magic body control
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AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
I have MBC on a 2015 550. After over 2 years of driving, I still question if its actually beneficial and if so, under what circumstances. I know what the marketing department is putting out, but I swear it doesn't seem to improve dealing w/ pot holes and other road defects that I've driven over w/ other cars. Sure doesn't seem to match what's portrayed in the corporate promo videos. Never thought to determine if it can be de-activated - I'll look and if possible turn it off for a while and be mindful of the difference on a known roads. Anyone else who has MBC should do likewise and comment. $4,600 isn't trivial.
You are really paying for an upgraded suspension over Airmatic.
I would have bought it if it would have been available for 4matic.
Problem IMO was MB's marketing dept eager to hype it.
Last edited by Wolfman; Mar 10, 2017 at 03:29 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
I have MBC on a 2015 550. After over 2 years of driving, I still question if its actually beneficial and if so, under what circumstances. I know what the marketing department is putting out, but I swear it doesn't seem to improve dealing w/ pot holes and other road defects that I've driven over w/ other cars. Sure doesn't seem to match what's portrayed in the corporate promo videos. Never thought to determine if it can be de-activated - I'll look and if possible turn it off for a while and be mindful of the difference on a known roads. Anyone else who has MBC should do likewise and comment. $4,600 isn't trivial.
As far as I can tell, it does nothing for pot holes and the corporate marketing videos don't portray that it does anything for pot holes. If there is a video showing it smooths out pot holes, please show us a link to this video.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 20
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VW 48
I have MBC on my 2015 S550. It is of no value to me. In addition to the observations expressed here, there is the issue of uncertainty. One cannot be certain that this feature will work. Shade, less than perfect light, insufficient road clearance ahead and color variation of the road surface (wet roadway), will interfere with the system operation. As you cannot be certain that the system will work, you better approach any bump assuming it will not work. In other words, although you have paid a bundle for this feature, you better drive like it does not exist.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
I have MBC on my 2015 S550. It is of no value to me. In addition to the observations expressed here, there is the issue of uncertainty. One cannot be certain that this feature will work. Shade, less than perfect light, insufficient road clearance ahead and color variation of the road surface (wet roadway), will interfere with the system operation. As you cannot be certain that the system will work, you better approach any bump assuming it will not work. In other words, although you have paid a bundle for this feature, you better drive like it does not exist.
Good luck!
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,577
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From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
I have MBC on my 2015 S550. It is of no value to me. In addition to the observations expressed here, there is the issue of uncertainty. One cannot be certain that this feature will work. Shade, less than perfect light, insufficient road clearance ahead and color variation of the road surface (wet roadway), will interfere with the system operation. As you cannot be certain that the system will work, you better approach any bump assuming it will not work. In other words, although you have paid a bundle for this feature, you better drive like it does not exist.
I wonder why anyone would buy an option without knowing what it does. How many speed bumps would justify $4k+?
Member
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 79
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From: Florida, USA, Durban, RSA
2006 C180K, 2004 E200K, 1996 Mercedes E320
I have not got MBC on my S550e but I drove an S600 with MBC, Unbelievable ride but not worth the $4000 price tag. Driving long distance you probably won't even notice.
Last edited by w203ck; Mar 12, 2017 at 05:37 AM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
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From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
So, is this worth $4k to do all this? And, another $600.00 to smooth out speed bumps? You have to decide if you want to take an already very nice riding vehicle and make it even nicer...
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,640
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From: NYC
2014 S550
Coming off of three S Classes with ABC (the last with MBC) - I can say the following.
W220 and W221 ABC was brilliant in keeping the car flat in curves, hard acceleration, and braking. No doubt about it. Anyone disputing this is flat out wrong - or just wants to opine without personal experience. From 2001 to 2014 I've driven those 2 models consecutively. If you want a flat ride - the system is perfect. No flaws.
