R
Highway level is set.
R
ADS (Adaptive Damping System) adjusts
the comfort damping characteristics to
the current operating and driving condi-
tions.
R
The automatic transmission selects the
automatic drive program for a comforta-
ble and efficient driving style, and the
shift points are optimally adjusted.
R
The differential lock is engaged when
pulling away.
Off-road driving systems
4MATIC (permanent all-wheel drive)
4MATIC ensures that all four wheels are per-
manently driven. Together with ESP
®
and
4ETS, it improves the traction of your vehicle
whenever a drive wheel spins due to insuffi-
cient grip.
G
WARNING
4MATIC cannot reduce the risk of an accident
if you drive too fast.
If a drive wheel spins due to insufficient grip:
R
only depress the accelerator pedal as far as
necessary when pulling away.
R
accelerate less when driving.
R
adapt your driving style to suit road and
traffic conditions.
!
Never tow the vehicle with one axle
raised. This may damage the transfer case.
Damage of this sort is not covered by the
Mercedes-Benz implied warranty. All
wheels must remain either on the ground
or be fully raised. Observe the instructions
for towing the vehicle with all wheels in full
contact with the ground.
i
In wintry driving conditions, the maximum
effect of 4MATIC can only be achieved if
you use winter tyres (M+S tyres), with snow
chains if necessary.
!
Function or performance tests may only
be performed on a 2-axle dynamometer. If
you wish to operate the vehicle on such a
dynamometer, please consult a Mercedes-
Benz Service Centre beforehand. You could
otherwise damage the drive train or the
brake system.
For information about driving off-road, see
(
Y
page 166).
DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation)
Important safety notes
DSR assists you when driving downhill. It
keeps the speed of travel at the speed set on
the on-board computer. The steeper the
downhill gradient, the greater the DSR brak-
ing effect on the vehicle. When driving on flat
stretches of road or on an uphill gradient, the
DSR braking effect is minimal or non-existent.
G
WARNING
DSR is only an aid designed to assist you when
driving downhill. You are responsible for keep-
ing control of the vehicle and for assessing
whether the downhill gradient can be man-
aged.
When activating DSR the vehicle may brake
suddenly due to DSR intervening. This is
dependent on the downhill gradient and the
difference between the current speed and the
speed set. DSR may not always be able to
keep to the set speed, depending on road sur-
face and tyre conditions. You could lose con-
trol of the vehicle and cause an accident.
Select a set speed suitable for the prevailing
conditions and when necessary, apply the
brakes manually.
DSR controls the set speed when it is active
and the automatic transmission is in the D,
R or N position. By accelerating or braking,
you can always drive at a higher or a lower
speed than that set on the on-board com-
puter.
220
Off-road driving systems
Driving
and
pa
rking
