What is the Audi Virtual Cockpit?

Say hello to Virtual Cockpit, Audi’s high-tech dashboard display screen.

Most new cars today – aside from the most budget-friendly options – come with a digital instrument cluster. Audi was one of the first to introduce this tech, calling its system Virtual Cockpit. This digital display sits behind the steering wheel, replacing traditional analogue dials for speed and revs with a customisable, information-rich screen.

Audi continues to offer Virtual Cockpit across its entire range, and it now comes as standard on all new models. If you’re considering an Audi but you’re unsure about its digital dashboard, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What is a virtual cockpit?

A virtual cockpit is a digital screen that takes the place of the traditional analogue dials behind the wheel. You can use it like an infotainment system, pulling up everything from your music and sat-nav to other car info. Just keep in mind, it’s not a touchscreen. You’ll usually control it using voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel.

Virtual Cockpit first showed up in the 2014 Audi TT, and a version of it also appeared in the Lamborghini Huracan that same year. Today, the tech has made its way across most of the Audi lineup and now comes as standard in the majority of new models.

How does a virtual cockpit work?

At the heart of the Virtual Cockpit is a 12.3-inch screen that fits neatly within the car’s instrument binnacle. This screen displays a variety of vehicle information, including speed, engine revs, navigation, and media controls. Drivers can personalise the layout by choosing from preset modes or selecting specific data to display on either side of the screen.

Control is mainly via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel, allowing easy navigation through menus while keeping hands on the wheel. In some models, voice commands or a rotary controller give you additional control options.

The Virtual Cockpit is integrated with the car’s infotainment system (such as Audi’s MMI), giving you access to music, phone contacts, navigation directions, and more directly from the display. This seamless integration helps you stay informed and connected without taking your eyes off the road.

Features of the virtual cockpit

Audi’s Virtual Cockpit shows key info such as fuel economy, navigation, media, phone connectivity, and driver assistance alerts, all in one place. Key features include:

• Digital display: Replaces traditional gauges with a high-resolution screen.
• Customisable views: Switch between modes such as “classic” (traditional dials) and “infotainment” (media, maps, etc.).
• Navigation: Shows maps, directions, and route info.
• Vehicle stats: Displays fuel economy, range, and other driving data.
• Phone connectivity: Access calls, messages, and contacts.
• Media controls: Manage music, audiobooks, and other media.
• Driver assistance: Shows alerts and warnings from safety systems.
• Voice control: Supports hands-free commands.
• Steering wheel controls: Navigate menus and switch views with wheel-mounted buttons.
• Audi Drive Select: Toggle between different driving modes.

Is the virtual cockpit worth it?

For most drivers, yes. The Virtual Cockpit is easy to use once you get the hang of it, and the extra functionality it offers is definitely helpful. It displays things such as navigation directions right in your line of sight, so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road as much.

However, the steering wheel is different from the one in models without the system, so retrofitting Virtual Cockpit to an Audi that didn’t come with it from the factory usually isn’t worth it.

Virtual cockpit FAQs

How much is the Audi virtual cockpit?

Virtual Cockpit comes as standard on all new Audi models, so you don’t have to pay anything extra for it. It used to be a £1,500 add-on for some versions, but not anymore.

Does the Audi virtual cockpit include navigation?

Yes, Audi Virtual Cockpit can show navigation info like turn-by-turn directions and map views, along with speed, RPM, and gear selection. You can access navigation through the main screen or switch the Virtual Cockpit to nav mode. It also supports Audi Connect for real-time traffic, map updates, and Google Earth imagery.

Can you add an Audi virtual cockpit?

Yes, it’s possible to add an Audi Virtual Cockpit to older Audi models that did not come with it from the factory. It’s a retrofit job, which usually means swapping out the original instrument cluster for a Virtual Cockpit unit – and you might need to upgrade the infotainment system (modular infotainment platform) too, depending on the car.

Does Audi Virtual Cockpit work with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Audi’s Virtual Cockpit doesn’t run Apple CarPlay or Android Auto directly, except in models such as the TT and R8, where the interface can appear in the display. In most models, it works alongside them through the central touchscreen, usually via Audi’s MMI.

When CarPlay or Android Auto is active, maps, messages, and apps appear on the central screen. The Virtual Cockpit doesn’t show the full interface but can display related info such as navigation prompts or media details, depending on the car’s setup.

So while it’s not the main screen for smartphone projection, the Virtual Cockpit acts as a useful companion, keeping key details in view without duplicating everything from your phone.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.