For the W222 and beyond - the Magic Body Control is effectively Active Body Control in Sport Mode, and Magic Body Control in Comfort Mode. You get the full flat feeling from the hydraulics in the sport mode. Flat on curves just like before. When you select COMFORT mode - it is meant to be the glider you are all speaking about. There are some issues with this. The camera must be clean. It must be daylight. Your foot must be on the accelerator the entire time. Take it off - and the glider feature shuts off. Put it in sport - and be prepared for a bang up. Night time? Bang. etc.
When the system works - boy is it cool. When it does not - you are frustrated as hell. In it's current state - its nothing more than a gimmick. It's cool to show your friends "You see that speed bump? Watch and feel this!"
You still feel potholes and road imperfections. It's a fantastic attempt at a first generation technology. They will improve on it I am sure.
The above analysis is my own opinion - and it comes from 16 years of the ABC and MBC combined in my cars. Real world driving - including one from NY to FL and back.
That should matter to those interested in the feature
W220 and W221 ABC was brilliant in keeping the car flat in curves, hard acceleration, and braking. No doubt about it. Anyone disputing this is flat out wrong - or just wants to opine without personal experience. From 2001 to 2014 I've driven those 2 models consecutively. If you want a flat ride - the system is perfect. No flaws.
For the W222 and beyond - the Magic Body Control is effectively Active Body Control in Sport Mode, and Magic Body Control in Comfort Mode. You get the full flat feeling from the hydraulics in the sport mode. Flat on curves just like before. When you select COMFORT mode - it is meant to be the glider you are all speaking about. There are some issues with this. The camera must be clean. It must be daylight. Your foot must be on the accelerator the entire time. Take it off - and the glider feature shuts off. Put it in sport - and be prepared for a bang up. Night time? Bang. etc.
When the system works - boy is it cool. When it does not - you are frustrated as hell. In it's current state - its nothing more than a gimmick. It's cool to show your friends "You see that speed bump? Watch and feel this!"
You still feel potholes and road imperfections. It's a fantastic attempt at a first generation technology. They will improve on it I am sure.
The above analysis is my own opinion - and it comes from 16 years of the ABC and MBC combined in my cars. Real world driving - including one from NY to FL and back.
That should matter to those interested in the feature
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Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,577
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From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
Coming off of three S Classes with ABC (the last with MBC) - I can say the following.
W220 and W221 ABC was brilliant in keeping the car flat in curves, hard acceleration, and braking. No doubt about it. Anyone disputing this is flat out wrong - or just wants to opine without personal experience. From 2001 to 2014 I've driven those 2 models consecutively. If you want a flat ride - the system is perfect. No flaws.
For the W222 and beyond - the Magic Body Control is effectively Active Body Control in Sport Mode, and Magic Body Control in Comfort Mode. You get the full flat feeling from the hydraulics in the sport mode. Flat on curves just like before. When you select COMFORT mode - it is meant to be the glider you are all speaking about. There are some issues with this. The camera must be clean. It must be daylight. Your foot must be on the accelerator the entire time. Take it off - and the glider feature shuts off. Put it in sport - and be prepared for a bang up. Night time? Bang. etc.
When the system works - boy is it cool. When it does not - you are frustrated as hell. In it's current state - its nothing more than a gimmick. It's cool to show your friends "You see that speed bump? Watch and feel this!"
You still feel potholes and road imperfections. It's a fantastic attempt at a first generation technology. They will improve on it I am sure.
The above analysis is my own opinion - and it comes from 16 years of the ABC and MBC combined in my cars. Real world driving - including one from NY to FL and back.
That should matter to those interested in the feature
W220 and W221 ABC was brilliant in keeping the car flat in curves, hard acceleration, and braking. No doubt about it. Anyone disputing this is flat out wrong - or just wants to opine without personal experience. From 2001 to 2014 I've driven those 2 models consecutively. If you want a flat ride - the system is perfect. No flaws.
For the W222 and beyond - the Magic Body Control is effectively Active Body Control in Sport Mode, and Magic Body Control in Comfort Mode. You get the full flat feeling from the hydraulics in the sport mode. Flat on curves just like before. When you select COMFORT mode - it is meant to be the glider you are all speaking about. There are some issues with this. The camera must be clean. It must be daylight. Your foot must be on the accelerator the entire time. Take it off - and the glider feature shuts off. Put it in sport - and be prepared for a bang up. Night time? Bang. etc.
