Mercedes-Benz All-Wheel Drive: Engineered for Peak Performance Everywhere
Mercedes-Benz proudly presents a variety of all-wheel-drive vehicles at this year’s press event in Öztal, Austria – highlighting once again the capabilities of its vehicles in challenging alpine conditions. From passenger cars to vans, the extensive range demonstrates the brand’s commitment to superior engineering and luxury.
The details of the all-wheel drive system and the distribution of power between the front and rear axles vary across models, but the core benefits of 4MATIC remain consistent: improved driving stability, enhanced safety and heightened dynamics across a variety of conditions. Improved traction not only pays off in the high mountains and on snow-covered roads, but it also proves advantageous in variety of other driving situations.
High efficiency has been a key goal in further development of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The modern, electronically controlled 4MATIC system is lighter than previous systems, integrated with an intelligent operating strategy, and compatible with hybrid and electric drivetrains.
Over 120 years of all-wheel drive tradition at Mercedes-Benz
The history of Mercedes-Benz vehicles with all-wheel drive dates back to the early 20th century. Paul Daimler, then technical director of the Austrian Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft in Wiener Neustadt, “laid the foundations for four-wheel drive design in 1903 […],” as the Illustrierte Zeitung later wrote in 1917. After the first all-wheel drive vehicles for the Austrian and Prussian military from 1905 to 1907, Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft built the “Dernburg-Wagen” in 1907, the world’s first passenger car to feature all-wheel drive and steering, delivered to German South West Africa in 1908. Benz & Cie. also produced various all-wheel drive prototypes during this period. The VRL off-road vehicle, which was only built as a one-off around 1920, was the first market-ready Benz automobile with four-wheel drive.
Mercedes-Benz introduced the all-wheel drive system for the first time in 1985 with the name 4MATIC. Since then, the system has been continuously refined to meet the highest standards of traction, safety and driving dynamics, while being adapted to different vehicle classes and modern drive technologies.
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE: Electrified Performance
- An emotional experience: performance hybrid from Mercedes-AMG with fully variable all-wheel drive
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE exemplifies state-of-the-art technology derived directly from Formula 1™. The hybrid powertrain combines the 469-hp Handcrafted AMG 2.0-liter turbocharged engine – the most powerful series production four-cylinder in the world – with an Electric Drive Unit (EDU) on the rear axle, delivering a very emotional driving experience. The advanced powertrain achieves a combined system output of 671 hp and combined system torque of 752 lb.-ft.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive transfers power seamlessly to the road, dynamically shifting from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive and vice versa as needed, as the intelligent control is integrated into the entire vehicle system architecture. An electromechanically controlled clutch variably connects the permanently driven rear axle with the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is continuously calculated depending on the driving situation and driver demand. Continuously variable power distribution from pure rear-wheel drive to 50:50 between the front and rear axles is possible.
During moderate driving, the front axle can be completely decoupled to enhance efficiency. For a more dynamic experience, the SPORT ESP® setting ensures rear-biased handling, while Drift Mode enables rear-wheel drive across the entire speed range.
The 203 hp electric motor provides precise power and torque depending on the driving situation and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program selected for either a comfortable or performance-oriented driving experience.
The hybrid system offers further advantages for driving dynamics control. Instead of relying solely on ESP® braking interventions, the electric motor can also regulate traction directly. If wheel slip occurs at the rear axle, the intelligent control system reduces the drive torque of the electric motor and transfers it to the wheel via the electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. The differential integrated into the compact EDU works with a fully variable locking effect during both acceleration and deceleration. It is perfectly matched to all road surfaces and communicates permanently with the other control units relevant to driving dynamics thanks to its full integration into the system architecture.
Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID: A Blend of Performance and Efficiency
- Typical AMG driving pleasure with the Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID
The E-Class has been one of most popular models from Mercedes-AMG for decades. The AMG E 53 HYBRID continues this legacy with engaging driving dynamics, outstanding performance and sporty design. As a plug-in hybrid, the E 53 HYBRID combines performance with efficiency and offers an all-electric range of up to 42 miles2, according to EPA certification.
The proven AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine forms the basis for the sporty, efficient drive, delivering 443 hp. This represents an increase of 14 hp compared to the previous generation model and is the result of numerous software and hardware enhancements, including a new twin-scroll turbocharger with higher boost pressure.
The AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine and permanently excited synchronous electric motor generate a combined system output of 577 hp (604 hp with optional RACE START) and a combined system torque of 553 lb-ft. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes place in 3.7 seconds (with optional RACE START). The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (174 mph with optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package), and pure electric driving is possible up to 87 mph. The AMG E 53 HYBRID is equipped standard with an onboard 9.6-kW AC charger as well as a 60-kW DC fast charger, which enables charging of the battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 20 minutes.
Standard AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive provides optimal traction in all conditions. An electromechanically controlled clutch distributes torque variably to the front and rear axles in each AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program to deliver maximum traction, driving dynamics and safety. This enables continuously variable power distribution from pure rear-wheel drive up to 50:50 between the front and rear axles.
S-Class: Comfort and Dynamics Combined with Traction
- Fourth generation of the hybrid drive with 47 miles of electric range, according to EPA certification (MY2025), and 4MATIC all-wheel drive
Model Year 2025 brings enhancements to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with expanded personalization options. New offering logic enables customers to select the optional AMG Line package in combination with the standard Luxury Trim or optional Pinnacle Trim. Customers can also choose from more than 20 paint colors, including new Verde Silver Metallic and Sonoran Brown Metallic.
The fourth generation of the hybrid drive celebrated its premiere in the current S-Class. With the S 580e 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz also combined a plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive for the first time in this segment. The 4MATIC technology comprises a further developed front-axle transmission, which has been optimized in terms of weight and friction compared to the previous model series. The torque distribution is 45 percent to the front axle and 55 percent to the rear axle.
With an electric drive output of 148 hp and an all-electric range of 47 miles according to EPA certification (MY2025)3, the S 580e 4MATIC can be driven without the use of the combustion engine in most daily commutes. The hybrid powertrain is based on the 362-hp M 256 inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine. The high power density of the hybrid drive is also achieved here with the aid of a permanently excited internal rotor synchronous motor to deliver a combined system output of 510 hp and 553 lb.-ft of combined system torque.
The maximum torque of the electric motor (325 lb-ft) is immediately available and ensures high agility when starting off and during dynamic driving. The maximum speed in the ELECTRIC drive program is 87 mph, after which the top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph. An onboard 9.6-kW AC charger and 60-kW DC charger are included standard. With the 60 kW DC charger, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes.
Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE: Perfect synthesis of comfort and dynamics
The Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE with AMG performance hybrid technology once again sets the benchmark in the segment. The E PERFORMANCE model combines a Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with an AMG-specific hybrid powertrain and a new expansion stage of the AMG high-performance battery (HPB). The new HPB 150 is based on the high-performance and directly cooled battery cells of the well-known HPB 80. The battery capacity increases from 6.1 kWh in the HPB 80 to 13.1 kWh in the HPB 150.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive combines the advantages of different drive concepts. Fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles ensures optimum traction and high driving stability. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa takes place continuously on the basis of a sophisticated matrix that integrates the intelligent control into the entire vehicle systems architecture. An electromechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver input. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
With a combined system output of 791 hp and 1,055 lb.-ft of combined system torque4, the performance hybrid delivers outstanding performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and an optional elevated top speed of 180 mph underscore the impressive driving dynamics. Standard AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL active roll stabilization and active rear-axle steering ensure a widespread between comfort and highly dynamic.
G-Class: The Off-Road Icons of the Next Era
- Legendary design language meets uncompromising off-road capability
- G 580 with virtual differential locks and exclusive off-road functions
- Mercedes-AMG G 63: A new look for the high-performance G-Class
With the G 580 with EQ Technology, Mercedes-Benz presented the first fully electric model of its off-road icon this spring. The new electric G-Class remains true to the character of the model series and sets off-road standards. The four individually controlled electric motors located near the wheels develop a combined output of 579 hp. Together with the selectable LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction, these enable unique driving characteristics and exclusive functions. This allows the G-TURN to rotate the vehicle on the spot on loose or unpaved surfaces. The G-STEERING function can deliver a significantly smaller turning circle when driving off-road. The intelligent off-road crawl function with three available settings supports off-road driving by maintaining optimum propulsion, allowing the driver to focus on navigating difficult terrain.
The LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction increases torque at the wheels during off-road driving. Off-road capability is further elevated with virtual differential locks through intelligent torque vectoring. G-ROAR brings a unique sound experience to the electric G-Class with an exclusive driving sound, an “aura” sound and a variety of “event” sounds.
