Alec Ortega
A surround-view camera system, also known as a 360-degree camera, is an advanced driver assistance system that enhances visibility and driver confidence in slow-moving parking situations. This technology uses multiple cameras around a vehicle to capture all sides of the car at the same time and then stitches these images together to create a unified overhead shot. This bird's-eye view is particularly useful when parking in tight spots near support posts or solid walls, helping drivers avoid curb scrapes and manoeuvre around pillars and other objects.
While surround-view cameras were once only available on top-of-the-line luxury models, they are now offered as standard or optional equipment by most automakers, particularly on uplevel models and trim levels. Some of the car models that offer this feature include:
- Nissan Kicks SR
- Mazda CX-5 Signature
- Chevrolet Equinox Premier
- Toyota RAV4 Limited
- Hyundai Santa Fe Limited
- Genesis GV80
- Honda Prologue
- Mini Countryman
- BMW CLE
- Acura ZDX
- Infiniti QX80
- Buick Enclave
- Ford Explorer
- Toyota Tacoma
- Lexus TX
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Lexus GX
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Make | Acura, Aston Martin, BMW, Buick, Chevrolet, Ford, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen |
| Model | MDX, Vantage, 7-Series, Enclave, Equinox, Explorer, G90, Prologue, Countryman, QX30, Optima, Range Rover, TX, GX, Countryman, Rogue, Kicks, Forester, RAV4, Tiguan, CX-5, Santa Fe, GLA-Class, Outlander, Eclipse Cross, Tucson, Kicks SR, Crown Signia, Tacoma, Land Cruiser, ZDX |
What You'll Learn
How does a surround camera system work?
A surround-view camera system, also known as a 360-degree camera, enhances visibility and driver confidence in slow-moving parking situations. It gives the driver a 360-degree view of their vehicle as though they are seeing it from above, like a bird's-eye view. This technology is especially useful when backing into or out of a confined space, such as a narrow parking spot.
A surround-view camera system uses multiple cameras placed around a vehicle to capture all sides simultaneously. The technology then stitches these images together to create a unified overhead shot. The top-down roof perspective is simulated to provide context for the driver, but the 360-degree image is live and real.
Most surround-view camera systems use four cameras, typically located on the front and rear bumpers and the underside of the side mirror housings. However, some systems may use up to six cameras, adding side-view cameras positioned ahead of the front wheels. The video signals from these cameras are fed into an image-processing program, which then creates the final, seamless 360-degree image.
In addition to the top-down view, modern surround-view camera systems can offer other perspectives, such as a view of the passenger's side of the vehicle or what's directly behind it. These different views can be extremely helpful when navigating tight spaces or pulling out of a blind alley.
The image from the surround-view camera system is usually displayed on the vehicle's infotainment screen, often in a split-screen format alongside the backup camera view. This technology is now offered by most automakers, particularly on uplevel models and trim levels. It is also available as an aftermarket option for older vehicles that do not have this feature.
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Which car brands offer surround camera systems?
A surround-view camera, also known as a 360-degree camera, is an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that provides a 360-degree view of a vehicle from above, as if viewed by a low-hovering drone. This feature aids drivers in navigating tight parking spots and manoeuvring around obstacles.
Nearly every automaker offers at least one model with a 360-degree camera, although it is usually only available on higher-priced trim levels or as an expensive add-on for most mainstream car brands.
- Acura
- BMW
- Genesis
- Infiniti
- Kia
- Hyundai
- Lincoln
- Nissan
- Toyota
- Mitsubishi
- Mazda
- Honda
- Chevrolet
- Lexus
- Mini
- Mercedes-Benz
- Aston Martin
- Buick
- Ford
- Volvo
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How much do cars with surround camera systems cost?
The cost of a car with a surround camera system varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Generally, only a handful of new models with a 360-degree camera cost less than $40,000. The average price point for mainstream models that include 360-degree cameras is between $37,000 and $40,000.
For example, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, which is one of the best-selling models in its lineup, offers a 360-degree camera on the range-topping SEL Premium R-Line grade, priced at $39,815. Similarly, the 2020 Mazda CX-5, which has a starting price of $38,100, includes a 360-degree camera on the range-topping CX-5 Signature trim.
Some vehicles, such as the 2020 Nissan Kicks, offer a 360-degree camera on the range-topping trim for under $23,000, making it one of the most affordable options. On the other hand, luxury vehicles like the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, starting at $81,300, and the 2025 Infiniti QX80, starting at $111,895, also offer surround camera systems.
