The Summit of Perfection with 4MATIC models: More traction for All

At the 4MATIC workshop in Hochgurgl, Austria, Mercedes-Benz will display an excerpt of its broad range of all-wheel drive vehicles this year. The evolution of the all-wheel drive system in recent decades is illustrated in Hochgurgl by a 4x4 milestone: an E-Class Estate of model series 124 from 1989. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system celebrated its world premiere in this model series almost three decades ago at the International Motor Show in 1985.

A significant part of the success of the compact class model family from Mercedes-Benz is due to the 4MATIC versions, which excel with exemplary efficiency despite the improved traction. In the recently revised B-Class the all-wheel drive fun and safety now already starts at 130 g CO₂/km for the B 200 CDI 4MATIC. On location in Hochgurgl will be the GLA-Class, which is optionally also available with the new generation of the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution. In addition, the new CLA Shooting Brake will be complementing the Mercedes-Benz model range when sales commence in January 2015. The newcomer will already be available as a CLA 250 4MATIC and as a top-of-the-line CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC model from the market launch in March.

Also all-new is the V-Class with permanent all-wheel drive. The V 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC comes to the starting line in December 2014. The V-Class features the same all-wheel drive system as the C- and S-Class, which are also the focus of the 4MATIC workshop.

The members of the new compact class family from Mercedes-Benz such as the CLA- and GLA-Class come optionally equipped with the new generation of the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with fully variable torque distribution.

Among the innovative components of this new 4MATIC system are the power take-off to the rear axle, which is integrated into the 7G-DCT automated dual clutch transmission, and the rear differential with integrated, hydraulically actuated multi-disc clutch. This set-up allows fully variable distribution of the drive torque between the front and rear axles. Additional benefits of this design are a lower system weight compared with the competition, and high efficiency. As with their front-wheel drive counterparts, all 4MATIC models also boast good energy efficiency.

The new 4MATIC is combined with the 7G-DCT seven-speed automated dual clutch transmission. The power flow to the rear drive train is provided by a compact power take-off unit (PTU) which is fully integrated into the main transmission and supplied with lubricant from the latter's oil circuit. This configuration gives rise to substantial weight advantages over competitor systems that branch off power by means of an add-on component with its own oil circuit. In conjunction with the friction-minimised tapered roller bearings, the PTU thus achieves an excellent level of efficiency.

The low system weight of the 4MATIC system is not attributable solely to the PTU. Other weight-stripping measures include a compact rear differential, inductively hardened, weight-optimised rear-axle half shafts and weight-optimised prop shafts. The system weight of this 4MATIC is up to 25 percent lower than in the all-wheel drive versions offered by the competition.

The two-piece drive shaft is decoupled in terms of vibrations. An axially moving joint at the front compensates for longitudinal movements of the engine transmission unit, while an elastic flexible coupling reduces the intrusion of high-frequency gearing vibrations at the rear differential. To minimise crash loads, the drive shaft is fitted with a telescoping element.

The electrohydraulically actuated multi-disc clutch integrated into the rear differential is responsible for the fully variable torque distribution. Fundamental operating principle: when the multi-disc clutch is open, the car is driven exclusively by the front axle. When the clutch is closed, the rear axle comes into play. However, the drive torque can be shifted in fully variable mode between front and rear axle according to the given situation (torque on demand).

The system pressure to activate the rear axle is supplied in milliseconds by a gerotor pump integrated into the rear differential. The pump is activated automatically as soon as only minimal speed differences arise between front and rear axles, and pressure control and therefore torque control to the rear axle is performed by means of a proportioning valve integrated into the rear axle.

The 4MATIC system is activated according to the basic principle of "as often as necessary, as rarely as possible". In other words: when the underlying conditions allow, the all-wheel drive compact models run in particularly economical front-wheel drive mode. As soon as the driving situation requires, drive torque is channelled to the rear axle as appropriate. The reverse process takes place just as quickly: as soon as additional drive torque is no longer necessary at the rear axle – e.g. in case of heavy braking manoeuvres with ABS intervention – the rear drive train is deactivated and torque is reduced to zero.

In case of impending understeer or oversteer under load, the drive torque is first of all distributed in such a way as to stabilise the vehicle. Only if these measures fail to have a stabilising effect do the control systems adapted to the conditions of 4MATIC, such as ESP^® or 4ETS, intervene and keep the vehicle on course.

