Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® All-Wheel Drive: How It Works and Which Models Have It

If you are researching Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, you are in the right place. Below we explain how 4MATIC® works, the benefits on Southern California roads, the difference between 4MATIC® and 4MATIC®+, and which Mercedes-Benz vehicles come standard with 4MATIC®.

New 4MATIC® Inventory
Pre-Owned 4MATIC® Inventory

What is Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC®?

4MATIC® is the fully integrated, intelligent all-wheel drive system engineered by Mercedes-Benz. It continually monitors wheel speed, steering angle, throttle input, and yaw rate to optimize torque delivery to each axle for confident traction and stability in dry, wet, or low-grip conditions.

Actively distributes engine torque front to rear for balanced traction and stability.
Works in concert with Electronic Stability Program and 4-ETS (4-wheel Electronic Traction System) to limit wheel slip and help send power to the wheels with grip.
Designed to be lightweight and efficient so you get all-weather confidence with refined ride quality.

How does 4MATIC® all-wheel drive work?

In normal driving, 4MATIC® maintains a predictive torque split for composed handling. If sensors detect slip, the system can quickly redirect torque across axles while 4-ETS precisely brakes a spinning wheel to help send usable power to the wheel that can use it. The result is confident acceleration and cornering on rain-slicked streets along PCH, wet canyon roads near San Clemente, or sandy trailheads around Lake Elsinore.

4MATIC® vs. 4MATIC®+

4MATIC®+ is the performance-oriented version developed by Mercedes-AMG®. It retains all-weather capability while adding fully variable torque distribution that can bias power toward the rear axle for sharper response and dynamic cornering in AMG® models.

4MATIC®: confidence-inspiring traction and stability for daily driving.
4MATIC®-calibrated system with variable torque distribution for high-performance driving.

What vehicles come standard with 4MATIC®?

Availability can vary by model year and trim. The Mercedes-Benz vehicles below are currently built with 4MATIC® as standard equipment in the U.S. lineup. For real-time availability at Mercedes-Benz of Laguna Niguel, browse our new vehicles or call (949) 347-3700.

Models that come standard with 4MATIC®

E 450 4MATIC® All-Terrain Wagon
GLS 450 4MATIC® SUV
GLS 580 4MATIC® SUV
AMG® GLS 63 4MATIC®+ SUV
G-Class SUV lineup, including G 550 and AMG® G 63
Select Mercedes-AMG® models with 4MATIC®+ as standard equipment
Select electrified and plug-in hybrid trims designated “4MATIC®”

Many other Mercedes-Benz vehicles offer 4MATIC® as an available upgrade. Examples include the GLE 350, GLE 450e, and GLC family, where 4MATIC® can be selected on specific trims. If you prefer the assurance of permanent all-wheel drive, ask our team to show you trims where 4MATIC® is standard.

Key benefits of 4MATIC® for Southern California driving

Added traction in wet weather and on sandy surfaces along coastal routes.
Confident acceleration when merging onto I-5 and SR-73.
Refined handling on winding roads near Ladera Ranch, Dana Point, and Laguna Niguel.

FAQ

How does Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC® all-wheel drive work?

4MATIC® monitors traction and dynamically varies torque to each axle while 4-ETS can brake a slipping wheel to help send power to the wheel with grip. The system integrates with stability and brake control for surefooted performance in changing conditions.

What is Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC®?

It is the Mercedes-Benz intelligent all-wheel drive system designed to enhance traction, stability, and handling on wet, dry, and low-traction surfaces. In AMG® models, 4MATIC®+ adds fully variable torque distribution for maximum performance.

What vehicles come standard with 4MATIC®?

E 450 4MATIC® All-Terrain, GLS 450 4MATIC®, GLS 580 4MATIC® GLS 63 4MATIC®+, and the G-Class lineup. Several Mercedes-AMG® models and specific electrified trims are also 4MATIC® by default. For current availability, shop our new inventory or call (949) 347-3700.