With its angular silhouette, the new electric G-Class is instantly recognizable. An optional black panel radiator grille, exclusive to the G 580 with EQ Technology, is available for an even more a striking look. In addition, a slightly raised hood and air curtains in the rear wheel-arch extensions, as well as a design box at the rear are among the distinguishing features of the all-electric variant. In combination with new A-pillar trim and a spoiler lip on the roof, these contribute to optimized aerodynamics.
As with the conventionally powered G-Class models, the body is based on a ladder frame design. The development team has modified and reinforced this to integrate the electric drive. The combination of independent suspension with double wishbones at the front and newly developed solid axle at the rear has also been retained. The high-voltage lithium-ion battery is integrated into the ladder frame to ensure a low center of gravity. With a usable capacity of 116 kWh, it enables 239 miles of all-electric range, according to EPA certification5.
Drivers can access the new OFFROAD COCKPIT directly via the off-road control center. An overview of the most relevant information for off-road driving as well as functions to support off-road driving are shown on the driver and multimedia displays. Content is displayed in various tiles, which can be changed using the direction arrows or swiping. There are also buttons for quick access to certain vehicle functions and information for off-road driving. These include the artificial horizon, compass, altitude, steering angle, torque, as well as tire pressure and temperature. In conjunction with the Surround View 360-degree camera, the “Transparent Hood” function provides a virtual view of under the front of the vehicle to enable the driver to better recognize obstacles in the vehicle’s path. This function also helps drivers to properly assess crests, embankments and hollows that may no longer be visible through the windshield when traversing steep terrain. The “Transparent Hood” can be conveniently activated via a button on the off-road control center or via the off-road menu in the central multimedia display.
The Mercedes-AMG G 63: A New Look for the High-Performance G-Class
The new Mercedes-AMG G 63 underpins its unique position among performance off-road vehicles with its powerful drivetrain, newly developed AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension and AMG‑specific drive programs. Powered by a 577-hp Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine, the AMG G 63 offers exceptional performance on- and off-road. Rear-biased all-wheel drive with three differential locks, an extremely fast-shifting AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission, double-wishbone independent front suspension and adaptive adjustable damping form the basis for the driving experience. The unmistakable design makes a strong statement with an AMG-specific radiator grille, flared wheel arches, distinctive side pipes of the exhaust system and up to 22-inch wheels.
Standard AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive is characterized by a rear-biased torque distribution of 40 percent to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle. This layout ensures increased agility on road and improved traction during acceleration.
The standard LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction has been further developed for even more rugged terrain. The gear reduction ratio of the transfer case is now 2.93:1, which is significantly shorter than in the previous model (2:1). This significantly increases torque at the wheels during off-road driving. The off-road gear reduction can be engaged with the transmission in neutral via the LOW RANGE button, at speeds up to 25 mph. The transfer case features a 1.00:1 ratio in the HIGH RANGE for road driving. It is possible to shift from LOW RANGE to HIGH RANGE at speeds up to 44 mph.
When the driver activates the center differential lock, the multi-plate clutch switches to a 100 percent locking effect. The locks on the front and rear differentials are designed with a dog clutch and 100 percent locking effect. All locks can be engaged individually while driving in both LOW RANGE and HIGH RANGE – first the center differential, then the rear differential and finally the front differential. The differential locks now react even faster at the push of a button because these operate electromechanically and are fully networked.
Two additional off-road drive modes are available as part of the optional AMG Offroad Package PRO. “AMG Traction PRO” generates maximum traction in the “Rock” and “Sand” drive programs by means of wheel-selective braking torque control depending on the driving surface. In addition, the degree of locking of the electronically controlled differential locks can be adjusted in stages depending on the situation. In order to activate “AMG Traction PRO,” drivers must first select the LOW RANGE off-road gear reduction and activate manual shifting of the transmission.
“AMG Active Balance Control,” the second additional off-road drive mode, supplements the functions of the available AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension in all three off-road drive programs. This allows the roll stiffness of the vehicle to be adjusted from low to rigid depending on the road surface and driving situation. Drivers can choose from three different settings. While “LOW” provides a comfortable suspension setup, it is significantly stiffer in “MID” and very stiff in “HIGH.” This significantly improves the vehicle’s body control, contact with the driving surface as well as traction off-road.
AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive adjustable damping is fitted standard on the new AMG G 63. This fully automatic, electronically controlled system continuously adjusts the damping at each wheel to the current driving situation and road conditions. This improves driving safety and ride comfort. The damping on each wheel is adjusted individually via separate valves for rebound and compression in each damper. Three distinct damper maps can be selected (“Comfort,” “Sport” or “Sport+”) with a noticeable differentiation between ride comfort and dynamic driving characteristics.
Mercedes-Benz Vans: Reliable and Versatile Partners for Business and Leisure
- Mercedes-Benz Vans: Suitable companions for every application and any terrain
- Sprinter: The all-rounder with its torque-on-demand system
As a successful and fully integrated division of Mercedes-Benz AG, Mercedes-Benz Vans is the founder of the light-commercial-vehicle segment, which bridges the gap between cars and trucks for customers. Mercedes‑Benz Vans created the “Sprinter” segment around 30 years ago – and the Sprinter is still the flagship of the portfolio today. The range extends from courier, express and parcel vehicles (CEP) with basic equipment through emergency and rescue vehicles to the highly profitable motorhome segment. Thanks to all-wheel drive variants, the areas of application are even more diverse.
The Sprinter: The all-rounder with its torque-on-demand system
Mercedes-Benz Vans introduced the first Sprinter on the market almost 30 years ago. A new edition of the all-rounder was launched yet again with model year 2025 – even safer, smarter, more interactive and just as versatile as before. Its particular adaptability to customer and industry-specific requirements is key to success – over 75 percent of commercial Sprinters sold are expanded and converted into industry-specific vans by upfitters. The Sprinter enjoys great popularity as a base vehicle for RVs: In conjunction with all-wheel drive option, journeys can also be mastered confidently off-road or on slippery surfaces.
At the heart of the all-wheel drive system – which is available for the Sprinter chassis, cargo and passenger vans in various lengths and heights and gross vehicle weight ratings from 4.1 – 5.5 tons – is the torque-on-demand system with an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch integrated into the transfer case. This variably distributes the drive torque between the front and rear axles as required. It also impresses with particularly low-noise operation.
The Sprinter with all-wheel drive is available with a powerful yet efficient OM 654 turbodiesel and delivering 155kW (208 hp). The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with its two-stage turbocharger, produces a torque of up to 332 lb.-ft. In the Sprinter AWD, Mercedes-Benz also combines all-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC transmission. The automatic torque converter is characterized by reduced weight, minimal space requirements and strong pulling power.
The new 2025 Sprinter offers a significant increase in safety, comfort and digital networking, while still offering a high degree of flexibility. The optional intelligent multimedia system MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) includes a 10.25-inch touch display and instrument cluster with color display. Both screens can be operated intuitively via touch control panels on the new multi-function steering wheel. The high-tech steering wheel has capacitive sensors like a smartphone. This allows it to detect whether hands are gripping the steering wheel (hands-off detection). Another practical comfort feature is the optional storage for smartphones including wireless charging.
The safety and assistance systems6 in the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are equipped with additional, and in some cases new or further developed functions. Most of them are already on board as standard equipment. For example, the standard Active Brake Assist now includes the intersection function and can therefore also warn of vertically crossing or oncoming vehicles even at speeds of up to 37 miles per hour and of dangerous overtaking maneuvers at speeds of up to 43 miles per hour, as well as intervene in an emergency at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and assist with turning if a collision with another vehicle is imminent. In addition, Active Brake Assist provides support at higher speeds.
Mercedes-Benz USA has comprehensively upgraded the standard equipment for the new Sprinter and tailored the offer logic for the equipment packages even more precisely to the specific wishes of customers. Functional equipment, which is already often purchased together, is now increasingly bundled in packages. For both models, for example, there is a choice of the Winter Package PLUS (e. g. with heated front seats, heated steering wheel and wet wiper system) and the Drive Assist Package (e. g. with various driver assist systems and 360 degree camera).
Among other things, the standard equipment of the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter now features the new multifunction steering wheel with capacitive sensors, tire pressure monitoring (front/rear) for dual rear wheel models, rain sensor, entry handles on the front doors and passive child detection in the crew or passenger models. Customers of the Sprinter passenger models can choose a SELECT line with leather steering wheel, a comfort seat for the driver, the comfort overhead control unit and LED high-performance headlights including Adaptive Highbeam Assist.
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