AMG Performance 4MATIC – this innovative variant of the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system remains the domain of the powerful compact models from Mercedes-AMG. It ensures an optimal mix of dynamics, traction and efficiency. This is made possible by fully variable torque distribution which ranges from purely front-wheel drive to a distribution of 50:50. When there is a so-called friction jump, i.e. when only the front wheels briefly lose grip on an icy surface, the entire torque is transferred to the rear wheels almost instantaneously. The three-stage ESP^®, which is the hallmark of the AMG models, offers three tailor-made driving modes: "ESP ON", "SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" can be selected at the push of a button.

Breathtakingly sporty proportions and a powerfully dynamic design idiom with sensuously shaped surfaces already made the CLA unmistakable as a four-door coupé. It is now followed by the CLA Shooting Brake, another design icon with stylish sportiness, modern luxury and shapes of sensuous clarity. The low overall height and the elongated coupé-style roof contour line, the low greenhouse, the sweep of the high beltline and the roof contour line that drops slightly towards the rear are the distinctive design features of its profile.

The elegantly long drawn-out Shooting Brake tail end, in conjunction with the variability that this offers, guarantees exceptional recreational value without compromising on the CLA's aspiration to represent design at its best. At the same time, headroom in the rear is significantly greater than in the four-door CLA. At 94.7 cm, the effective headroom in the rear is 4 cm more than in the companion model.

The load compartment offers a capacity that ranges from 495 to 1354 litres (when loaded to the upper edge of the rear seat backrests or loaded to the roof with the rear bench seat folded down, respectively). If the rear seats are moved into the more steeply raked "cargo" position, the load capacity increases to 595 litres while still leaving space for five passengers.

With a C_d value of 0.26 the CLA Shooting Brake also delivers convincing aerodynamics. The drag area C_d x A, crucial for aerodynamic drag, is 0.57 m².

The CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC Shooting Brake is the fourth compact AMG high-performance car after the successful A 45 AMG 4MATIC, CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC and GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC models, and captivates with unique spaciousness and the unrivalled combination of exhilarating driving dynamics, great everyday practicality, and great individuality. The sensational avant-garde vehicle concept of the CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC Shooting Brake enables an attractive entry into the fascinating world of AMG. With an output of 265 kW (360 hp) and a peak torque of 450 Nm, the 2.0-litre turbo engine is the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine in series production.

The CLA Shooting Brake is available as a CLA 250 4MATIC model (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1439 mm) and as a CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC model (length/width/height: 4691/1777/1417 mm) already at launch. It goes on sale in January 2015, with the first models going to customers towards the end of March 2015.

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

Progressive in design, serene in day-to-day motoring and with good off-road capability: a wanderer between automotive worlds, the Mercedes-Benz GLA reinterprets the compact SUV segment in convincing style. It light-footedly masters all day-to-day challenges and is also robust enough for off-road excursions.

In the Euro NCAP crash test the GLA earned a five-star rating this year. The result is based on crash tests pursuant to the European NCAP method (New Car Assessment Programme), which was expanded with even stricter conditions in 2014. It takes into account the areas of occupant protection for adults and children, pedestrian protection and safety assistance systems.

Models with 4MATIC are equipped with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) and an off-road transmission mode as standard. DSR is activated by a control button in the centre console, and assists the driver on demanding downhill stretches by maintaining a slow, manually selected vehicle speed within the physical limits when negotiating downhill gradients. This is done with the help of the engine and transmission control systems, and by targeted brake intervention.

When the off-road transmission mode is selected using the transmission mode switch, the shift points and accelerator characteristics are modified so that the requirements for driving on light off-road terrain, and particularly on loose surfaces, can be met. In combination with the Audio 20 CD (standard) and COMAND Online (optional extra), the head unit can also be switched to an On&Offroad display. The vehicle, steering angle, the on or off-road transmission mode and a compass are displayed there. The roll angle in degrees, the gradient in percent and activation of Downhill Speed Regulation DSR are also indicated. Broader and brighter illumination of the route is provided by the Off-road Light function (in conjunction with Intelligent Light System). In the process, the bi-xenon headlamps swivel outwards by 6 degrees, a symmetrical light distribution is set and the light output is increased.

An off-road comfort suspension that raises the ride height by 30 millimetres is available as an optional extra. It delivers improved off-road capabilities thanks to the increased ground clearance, better visibility thanks to the higher seating position, and more comfortable ingress and egress. The off-road comfort suspension is available in conjunction with front-wheel drive and with 4MATIC, as well as with all lines and in the base model. It can be ordered for all engine variants with the exception of the GLA 180, GLA 180 CDI and the GLA 45 AMG. In the GLA 250 it will be available starting in March 2015. With the standard suspension, the lowered suspension (- 15 mm) and the off-road comfort suspension, Mercedes-Benz offers a total of three suspension variants for the GLA.

