Does it mean the PCS is camera-based-only on this model?

Yes. 2017 iM had camera only “Safety Sense C” package (auto headlights / lane departure alert / pre-collision system / regular cruise control). Not the radar + camera “Safety Sense P” package (auto headlights / lane departure alert / pre-collision system with pedestrian detection / Dynamic radar cruise control) that was available on other models.

 

I think I am not convinced PCS can work reliably with just a single (not even a stereo) camera. Any feedback on iM PCS in action?

 

I am not convinced PCS can work reliably with just a single (not even a stereo) camera

Indeed the radar version offer more precise detection, especially for smaller objects (hence the “pedestrian detection” thing). But neither pretend to totally avoid collision, and even less replace driver attention. None of the two systems is “autopilot” (and even if it were, Tesla system is far from perfect, remember Mr Brown…).

Both “C” (camera only) and “P” (radar+camera) systems are rather collision mitigation system between 10 to 100 mph (less if object is smaller, even with radar). They alert the driver and if there is no reaction, they’ll slow the car as much as possible (laws of physics still apply such as road condition, tires and brake condition, behavior of the “target”, etc.).

So basically, what you’d gain with a model with radar is detection of smaller objects. In day to day driving, you’d gain radar cruise control.

 

Found some info to answer my own question. It turns out TSS-C uses a camera and a LASER, while TSS-P uses a camera and and a radar. Below is Toyota flyer explaining the difference.

 

I personally which that my 2017 Corolla iM didn't have it. My driveway is sloped up and one time I was pulling in as the garage door was still going up. Due to the angle of the driveway, the system thought I was going to hit the garage door and scared the hell out of me when it braked.

My 2017 RAV4 has radar cruise control but I'm not a huge fan. Luckily I can still engage normal CC on it and not use the radar CC. I'm happy that my iM has normal CC.