An electronic motor vehicle sensor unit includes a housing, a control and evaluation device arranged in the housing, and at least one capacitive sensor electrode with a detection region (X, X′). The capacitive sensor electrode is coupled to the control and evaluation device and is arranged in the housing. The sensor unit further includes a lighting device with an illuminant that can emit an optical signal, wherein the lighting device is coupled to the control and evaluation device, and a target region (Y) identifying the detection region (X) can be marked outside the housing with the lighting device. The housing, the control and evaluation device, the at least one capacitive sensor electrode and the lighting device form an integrated assembly.