With the GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz is making a dynamic statement in the strongly growing segment of compact SUVs. The combination of the powerful and distinctive design, exclusive appointments as well as superior engine power and driving performance is unique: the most powerful series-production four-cylinder engine in the world puts 265 kW (360 hp) and 450 Nm on the road. The GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC high-performance SUV also shines with low emissions and fuel consumption figures. With a fuel consumption of 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined; CO₂: 175 g/km) and compliance with the EU 6 emissions standards, the GLA 45 AMG provides proof that at Mercedes-AMG maximum performance does not come at the expense of environmental compatibility. The GLA 45 AMG 4MATIC also holds the pole position with regard to driving dynamics: it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

The 4MATIC drive train used by Mercedes-Benz in this segment is one of the best-performing all-wheel drive systems available; the control systems are considered ground-breaking. The basic design concept, with the engine installed longitudinally and the integral transmission and transfer case unit, produces a compact, lightweight arrangement that minimises frictional losses, heralding a number of benefits compared to other systems. Fuel consumption, for instance, is on a par with that of an equivalent vehicle with conventional drive system.

In concert with the dynamic handling control systems ESP^®, acceleration skid control ASR and 4ETS, the basic 45:55 percent torque split between the front and rear axle ensures superior and predictable handling. When tuning the control systems, the engineers at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Center made it a priority to ensure a defined level of understeer. This configuration manifests itself even under the most varying of road conditions, be it on a dry road, in rain or snow, on ice or on unsurfaced routes.

A double-disc clutch achieving a basic locking torque of approximately 50 Nm between the front and rear axle is fitted to the central differential. The clutch pack is permanently preloaded via a plate spring. In the case of spinning wheels on one of the two axles, a friction torque is transmitted to the axle spinning more slowly by relative movement of the discs. A sustained improvement to traction and directional stability of the vehicle are achieved through this principle of variable torque shift. Particularly in the case of low coefficients of friction between the tyres and the road surface the traction and stabilising effect of this so-called pre-lock clutch is clearly noticeable.

One stand-out feature of the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is the extremely compact design of the transfer case and the lateral output to the front axle. The rear constant velocity joint of the prop shaft to the front axle was integrated into the transfer case's output gear, which significantly reduces the lateral space requirements of the transmission. In addition to reducing weight and improving fuel consumption, this means that the transmission tunnel can be kept very narrow. Consequently, the amount of legroom in the vehicle interior is the same as for the models with rear-wheel drive. The compact design also increases the natural bending frequency of the engine/transmission assembly, which has a positive effect on NVH and quiet-running.

The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, which is optionally available for the E 63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake, S 63 AMG, and S 63 AMG Coupé models, splits the torque between front and rear axle at a ratio of 33 to 67 percent. The rear-biased torque split provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as improved acceleration from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 50 newton metres, which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular.

The technical basis for the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven front axle. It requires no additional installation space, as it is integrated into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with minimum space requirements. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a prop shaft to the front axle. Power transmission from the front-axle differential to the left front drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft  which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact and weight-optimised design results in a comparatively low level of additional weight for the all-wheel drive system of only 70 kilograms, which also helps to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

The all-new C-Class heralds a further chapter in the Mercedes-Benz success story and sets new standards in the premium medium-size category. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight design concept allowing weight savings of up to 100 kilograms, excellent aerodynamics and new, economical engines, the C-Class establishes new efficiency benchmarks in its segment. A host of new assistance systems offer safety of the highest standard, while a new suspension, optionally air-sprung, provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort as well as nimble and agile handling. In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its high-class interior. Many other innovations and interior touches underscore the Saloon's energising comfort and refined sportiness. In all, the high-class appeal of the new C-Class feels like an "upgrade to a higher class of vehicle".

The C-Class has grown to take account of people's increasing average height. With an 80-millimetre increase in the wheelbase (2840 millimetres) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 95 millimetres longer (4686 millimetres) and 40 millimetres wider (1810 millimetres). At 480 litres the new C-Class Saloon also surpasses its predecessor in terms of boot capacity (in accordance with ISO 3832).

