At the push of a button the DISTRONIC PLUS proximity-controlled cruise control keeps the vehicle at the desired 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.

Parking is also convenient: in Parking Guidance mode the vehicle’s radar sensors determine the size of a parking space. If it is large enough the multifunction display provides very simple and precise instructions on which steering movements can be used to optimally park the car.

DISTRONIC PLUS is another feature which contributes to safety. The Blind Spot Assist uses proximity radar sensors and, at speeds of between 30 and 250 km/h, monitors the area to the left and right and behind the car. If another vehicle is within monitoring range, a hazard warning triangle lights up in the relevant exterior mirror.

The system also includes the BAS PLUS braking assist system which helps shorten the stopping distance during an emergency braking situation. The PRE-SAFE® brake adds to the system by providing autonomous braking deceleration when the vehicle’s radar sensors detect the possibility of a collision.

KEYLESS-GO is an electronic drive authorisation system which allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle without having to use a key. The driver need only carry the KEYLESS-GO transponder and pull the door handle. Simply pressing the start/stop button starts the car.

The Night View Assist improves visibility when it is dark outside. A camera films the road illuminated by an anti-dazzle infrared headlamp and transmits an image in black and white to the multifunction display. This helps the driver to quickly recognize obstacles, poorly lit road users and the layout of unlit roads.

In addition to the Night View Assist the vehicle is equipped with a tinted and noise-insulating front windscreen which also reflects infrared light, which in turn supports the system’s function.

COMAND APS is equipped with a hard-disk-based navigation system with a 3D map display plus an 8-inch colour screen. Together with the COMAND controller on the central console it serves as the central control unit for all telematics components.

Besides its outstanding e-mail and WAP capability the system’s entertainment functions include a twin tuner radio, a DVD drive which is video and MP3-compatible, an equalizer with speed-sensitive volume control and separate volume adjustment for audio and telephone and a 20 GB hard disk. An Aux-in connection in the glove compartment, a slot for SD memory cards and a Bluetooth interface provide connections to external data devices and a mobile telephone. In addition the Gracenote® database supplies information on the album and artist for CDs and DVDs. The optional LINGUATRONIC allows you to operate COMAND APS using voice entry.

The active multicontour seat allows even better adjustment to individual seating needs, tunes itself to each driving situation, massages the back muscles and reduces the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

Depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and speed the air cushions in the seat side bolsters are tightened pneumatically in two stages such that ideal lateral support is guaranteed even when the driver is employing a very dynamic driving style. After the dynamic function is switched off the previously selected pressure in the side chambers are automatically reset symmetrically.

The massage function prevents the back muscles from becoming tired on long drives. It supports the principle of "dynamic sitting" which is recommended by orthopaedists. That is why the multicontour seat has been given the AGR quality seal by the "Aktion gesunder Rücken e. V." ("Campaign for healthy backs") which is awarded to products which are especially good for the back.

Besides its benefits for health and comfort, the active multicontour seat also contributes to safety: when PRE-SAFE® is activated, the PRE-SAFE® positioning function will automatically move the front passenger seat into a position which is favourable in the event of an accident.