Abstract: A parallel parking assist system and a method for evaluating an area for use as a parking space for a host vehicle, the parallel park assist system comprises a ultra wideband radar sensor disposed in the host vehicle, wherein the radar sensor obtains a measurement data relating to a potential parking space and transmits a data signal representing the measurement data, a processor adapted to receive the transmitted data signal from the sensor, analyze the data signal, and transmit an alert signal in response to the analysis of the data signal, and a user interface adapted to receive the alert signal and provide an alert to the driver of the host vehicle in response to the alert signal, wherein the alert signal represents the suitability of the potential parking space.