When the system works - boy is it cool. When it does not - you are frustrated as hell. In it's current state - its nothing more than a gimmick. It's cool to show your friends "You see that speed bump? Watch and feel this!"
You still feel potholes and road imperfections. It's a fantastic attempt at a first generation technology. They will improve on it I am sure.
The above analysis is my own opinion - and it comes from 16 years of the ABC and MBC combined in my cars. Real world driving - including one from NY to FL and back.
That should matter to those interested in the feature
Same here. We had ABC in a variety on cars (S,CL, SL) since 2000 and to me it's a no-brainer. It is simply a better suspension.
Is any option worth $4k? That's obviously a personal decision but I take ABC/MBC over the technically obsolete rear seat entertainment or some spoiler, etc. anyday.
In regards to the MBC speed bump function, it's a cheap and gimmicky $600 add-on. Just as gimmicky as the "curve" function on our SL, which leans the car into the curve.
All these options only work in comfort more and I like Sport Mode
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 513
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2023 S Class 2013 SL
ugh, I'm the one who originated this query about MBC. From 33 posts, I've gotten this info:
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
ugh, I'm the one who originated this query about MBC. From 33 posts, I've gotten this info:
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
So, if you have the transmission setting in sport and the suspension setting in comfort, you will have the shift pattern the way you want and the MBC will be on.
And, it definitely does more than just work on speed bumps ( as we have established a few times in this thread ).
Good luck!
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Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,577
Likes: 3,687
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
ugh, I'm the one who originated this query about MBC. From 33 posts, I've gotten this info:
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
1. The upgraded suspension ALWAYS works. That's where the money is
2. The speed bump part only works in Comfort, with good visuals and if you don't step on the brakes.
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,640
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From: NYC
2014 S550
If they want to be truly ideal - the MBC Camera (speed bump and what) should work in both comfort and sport.
The comfort and sport should be JUST for suspension and not be connected to transmission (2nd vs 1st gear start).
In my porsche- I have the PDCC (Dynamic Chasis Control - ABC sorta) - and I can drive it in Sport or Comfort. It is a separate system from the transmission which can be sport, sport plus or normal.
Same for Audi - Dynamic, Comfort, individual, etc.
BMW and Mercedes both tie the suspension with the transmission which I think is a mistake.
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Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 1,493
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2014 S550 AMG, 2017 XT5
ugh, I'm the one who originated this query about MBC. From 33 posts, I've gotten this info:
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
1- it's an upgraded suspension that operates only in comfort mode. And, it does work. However, not in sport mode.
2- the speed bump thing is tenuous at best, if it works.
I'd pay for the option if, it would work in either comfort or sport. Around town, I prefer sport for the first gear acceleration from a stop. This is the majority of my driving. On the highway, I use comfort. Bottom line for now, I'll pass on the option. Thanks to all who responded. Appreciate everyone's thoughts.
Question.... Are you looking at a 4Matic? If so, its a moot point since it is not available with 4Matic....
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
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From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
Though I could swear the car was flatter in sport mode though most definitely NOT rolling much in comfort.
If they want to be truly ideal - the MBC Camera (speed bump and what) should work in both comfort and sport.
The comfort and sport should be JUST for suspension and not be connected to transmission (2nd vs 1st gear start).
In my porsche- I have the PDCC (Dynamic Chasis Control - ABC sorta) - and I can drive it in Sport or Comfort. It is a separate system from the transmission which can be sport, sport plus or normal.
Same for Audi - Dynamic, Comfort, individual, etc.
BMW and Mercedes both tie the suspension with the transmission which I think is a mistake.
If they want to be truly ideal - the MBC Camera (speed bump and what) should work in both comfort and sport.
The comfort and sport should be JUST for suspension and not be connected to transmission (2nd vs 1st gear start).
In my porsche- I have the PDCC (Dynamic Chasis Control - ABC sorta) - and I can drive it in Sport or Comfort. It is a separate system from the transmission which can be sport, sport plus or normal.
