Audi has always been at the forefront of automotive technology, and its parking assist features are no exception. Over the years, Audi has developed advanced driver-assistance systems that make parking in tight spaces a breeze. This commitment to innovation is especially important in today's urban environments, where finding and navigating into a parking spot can be a real challenge.
For Long Island drivers, these parking assist features can be a game-changer. This article explores Audi's parking assist features and tips on parking in the city.
An In-Depth Look at Audi's Park Assist
​silver car beside wall by Nathan Van Egmond is licensed with Unsplash License
Park assist will automatically steer your car into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces, using ultrasonic sensors on the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. As you drive past parking spaces, the sensors measure them at a moderate speed — up to 12.4 mph for perpendicular spaces and up to 18.6 mph for parallel spaces. When the system finds a suitable spot, a message appears on your Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) display.
While parking, your role is limited to accelerating, shifting gears, and braking; the system takes care of the steering. Audible signals guide you throughout the process. If needed, this intelligent parking assist system will make multiple maneuvers, moving forward and backward, and it can even help you exit parallel parking spaces. Depending on your vehicle model, you activate the system using a button on the center console or the lower infotainment display. For all parking maneuvers, the maximum speed is 4.3 mph.
To use park assist, follow these steps:
- Activate the system by engaging reverse gear and pressing the park assist button.
- Pay attention to the MMI display for information about your surroundings.
- Listen for audible cues and watch for visual warnings on the display.
- Use the virtual driving path and lateral guidelines to help position your vehicle.
- Always remain aware of your surroundings and be prepared to take control if needed.
Tips for Maximizing Park Assist Efficiency
To get the best results from your Audi's parking assist features:
- Position your vehicle properly before engaging the system. For parallel parking, align your car with the vehicle in front of the desired space.
- Understand the system's limitations. While highly advanced, it may not detect all obstacles, especially in poor weather conditions.
- Combine the technology with your own judgment. Park assist is a tool to aid you, not replace your decision-making.
- Practice using the system in a low-stress environment to become more comfortable with its features.
Other Audi Parking Technologies
As well as park assist, Audi offers a range of other technologies to help you park.
Audi Park Assist Plus
If you're looking for even more advanced features, Audi's park assist plus offers enhanced capabilities compared to the standard park assist. While specific features may vary by model, some versions of park assist plus include semi-autonomous parking capabilities, where the car can take control of steering, acceleration, and braking to park itself.
Parking System Plus
Audi's parking system plus is a sophisticated system that uses ultrasonic sensors to measure distances up to 35.4 inches from your vehicle. This system provides both visual and audible warnings to help you park safely. As you get closer to objects, the frequency of the audible warnings increases, becoming a constant tone when you're within 11.8 inches of an obstacle.
The MMI display shows white segments for objects outside your driving path and red segments for those within it. This color coding helps you quickly identify potential hazards. The system also displays a virtual driving path with lateral guidelines, making it easier to visualize your parking maneuver.
Maneuvering Assist
With maneuvering assist, you're alerted to moving and stationary objects larger than 3.9 inches — whether it's a pillar in a parking garage or a passing vehicle. The system helps you avoid potential collisions by giving warning steering impulses and, if necessary, autonomously braking the car to a stop, as long as you're traveling forward or in reverse at no more than 6.2 mph. You can monitor its steering and parking interventions through the optical parking system displayed on your MMI. To scan your surroundings, the system relies on ultrasonic sensors and 360-degree cameras, ensuring precise detection and control.
Curb Warning System
The curb warning system is a unique feature that identifies curbs that could potentially damage your tires or wheels and leave you needing vehicle repair. It operates at speeds up to 6.2 mph and alerts you through the optical parking system display on the MMI monitor. This feature is particularly useful in urban areas with high curbs or in parking garages with concrete barriers.
Experience Audi's Advanced Parking Technology at Audi of Huntington
Audi's parking assist features are available on a wide range of models, from compact sedans to luxury SUVs. To truly understand the benefits of these technologies, it's best to experience them firsthand. Schedule a test-drive at Audi of Huntington, and see how Audi's parking technologies can transform your driving experience.
Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the various options available and help you choose the Audi model that best fits your needs. Whether you're navigating the busy streets of Huntington Station or tackling parking challenges across Long Island, Audi's innovative technology can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
