E-class 4Matic’s handling is partly due to its permanent sophisticated AWD system and partly to the array of high-tech electronic controls onboard. Systems like 4ETS electronic traction control system, ESP and ASR. The car also has a highly sophisticated DIRECT CONTROL suspension with adaptive shock absorbers. The air suspension system – optional for all 4MATIC models and standard on the E 500 4MATIC – is combined with a continuously variable, electronically controlled damping system that processes a series of sensor signals and controls each wheel individually. Like so, high level comfort and agility is achieved simultaneously.
This system is also optimized for efficiency as its fuel consumption is between 0.2 and 0.6 litres more per hundred kilometres than non-4Matic models.
Since this car is meant to take on wintry conditions, Mercedes has fitted it with a new automatic air condition system called THERMOTRONIC. Apart from regulating the climate separately for the driver, front passenger and passengers in the rear, this system allows individual pre-settings to be programmed too. It furthermore includes a pollutant sensor which automatically switches to air recirculation mode if it detects any sudden increase in the carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxide levels in the outside air – when driving through a tunnel, for instance. This system is an optional add-on for the car’s standard THERMATIC dual-zone climate control.