Same for Audi - Dynamic, Comfort, individual, etc.
BMW and Mercedes both tie the suspension with the transmission which I think is a mistake.
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Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,577
Likes: 3,687
From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
Though I could swear the car was flatter in sport mode though most definitely NOT rolling much in comfort.
If they want to be truly ideal - the MBC Camera (speed bump and what) should work in both comfort and sport.
The comfort and sport should be JUST for suspension and not be connected to transmission (2nd vs 1st gear start).
In my porsche- I have the PDCC (Dynamic Chasis Control - ABC sorta) - and I can drive it in Sport or Comfort. It is a separate system from the transmission which can be sport, sport plus or normal.
Same for Audi - Dynamic, Comfort, individual, etc.
BMW and Mercedes both tie the suspension with the transmission which I think is a mistake.
If they want to be truly ideal - the MBC Camera (speed bump and what) should work in both comfort and sport.
The comfort and sport should be JUST for suspension and not be connected to transmission (2nd vs 1st gear start).
In my porsche- I have the PDCC (Dynamic Chasis Control - ABC sorta) - and I can drive it in Sport or Comfort. It is a separate system from the transmission which can be sport, sport plus or normal.
Same for Audi - Dynamic, Comfort, individual, etc.
BMW and Mercedes both tie the suspension with the transmission which I think is a mistake.
The MBC "part" is a 1st. gen system that includes a lot of disabling conditions. BMW has already improved on the concept by doing something very similar even on AWD and worse light conditions.
I expect MB to comes out with an updated system for the facelift.
That said, all current S-Class models with Airmatic and MBC have separate buttons for suspension and transmission.
This is a leftover and will go away with the facelift using dynamic drive modes, where each mode controls all aspects (suspension, transmission, throttle response and steering behavior). There is an individual setting that lets you mix and match the settings of your choice.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
Body roll in Sport (suspension) is definitely less. Even Airmatic does that (a little). Airmatic is just a much simpler suspension than ABC.
The MBC "part" is a 1st. gen system that includes a lot of disabling conditions. BMW has already improved on the concept by doing something very similar even on AWD and worse light conditions.
I expect MB to comes out with an updated system for the facelift.
That said, all current S-Class models with Airmatic and MBC have separate buttons for suspension and transmission.
This is a leftover and will go away with the facelift using dynamic drive modes, where each mode controls all aspects (suspension, transmission, throttle response and steering behavior). There is an individual setting that lets you mix and match the settings of your choice.
The MBC "part" is a 1st. gen system that includes a lot of disabling conditions. BMW has already improved on the concept by doing something very similar even on AWD and worse light conditions.
I expect MB to comes out with an updated system for the facelift.
That said, all current S-Class models with Airmatic and MBC have separate buttons for suspension and transmission.
This is a leftover and will go away with the facelift using dynamic drive modes, where each mode controls all aspects (suspension, transmission, throttle response and steering behavior). There is an individual setting that lets you mix and match the settings of your choice.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
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From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
Banned
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,640
Likes: 13
From: NYC
2014 S550
Ummmm, please correct me if I'm wrong...butttt, there are 2 ( two ) buttons on the right of the drivers seat. One changes the setting of the suspension and the other changes the shift patterns. On mine, the one that changes the suspension settings is marked "ABC" in the middle of it. My understanding is that this is only marked on the vehicles with MBC, correct????
I stand completely corrected.
I believe I was thinking about my old W221 which had the button that controlled both the Tranny and Suspension in one. I hope I am not wrong about that.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
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From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
The car is what it is...a big, heavy sedan. Yes, it has a big motor and lots of torque, but it's never gonna come close to being " sporty ". How could it? Physics just takes over at some point, right? Even with its sophisticated suspension.
I am very happy with my purchase. It's a pleasure to drive. Smooth, quiet and comfortable. My 911's had none of those qualities.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 10,577
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From: Land of 10,000 lakes
AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
Funny, after coming from many years of driving 911's, I never even think of putting my 550 in any other mode than comfort. The reason I bought it was for comfort. Growing older, having back issues and driving in heavier traffic were all reasons I bought the 550.
