One of the best ways to see New Zealand is by road. Whether it’s a weekend getaway outside the city or a multi-stop exploration of our country’s many attractions, covering great distances is usually required. If you are planning your next road trip and in need of a little inspiration, check out some of the destinations we’ve explored recently. 

When embarking on longer journeys, most of us prioritise two things in our vehicle: safety and comfort. Here, we detail some of the standout features that make Mercedes-Benz vehicles the ideal companions on the open road – and highlight some of the best road-trip cars currently in our lineup.

AIRSCARF: open-top comfort 

For those who prefer driving with the wind in their hair, the new Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet is a great road-trip car thanks to the innovative AIRSCARF system. This clever feature extends the open-top driving season by providing a virtual scarf of warm air around the neck and shoulders of front-seat occupants.

AIRSCARF blows warm air through vents integrated into the headrests to keep you comfortable even when the ambient temperature drops. That way, you can enjoy the thrill of top-down driving on crisp mornings or cool evenings without sacrificing comfort.

Augmented Reality Navigation: always stay on track

Understanding where you’re going and what obstacles may confront you on the road is a key challenge on any getaway. One of the most impressive features offered in the Mercedes-Benz range is the Augmented Reality Navigation system. This clever technology, which is standard in vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV, Mercedes-Benz EQA SUV, and Mercedes-Benz EQB SUV, transforms how drivers interact with navigation information.

The system works by superimposing graphic navigation instructions and real-time traffic information directly onto live camera images of the road ahead. This essential information is then displayed on the vehicle's central infotainment screen, creating an intuitive and immersive navigation experience. This means less time squinting at maps or struggling to understand audio directions, and more time enjoying the drive.

Imagine, for instance, that you’re approaching a complex intersection in an unfamiliar city, and you’re unsure which lane you need to be in or exit to take. Clear guidance is at hand as the Augmented Reality system clearly highlights the correct path with virtual directional arrows overlaid on the actual road – eliminating that stressful moment while also allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road.

ENERGIZING Comfort Package: keeping you refreshed

Long drives on New Zealand roads can be taxing on both body and mind. The innovative ENERGIZING Comfort Package is designed to boost comfort and energy levels during extended trips.

In the GLE SUV and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, for example, the ENERGIZING Comfort Package takes relaxation to new heights with an advanced massage function that delivers a ‘hot stone' massage while you’re cruising down the highway. It can also simultaneously manage the cabin’s climate control, ambient lighting and audio settings, helping travellers arrive at their destination feeling refreshed rather than fatigued.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan also offers motion sickness support as part of the ENERGIZING Comfort package. This feature uses a combination of specific seat adjustments, temperature controls and ambient lighting settings to help alleviate symptoms of car sickness on winding roads or long journeys.

Panoramic sunroof: views from every angle

Available in the GLE, EQA and EQB SUVs, as well as the E-Class and Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan, a panoramic sliding sunroof creates an open, airy feel inside the cabin. For driver and passengers on long road trips, it makes amazing views of city skylines, mountain ranges and star-filled night skies possible – great for restless kids or anyone who gets cabin fever on longer journeys. 

DIGITAL LIGHT: lighting the way

Our DIGITAL LIGHT feature, available in models such as the CLE Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan, and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV and Sedan, represents a significant leap forward in headlight technology. The system uses a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp. The result? Extraordinary precision in light distribution.

DIGITAL LIGHT adapts intelligently to current light conditions, weather and traffic situations. For road trippers, this means enhanced safety during night driving, especially on unfamiliar roads. The system can warn of unexpected obstacles and assist in narrow lanes, reducing driver stress and fatigue.

Active Steering Assist: your co-pilot on long drives

One of the biggest challenges on road trips is that driving long stretches can become monotonous and tiring. Our Active Steering Assist is designed to reduce driver fatigue and help improve the safety of everyone on board by keeping the vehicle centred in its lane through moderate steering interventions.

When activated, the system uses cameras and radar sensors to detect lane markings and vehicles ahead, making subtle adjustments to keep the car perfectly positioned. If it detects that the driver hasn't steered for a while or has removed their hands from the wheel, it issues a series of escalating warnings. In the event of no response, it can even initiate an emergency stop – a crucial safety feature for those extended driving sessions.

Burmester Surround Sound System: the ultimate sound experience

No road trip is complete without a great soundtrack, and your music can sound its absolute best with the Burmester surround sound system featuring Dolby Atmos. Optionally available in models like the E-Class Sedan, EQE SUV and EQS SUV, this system transforms your vehicle into a mobile concert hall.

Dolby Atmos technology creates a three-dimensional sound stage, allowing you to hear every nuance of your favourite tracks with amazing clarity and depth. Whether you're cruising through the desert with classic rock or winding through mountain roads accompanied by classical symphonies, the Burmester system ensures an immersive audio experience that helps the kilometres pass by.

Check out Mercedes-Benz New Zealand’s official playlist to find your best road-trip music.

Mercedes me Charge: powering your electric adventure

For those embracing the future with an all-electric Mercedes-Benz, the Mercedes me Charge service ensures that range anxiety doesn't curtail your road trip plans. 

The system is integrated with the vehicle's navigation, allowing for intelligent route planning and factoring in charging stops. This means you can embark on long journeys with confidence, knowing that your route has been optimised for your needs.

Comprehensive roadside assistance: peace of mind 

It’s comforting to know that help is always at hand should the unexpected happen, particularly during long trips. The comprehensive Mercedes-Benz Breakdown Assistance program provides peace of mind on any journey.

All Mercedes-Benz vehicles come equipped with either run-flat tyres, a TIREFIT kit, or a spare emergency wheel, ensuring you're prepared for unexpected tyre issues. If you need an extra helping hand, our Roadside and Accident Assistance line is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and covers a wide range of potential problems – from flat batteries and lost keys to more serious issues requiring towing. It even extends to caravan or trailer assistance, making it an invaluable resource for those embarking on more adventurous road trips.

From Augmented Reality Navigation guiding you through unfamiliar terrain to the ENERGIZING Comfort Package keeping you refreshed on long drives, every aspect of your journey has been considered in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. These innovative features promise to take your road-trip experience to new heights.

Explore the Mercedes-Benz range today