Driver’s Assistance Package
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2022
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
2008 ML350
Driver’s Assistance Package
Hi there everyone,
We are planning on putting in an order for my grandma (whom is in her 70’s) on a w206. The family and I was debating on whether on not we should option the enhanced drivers assistance package for her. She mainly drives around town so we were wondering if anyone has had experience or see a need for this package around town. We did see that there was a few features that would prove to be useful around town. Was wondering everyone’s thoughts. Thank you!!
We are planning on putting in an order for my grandma (whom is in her 70’s) on a w206. The family and I was debating on whether on not we should option the enhanced drivers assistance package for her. She mainly drives around town so we were wondering if anyone has had experience or see a need for this package around town. We did see that there was a few features that would prove to be useful around town. Was wondering everyone’s thoughts. Thank you!!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 1,525
Likes: 510
From: Westchester, NY
2014 Mercedes E350 4matic Wagon, 2018 Fiat 124 Spyder Lusso manual, 2005 Acura TSX manual
For someone aging, I always recommend maximum safety features. The convenience aspect of adaptive cruise control is most useful on the highway but I think the more safety minded features (evasion aide, cross traffic braking), etc. are pretty usable in city driving too.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 19
Likes: 3
From: Switzerland
S206 220d AMG line
I would not recommend the advanced driver assistance systems for somebody who is not technologically minded. They are more likely to confuse than help. For example Distrionic on my S206 works with Speed Limit Assist, but this can sometimes result in the car accelerating or slowing if it reads a speed limit sign incorrectly. This can confuse somebody if the don't understand what is happening or why it's happening. I would stick with the basic assistance systems such as brake assist, lane keeping assist, parking sensors etc. Choose the assistance systems wisely based on who will be using them. Of course as the 206 has User profiles these can be optioned but switched on or off depending on who is using the car based on which user profile is selected. I think for an older driver who is not choosing the vehicle themselves an older Mercedes with less technology would be more suitable. Only my opinion of course.
Member
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 111
Likes: 16
From: NY
2026 CLE 300
100% agree. The Distronic driver assist will be no help at all and can even add confusion for someone not tech. minded. Had it on my A220 and never used it other than trying out. Much more trouble than it's worth. Skip it entirely.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 19
Likes: 3
From: Switzerland
S206 220d AMG line
I think for a technophile like myself the advanced driving package that steers the car and changes lanes itself etc. works well in association with Distrionic. 99% of the time it's great, you just need to be prepared for the 1% of the time when it does something unexpected. Knowing and understanding that these systems have limitations and are not perfect means I am prepared when something strange or unusual happens. This isn't the case with everyone and the 1% could potentially cause an accident.