The car is what it is...a big, heavy sedan. Yes, it has a big motor and lots of torque, but it's never gonna come close to being " sporty ". How could it? Physics just takes over at some point, right? Even with its sophisticated suspension.
I am very happy with my purchase. It's a pleasure to drive. Smooth, quiet and comfortable. My 911's had none of those qualities.
The car is what it is...a big, heavy sedan. Yes, it has a big motor and lots of torque, but it's never gonna come close to being " sporty ". How could it? Physics just takes over at some point, right? Even with its sophisticated suspension.
I am very happy with my purchase. It's a pleasure to drive. Smooth, quiet and comfortable. My 911's had none of those qualities.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 3
Likes: 1
From: Northwest Arkansas
2019 S560, 2020 GLE350
Thanks to SocalSteve, Wolfman, & Chucky300
Partly because of what I read in your posts about MBC and ABC, I just purchased a 2015 S550 w/19K CPO in San Antonio. This car is Palladium Silver w/Crystal Grey Nappa, Prem 1, MBC, SurroundView, 19" AMG sport pkg, DriverAsst pkg. I love the car, and the next day drove 630 miles from SA to Northwest Arkansas. This car replaces a 2008 Lexus LS460 that I drove 98K miles with zero issues - I know I am moving away from the most reliable luxury car made but I purchased all ELW possible from Mercedes and will probably buy a non-Mercedes warranty in 2021 before these run out. I LOVE this car, and the driver assistance stuff really works - I drove 75 miles one stretch south of Dallas nonstop with it on and only went manual when the traffic IN Dallas became stop/stop/stop and go. The MBC is great whenever you stop, accelerate, or go around curves - just like you guys said. We have lots of really curvy and up and down roads here in NWA - I can't wait to drive on them alone so I can drive like I'm in a very fast and comfortable Miata. Your info on MBC was perfect for me - we were here for 7 days to visit kids and grandkids and this car popped up (I have been car shopping for 6 mos) and we bought it.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 485
Likes: 74
From: Marina Del Rey, CA
2015 MBZ S 550
Partly because of what I read in your posts about MBC and ABC, I just purchased a 2015 S550 w/19K CPO in San Antonio. This car is Palladium Silver w/Crystal Grey Nappa, Prem 1, MBC, SurroundView, 19" AMG sport pkg, DriverAsst pkg. I love the car, and the next day drove 630 miles from SA to Northwest Arkansas. This car replaces a 2008 Lexus LS460 that I drove 98K miles with zero issues - I know I am moving away from the most reliable luxury car made but I purchased all ELW possible from Mercedes and will probably buy a non-Mercedes warranty in 2021 before these run out. I LOVE this car, and the driver assistance stuff really works - I drove 75 miles one stretch south of Dallas nonstop with it on and only went manual when the traffic IN Dallas became stop/stop/stop and go. The MBC is great whenever you stop, accelerate, or go around curves - just like you guys said. We have lots of really curvy and up and down roads here in NWA - I can't wait to drive on them alone so I can drive like I'm in a very fast and comfortable Miata. Your info on MBC was perfect for me - we were here for 7 days to visit kids and grandkids and this car popped up (I have been car shopping for 6 mos) and we bought it.
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Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 3
Likes: 1
From: Northwest Arkansas
2019 S560, 2020 GLE350
MBC/ABC really shines on curvy hilly highways
Saturday drove S550 to Eureka Springs AR (nickname is Little Switzerland) and back with my wife for shopping,etc. This 45 mile drive includes some of the most scenic and twisty roads around and it was a real blast in this car. My wife is prone to car sickness but the flat cornering, resistance to crosswinds (very windy day), and tight body control led to one of our fastest trips ever with little drama and no carsick feelings. I am still amazed that a 5000 lb luxury car can drive like this. Now I know why the dealer put new Continental MOE tires and brake pads on the front with only 19K miles on the car. 