On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor. Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emotions. Modern aesthetics were the source of inspiration for the new Saloon's sensuous lines and surfaces, whose harmony and dynamism directly touch everyone who experiences it. The designers have created minimalist, purist forms for the C-Class which emphasise its intelligent technology and engineering. The clearly defined surfaces also deliberately display a degree of tension, lending them a modern and at the same time emotional character. Precise lines and sculptural surfaces create progressive light and shadow effects.

The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories. This applies to the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details. The interior also embodies a new design idiom which perfectly combines sensuousness and clarity with dynamic sportiness and contributes to the extraordinary high-class appeal of the interior.

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

Figures for Estate model in brackets

One year after the launch in all key markets, Mercedes-Benz has already delivered more than 100,000 S-Class models worldwide. Never before have so many vehicles of the luxury saloon been delivered to customers in the first year of full availability. As such, to date this constitutes the most successful market launch of an S-Class.

With three development priorities focusing on "Intelligent Drive", "Efficient Technology" and "Essence of Luxury", the new S-Class is broadening technical horizons at many levels. Perfection down to the last detail creates "The Essence of Luxury". These efforts to be the best can be seen, for example, in the vehicle interior: whether the seats or the air conditioning, whether operation or design, whether infotainment or rear-seat comfort and safety – new ideas, their painstaking realisation and the very highest perceived quality underline the expectations of the engineers for the Mercedes-Benz flagship model – and for themselves.

The same applies to safety: what began with PRE-SAFE^® ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have merged into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this Intelligent Drive. A host of new systems make the new S-Class even more comfortable and safe.

The S-Class operates with superior efficiency. By implementing "Efficient Technology", within ten years Mercedes-Benz has for example almost halved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category to 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The drag coefficient of the S-Class improves on its predecessor once again, setting the new benchmark in its segment at Cd = 0.24. Thanks to further aerodynamic detail improvements, the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID even betters these figures and achieves a new Cd benchmark of 0.23. The new model is also the first car worldwide to dispense completely with light-bulbs, for example – it only has LEDs. This too points the way to the future.

The S 63 AMG is the most powerful high-performance V8 saloon in the luxury segment and sets new highlights in terms of driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency. The AMG 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine – the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, with an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and torque of 900 Nm – delivers effortlessly superior performance. The combination of efficient drive system and reduced vehicle weight results in an overall NEDC fuel consumption of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The S 63 AMG is optionally available with AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. This not only enhances traction – the S 63 AMG 4MATIC also represents a new dimension in driving dynamics in its segment. The design, equipment and appointments of the S 63 AMG 4MATIC meet the highest standards in terms of high-class appeal, quality and perfection.

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

*Identical figures for models with short and long wheelbase

Stylistically self-assured presence, exclusive appointments and refined sportiness – the S-Class Coupé from Mercedes-Benz combines the classic proportions of a large, sporty coupé with modern luxury and pioneering technology. The S-Class Coupé is characterised by typical rear-wheel drive proportions, emphasised by the signature Mercedes dropping line. The long bonnet with pronounced lines and powerdomes, the low greenhouse with high beltline, the accentuated wheel arches as well as the large wheels (18- to 20-inch) and the broad visual effect created by the rear reinforce the S-Class Coupé's aspirations as a masterpiece of automotive refinement. With a wheelbase of 2945 mm, the coupé is 5027 mm long, 1899 mm wide and 1411 mm high.

Its convex and concave modelled surfaces give the S-Class Coupé a sensuous character. The sculpted appearance lends it classic elegance that forms a perfect symbiosis with the modern, progressive design idiom. The full-LED headlamps with their iconic eyebrows as daytime running lamps lend it an extremely self-assured and distinctive gaze. On the S-Class Coupé the eyebrows have been further refined with a semicircular counter-curve.

The interior design of the new S-Class Coupé is an enthralling combination of sculptural, sensuous volume elements and components, and the clear geometry of its basic architecture. High-class appeal, quality workmanship and exceptional touch and feel are a treat for the passengers' senses, so that the car's interior represents the highest level of "modern luxury".

The S-Class Coupé's dashboard fascinates with its architecture, giving rise to a vehicle of unique character in the upper coupé segment. This was made possible by repositioning the airbag to a completely new, low location. This concept enables the large, two-part wide-screen format TFT display to be placed in a prominent "hovering" position in front of this trim surface. Under the display, the sportily elevated centre console extends to the vehicle rear. All lids and armrests are covered in leather. The interior of the S-Class Coupé is luxurious and comfortable. For example, the AIR-BALANCE package including the components "fragrancing" and "ionisation" plus additional air cleaning by means of activated charcoal filter is available, as is electric armrest heating as a component of the Warmth Comfort package. If the vehicle is equipped with the optional Seat Comfort package, the front seats feature the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle.

