DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control helps the driver to maintain a specified (timed) distance from the vehicle in front when travelling at speeds of 0 to 200 km/h.

When parking or looking for a parking space, the driver can call on the assistance of the optional Active Parking Assist, including PARKTRONIC. The system uses ultrasound sensors to determine whether the length of a parking space is adequate. The driver initiates the parking manoeuvre by placing the vehicle in front of the parking space, engaging reverse and confirming the process with the instrument cluster. The Active Parking Assist system takes charge of the parking manoeuvre in the chosen parking space by means of steering motors (acting at speeds below 10 km/h). All the driver needs to do is operate accelerator and brake pedals.

The ATTENTION ASSIST function is particularly helpful on long journeys and when driving at night; the system warns the driver if it detects signs of failing attention and increasing weariness.

Between 80 and 180 km/h, ATTENTION ASSIST warns the driver visually and audibly as soon as it detects any signs of drowsiness or inattention. The background: sensors analyse driving behaviour and can detect any changes compared with the previously determined individual driver profile.

The BAS PLUS braking assistance system can help reduce the stopping distance in an emergency situation. The PRE-SAFE® brake can warn the driver if the radar detects the danger of a collision, and if a collision cannot be avoided, can mitigate its intensity.

Around 2.6 seconds before the registered possible rear-end collision it emits a visual and acoustic warning, circa 1.6 seconds before the impending impact it initiates a braking manoeuvre if the driver has not reacted to the warnings. Then about 0.6 seconds before an impact it recognises as unavoidable it causes an autonomous full brake application if the driver has not reacted yet.

Using an integrated camera, the Speed Limit Assist system (available only in conjunction with Audio 50 APS or COMAND Online) can identify road signs and show the permitted maximum speed on the central display. This can reduce the danger of overlooking a speed limit, particularly on stretches of road with frequently changing traffic signs or along routes with road works. In order to verify the data retrieved via optical sensors and the following display, the system compares the values registered with the digital road maps of the navigation system.

Night View Assist Plus improves visibility in the dark without making use of the main-beam headlamps.

A camera scans the road illuminated by an anti-dazzle infrared headlamp and transmits a grey-scale image to the multifunction display. This helps the driver to identify obstacles, insufficiently lit road users and the course of unlit roads more effectively and at an earlier stage.

In addition, pedestrians identified by the system can be highlighted and seen more clearly thanks to the pedestrian recognition function.

The rear-view camera (only available in conjunction with COMAND Online) offers convenience and added safety. Integrated in the boot lid, the camera transmits an image of the area behind the vehicle to the COMAND screen. The camera image not only makes parking easier but also aids in manoeuvring on difficult terrain.