor with Spin Capability, Driver Monitoring System, towing equipment, Trailer Sway Control and additional equipment.
So if ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is one of the features you specifically want in a QX65, you will want to look for an AUTOGRAPH equipped with the Technology Package.
https://www.glendaleinfiniti.com/2026/09/15/2027-infiniti-qx65-trim-levels/
Is ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Available on the QX60?
Yes.
The 2027 INFINITI QX60 also comes standard with hands on ProPILOT Assist.
ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is available on the 2027 QX60 AUTOGRAPH with the Technology Package, where it can provide hands off assistance under limited conditions on compatible highways.
This gives shoppers another technology consideration when deciding between the two row QX65 and three row QX60.
What About the INFINITI QX80?
ProPILOT Assist technology is also offered throughout the QX80 lineup, with availability depending on trim and equipment.
That means shoppers looking at INFINITI's flagship three row SUV can also experience the brand's latest driver assistance technology.
Does ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Require a Subscription?
Vehicles equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.1 include a trial period for the connected service required to use the feature.
INFINITI currently includes a three year trial of the ProPILOT Assist 2.1 package on equipped vehicles. Continued use after the trial period requires an active subscription.
Because connected service offerings and pricing can change, owners should check current INFINITI InTouch information when their included trial approaches its expiration date.
Is ProPILOT Assist 2.1 Worth Having?
That depends heavily on how you drive.
Someone who primarily makes short trips around town may not use the system as frequently. Someone who spends significant time commuting on compatible freeways may appreciate it considerably more.
Here in Southern California, where highway driving can make up a large portion of a daily commute, ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is a feature worth experiencing before deciding whether you want it on your next INFINITI.
The best way to understand the difference between standard ProPILOT Assist and ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is not by reading a list of features. It is by seeing how the technology operates from behind the wheel.
Experience INFINITI Driver Assistance Technology at Glendale INFINITI
If you are considering a new INFINITI and want to learn more about ProPILOT Assist or ProPILOT Assist 2.1, visit Glendale INFINITI.
Our team can show you which vehicles and trim levels offer the technology, explain how the different systems work and help you compare available features on models including the QX65, QX60 and QX80.
You can also explore our current INFINITI inventory to find vehicles equipped with the driver assistance features that matter most to you.