Extremely low wind noise was a declared goal in the development of the S-Class Coupé. As early as the design phase, the aeroacoustic engineers were at work optimising the shape. Furthermore, the body shell and door sealing concept were configured to reduce wind noise. It succeeded: the S-Class Coupé is the world's quietest series-production car in terms of wind noise.

The S 500 Coupé is powered by a twin-turbo V8 engine with a displacement of 4663 cc, has a rated output of 335 kW (455 hp) and a peak torque of 700 Nm. The sporty motoring experience is significantly enhanced by the emotional sound produced by the exhaust system.

The S 63 AMG Coupé is the latest dream car to augment the Mercedes-AMG model range: exciting lines underpin this two-door model's design. Dominance and sensuous purity combine to lend the vehicle an irresistible presence and effortlessly superior sportiness. Equally impressive is the combination of high driving dynamics, ambitious lightweight construction and ground-breaking efficiency.

As the most powerful member of the BlueDIRECT engine family, the AMG 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is a paragon of poise and assurance. Boasting an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and 900 Nm of torque, the S 63 AMG Coupé delivers exceptional performance combined with remarkably low fuel consumption. The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is available as an option. And there is a world first in the shape of the curve tilting function with the MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system to further enhance both driving pleasure and comfort.

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

With the V-Class, Mercedes-Benz has redefined the MPV. It combines room for eight people and exemplary functionality with the hallmark strengths of Mercedes-Benz cars – from value appeal and comfort to efficient driving pleasure and safety. With the V 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz will start offering the new V-Class with permanent all-wheel drive from December. Other all-wheel drive models will follow. The new four-wheel drive V-Class improves starting off and accelerating, especially on loose ground, in trailer operations, and in inclement weather conditions.

Thanks to the compact design of the all-wheel drive system, the new V-Class with 4MATIC is the same height as the rear-wheel drive V-Class. This results in a low centre of gravity, favourable aerodynamics, and driving dynamics on a high level. In combination with the powerful and at the same time economical engine, the new V 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC consequently delivers efficient driving pleasure: the four-cylinder common-rail diesel engine produces an output of 140 kW (190 hp) and a peak torque of 440 Nm while consuming just 6.6 l per 100 km (174 g CO₂/km). Thanks to BlueTEC, the V 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is also the first vehicle in the segment with permanent all-wheel drive to comply with EU 6 emissions standards. The power is transferred by a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with integrated transfer case.

The data of the all-wheel drive versions at a glance:

The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system celebrated its world première at the Frankfurt/Main International Motor Show in 1985. One year later, Mercedes-Benz presented the innovation in the then current E-Class of the 124 model series. Delivery of the first models began in spring of 1987.

Besides the complex control electronics, the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system consisted of a complete additional front-wheel drive system with transfer case and differential, the latter of which was integrated into the oil pan due to space restrictions.

This all-wheel drive system was available for the six-cylinder models. The considerable technical complexity of this perfected drive system was reflected in the sales price: in 1987, the 260 E 4MATIC, 300 E 4MATIC, 300 TE 4MATIC, 300 D 4MATIC and 300 TD Turbo 4MATIC models demanded a price premium over their rear-wheel drive counterparts of more than 6100 Euros in today's money.

Like any other all-wheel drive system, the 4MATIC versions have to abide by the laws of driving physics. The fundamental rule is that a tyre is only able to transfer a certain level of overall force to the road surface. If a particularly high degree of longitudinal force is required during acceleration or braking, for example, the available lateral force is reduced. When cornering, the reverse applies: now a large amount of lateral force is required to keep the vehicle on course, while the longitudinal force potential is restricted. The engineers' skill in designing the drive mechanism and fine-tuning the control systems lies in their ability to exploit these correlations in such a way as to ensure the best possible handling characteristics under all conditions. The frictional coefficient µ describes the physical grip between the tyres and the ground. This figure is high on a dry road (µ = 0.9) and low on a snow-covered road (µ = 0.3).

Despite all the engineers' efforts, ultimately it is the drivers themselves who determine how safe they are out on the road. They should always adapt their driving style to the prevailing wintry conditions and ensure that their vehicle is suitably equipped. Winter tyres are absolutely essential in this regard.