What are the Differences Between ADAS Level 1 and Level 2?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Jul 8, 2026

4 min read Suzuki R&D Centre India

Driving is getting safer and smarter with the Advanced Driver Assistance System. ADAS feature supports drivers by using smart technology to control things like speed, braking, & steering in certain situations. There are different levels of ADAS, from Level 0 (zero automation) to Level 5 (complete automation). Levels 1 and 2 are generally termed ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), while Levels 3 to 5 are degrees of autonomous driving. To better understand the distinction between these levels, it's important to note that the level of control the system can assume varies significantly.

The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 ADAS is how much control the system can take.

In Level 1 (Driver Assistance) , the system can assist with only one function at a time—either steering or braking/acceleration.
In Level 2 (Partial Automation), the system can manage multiple functions at the same time, like steering, speed, and braking. This offers more support to the driver, especially in certain driving conditions like highway travel.

However, in both levels, the driver must always stay alert and be ready to take control when needed. In this blog, we’ll explain ADAS Level 1 & Level 2 in simple words to help you choose wisely.

Key Differences Between Level 1 vs Level 2 ADAS

Features	ADAS Level 1	ADAS Level 2
Automation	Controls either steering or speed, not both	Controls both steering and speed at the same time
Driver Role	Must keep hands on wheel and stay fully alert	Must keep hands on wheel and supervise the system
Typical Features	Single functions like ACC, LKA, or AEB	Multiple functions working together (Highway Assist, Lane Centering, etc.)
Automation Level	Partial assistance (shared control)	Partial automation (semi-automated driving)
Hands-on Pedals/Wheel	Can lift foot from pedals sometimes, hands on wheel required	Hands off pedals, sometimes brief hands off the wheel, but driver alertness needed
Driver Supervision	Always required	Always required
Complexity and Cost	Simpler and cheaper	More complex and expensive
Safety and Comfort	Basic help slightly reduces the workload	Better safety and comfort, reduces fatigue on highways

Conclusion

ADAS Level 2 is generally considered safer than Level 1 due to its enhanced level of control and automation.

Both ADAS Level 1 & Level 2 help drivers and improve safety. But Level 2 is a big step up because it automates more driving tasks at the same time. Level 2 makes driving easier and safer, but still needs the driver’s full attention.

However, even with Level 2, the driver must stay focused. The system can help, but it doesn’t drive the car by itself. You still need to watch the road & be ready to take control.

As car technology improves, it’s important to understand each ADAS level. This helps you pick the system that fits your needs. It gives you the right mix of safety, comfort, & control while driving.