At the push of a button, the DISTRONIC PLUS proximity-controlled cruise control helps the driver keep the vehicle at the desired (timed) distance from the vehicle in front when travelling at speeds of 0 to 200 km/h. Radar sensors permanently measure the distance, regulate the speed and engage the brakes as necessary.

The BAS PLUS Brake Assist in conjunction with the PRE-SAFE® brake system now helps to avoid rear-end collisions more effectively. If radar sensors identify a potential collision and the driver applies the brake, BAS PLUS is primed to apply braking in accordance with the available stopping distance.

If a potential collision is detected at a vehicle speed of 30 to 200 km/h and the driver fails to apply the brakes in a timely manner, DISTRONIC PLUS emits visual and audible signals.

If the driver does not respond to this warning, the PRE-SAFE® brake system initiates independent partial braking 1.6 seconds before a calculated impact at a deceleration rate of up to 4m/s2 and activates comprehensive PRE-SAFE® measures. If the system assesses the situation as highly critical, an independent full brake application are initiated 0.6 seconds before the calculated impact. This reduces the impact speed and the resulting severity of the accident.

If ATTENTION ASSIST detects typical signs of a driver falling asleep momentarily at the wheel, the assistance system suggests taking a break. It monitors the driver’s behaviour – primarily using the steering angle sensor on the steering column. If the profile deviates from the previously measured individual profile, visual and audible warnings can be issued.

The ADAPTIVE BRAKE system improves ride comfort and safety by helping to perform critical braking manoeuvres with the basic function of the ABS anti-lock braking system while convenience functions help make it easier to master challenging driving situations.

These include the HOLD function, which is activated with a short press of the brake pedal when stationary. It prevents the car from inadvertently rolling forwards or backwards when stopped at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic. Hill-Start Assist provides support when moving off both forwards and backwards on a hill. The vehicle is held stationary for a brief moment after the driver takes his foot off the brake pedal, thereby providing enough time for him to switch his foot to the accelerator pedal, without the vehicle immediately starting to roll.

The "brake drying" function removes the layer of water which may have built up on the brake discs in wet conditions, thereby helping to ensure that full braking pressure is available without any delay. And with the "priming" program, the brake linings are prepared as soon as the driver quickly takes his foot off the accelerator. This shortens the response time of the brakes and can help to reduce the stopping distance.

When parking or looking for a parking space, the driver can call on the assistance of the PARKTRONIC system. Ultrasonic sensors automatically measure the length of parking spaces parallel to the car when moving at a vehicle speed of 30 km/h or less. If a suitable space is found, Parking Guidance then provides precise instructions on the correct steering angle and points at which to turn.

With its integral camera the system recognises posted speed limits and shows the registered speed limit on the central display. So in particular for sections of road with continually changing road signs or in construction areas the danger of overlooking the speed limit is reduced.

The light package comprises bi-xenon headlamps, featuring variable light distribution for optimum use on secondary roads, motorways and in heavy fog, as well as automatic headlamp range adjustment. With the functions provided by the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, headlamps are dipped automatically when illuminated road users are detected and the light range of the dipped headlamps is aligned with the distance of illuminated oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead. The Adaptive Highbeam Assist also increases the range of the dipped headlamps by up to 300 m to ensure that the layout of the road, pedestrians or critical situations can be detected at an earlier stage and more effectively. On free stretches of road the headlamps are set to full beam again and the widest possible light range used. It is no longer necessary to switch manually back and forth between high and low beam settings.

The active light function and the cornering light feature in the fog lamps are further components of the package. Making yourself seen is an essential part of driving safety. The daytime driving lights and LED turn indicator lamps are effective in attracting the attention of other road users, and the integrated headlamp cleaning system minimises dirt build-up on the vehicle's lighting system.

The Blind Spot Assist system uses short-range radar sensors to monitor the areas to the left, right and rear of the vehicle at speeds of between 30 and 250 km/h. If the system detects a vehicle within monitoring range, a red hazard warning triangle lights up in the corresponding exterior mirror.