Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to the wheel, the chance to get to know your favourite Mercedes-Benz vehicle and hone your driving skills on a top-tier racetrack is a pretty irresistible prospect. 

This is precisely what awaits participants at a Mercedes-Benz Driving Event, a unique program designed to elevate driving ability, showcase state-of-the-art automotive technology, and deliver an unforgettable experience with some of the world's finest vehicles. 

Spoiled for choice 

The day began with a briefing at Hampton Downs before the excitement began on the track. The first exercise was dedicated to ‘Drive the Range’, where participants selected their favourite Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-Benz AMG models and took them for an initial spin around the circuit.

The vehicle lineup showcased some of the latest automotive advancements from Mercedes-Benz. The all new Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE, for example, was a popular track-ready option, thanks to its Formula 1-derived hybrid technology and dynamic handling. With its advanced electric drive unit and high-performance 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine, the AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE delivers an astounding system output of up to 500KW, capable of launching from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. 

Other vehicles up for grabs included the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV, with its powerful electric drivetrain and performance-oriented drive; and on the 4x4 track, the iconic Mercedes-AMG G 63, a vehicle known for its athletic prowess; and the all new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan, a sophisticated and engaging driving companion.

Lessons in safety 

The next exercise was the ‘Safety & Technology’ portion of the day. Anyone can read a list of specifications for a Mercedes-Benz vehicle and marvel at the array of driver assist safety features – but learning how they work in real time is another matter entirely.

The event provided hands-on experience with some of our most advanced safety and assistance systems. Participants had the opportunity to practise emergency breaking scenarios, experience the difference between driving with ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on and off, and discover techniques to become better, safe drivers on public roads.

One particularly educational exercise was a ‘break and swerve’ manoeuvre participants got to perform on the circuit. Under the watchful eyes of professional instructors, they were taught how to react to obstacles that suddenly entered their path, simultaneously breaking and steering to avoid a collision. It was a practical application of the safety technologies, highlighting how drivers’ skills work in tandem with our assistance systems to create a safer environment on the road.

Race-car experience

One of the day’s highlights was getting to drive the Mercedes-Benz C 350e and the Mercedes-AMG A 45 on the skid pan – a surface designed to simulate slippery road conditions and the cars’ handling. This session was particularly exhilarating. Drivers learned to engage the vehicles’ drift mode on the specially prepared, low-friction, surface-controlling power slides – maintaining prolonged drifts and experiencing firsthand the precise control and power of the vehicles.

Under the guidance of the professional drivers, participants were introduced to the intricacies of track driving, including racing through corners, baking points and how to extract maximum performance from this automotive tour de force.

When groups met for lunch, it was in a buzz of adrenaline and excited chatter. For many, there were several moments that stood out. The sheer acceleration of the AMG C 63 SE PERFORMANCE left a lasting impression, as did the precise handling of the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 SUV. The safety demonstrations – particularly the ESP exercise – were also a stark reminder of how these often-invisible systems can help protect drivers, passengers, and other road users.