It is worth noting that while a 360-degree camera system can be a valuable safety feature, it is often an expensive add-on for most vehicles, typically included in higher trim levels or bundled into option packages.
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What are the benefits of a surround camera system?
A surround camera system, also known as a 360-degree camera, is an advanced driver assistance system that enhances visibility and driver confidence in slow-moving parking situations. It provides a 360-degree view of the area surrounding a vehicle, making parking and manoeuvring easier and safer. This is especially useful when parallel parking or pulling into a narrow parking space.
Improved Visibility and Safety
A surround camera system offers a bird's-eye view of your vehicle and its surroundings, as if you were seeing it from above. This top-down perspective gives you a better understanding of your vehicle's geography and helps you guide it safely in or out of a parking spot. The system also allows you to spot pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles that may be in your blind spots, reducing the risk of accidents or collisions.
Ease of Parking and Manoeuvring
The cameras and sensors of a surround camera system work together to give you a comprehensive view of your vehicle's surroundings. This makes it easier to navigate tight parking spaces and avoid obstacles or collisions. Parking sensors integrated with the camera system provide audible or visual alerts when objects are detected nearby, helping you avoid scraping or bumping into other vehicles.
Peace of Mind and Confidence While Driving
The comprehensive view provided by a surround camera system gives you a better understanding of your vehicle's surroundings, reducing the chances of accidents or collisions. You can drive with confidence, knowing that you have a clear view of potential obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles in your vicinity. The bird's-eye view offered by the system gives you a unique perspective, allowing you to see areas that may be blind spots in traditional mirrors.
Enhanced Awareness of Parking Spaces
A surround camera system allows you to see obstacles, curbs, and other vehicles near your parking space, helping you avoid collisions or accidental damage. Parallel parking becomes much easier and safer as you can easily judge distances and park accurately.
Additional Features
Some surround camera systems offer multiple viewing options, allowing you to see the sides of your vehicle, what's in front of the car below the field of vision, or what is directly behind it. This can be extremely useful when navigating tricky situations, such as pulling out of a blind alley or manoeuvring off-road. Some systems also superimpose guidelines onto the image, showing the vehicle's current orientation and expected direction of travel.
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Can you install a surround camera system on an older car?
Yes, you can install a surround camera system on an older car. This is known as an aftermarket installation.
Aftermarket 360-degree camera systems can be purchased and installed in your car. These systems typically include four cameras, required cables, and a control box. Some kits may also include a display screen or remote control. The cameras are usually integrated into the car body panels, with one in the middle of the front grille, two in the side view/wing mirrors, and one above the license plate.
The cost of these aftermarket camera kits can range from $200 to $900, and that's just for the hardware. If you choose to have a professional handle the installation, you can expect to pay an additional $300 to $500 for labour.
It is important to note that installing a 360-degree camera system in an older car may be more complex than simply affixing cameras to the vehicle and linking them to a control unit. Proper calibration and positioning of the cameras will require careful planning, measuring, and fine-tuning to ensure optimal performance.
By installing a surround camera system in your older car, you can enhance your driving experience and safety. These systems provide a bird's-eye view of your vehicle, making parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces easier. They also help to reduce blind spots and improve visibility.
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Frequently asked questions
A surround camera system, also known as a 360-degree camera, enhances visibility and driver confidence in slow-moving parking situations. It gives a 360-degree view of the vehicle from above, like a bird's-eye view, to help guide the car safely in or out of a parking spot.
A surround camera system uses multiple cameras positioned around the vehicle to capture all sides simultaneously. These images are then stitched together to create a unified overhead shot, giving the driver an overall sense of the vehicle's geography.
Many automakers offer a surround camera system as standard or optional equipment, particularly on uplevel models and trim levels. Some of the cars that offer this feature include the Nissan Rogue, Infiniti QX30, BMW 5 Series, Lincoln, Hyundai, Kia K5, Genesis, and Toyota RAV4.
A surround camera system can help prevent low-speed accidents and curb rash on wheels while maneuvering and parking a vehicle. It is especially useful for larger vehicles, as it provides unprecedented visibility. Additionally, it can serve as a safeguard to see if there are any children or pets standing nearby.
Yes, aftermarket surround camera systems are available for older models that don't offer this technology. However, these kits may not perform as well as factory-installed ones, as they are not tailored specifically to the make and model of your car.
