The Best Tool for Winter Driving: 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive
Mountain living means mountain driving, and in winter that can mean serious snow and ice on the roads. Conditions can get dangerous in Colorado this time of year, and you have to be prepared. The average snowfall ranges from 60-100 inches annually and average temperatures in Colorado in the winter are between 16°- 54°F, with colder temperatures the further you go into the mountains. However because this is Colorado the saying, “if you don’t like the weather, wait ten minutes because it’ll change”, applies.
Oftentimes the days quickly warm up, melting the snow. Then when temperatures plummet at night the melted snow refreezes causing even more slippery roads. Colorado, is known for dangerous accumulations of snow and ice on the roadway, combined with roads through foothills, canyons, and mountain passes, can make travel hazardous and deadly.
How to drive in the snow
- Only go out if necessary. Even if you can drive well in bad weather, it’s better to avoid taking unnecessary risks by venturing out.
- Drive slowly and adjust your speed down to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice.
- Drive smoothly by accelerating and decelerating slowly. Every turn of the wheel, push of the brakes, and movement of the throttle must be deliberate, gentle, and gradual. Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight.
- Increase your following distance remember, it takes longer to slow down on icy roads. The increased distance will provide a longer runway for stopping.
- Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
- Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will just make your wheels spin. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.
- Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
Winter travel precautions
- Keep a bundle of cold-weather gear in your car, such as extra food and water, warm clothing, a flashlight, some Hot Hands heat packs, blankets, medications, and a first-aid kit
- Make certain your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread.
- Double check that you have everything you need to change a tire.
- Travel with a fully charged cell phone and communicate with someone where you are going and when you should be back
- Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times.
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
- Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface, such as on ice and snow.
In addition to taking necessary precautions, you need a car that can get around on the ice. When safety is at stake, you can rely on Mercedes-Benz for top performance. Our 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive technology goes above and beyond most manufacturers to deliver a truly redesigned driving experience.
Experience enhanced performance, safety, and comfort built into the very fabric of your vehicle. 4MATIC driving means turning precisely on ice and snow. It means keeping your kids safe on the drive to school. Best of all, it means your driving experience won’t be hampered by icy conditioners, so you can keep enjoying yourself on the road.
What is 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive?
Furthermore, the wheels can spin at different speeds. When you are going around a turn, the wheels on the outside need to spin faster to cover the longer distance. Because the 4MATIC monitors and adjusts the speeds of every wheel individually, you can whip through turns with precision.
Finally, sensors on every wheel adjust to provide you with just the right amount of torque in every direction. This avoids using too much engine power while keeping you gripped to the road.
The 4MATIC system is not just an add-on to your luxury vehicle. It is a fully integrated part of your Mercedes-Benz machine. It works with all of the safety features already present in your car. This insures that you are getting the best out of the luxury and safety features you deserve.
Don’t just consider whether you need AWD: consider a car that will look at each new foot of road as it’s own condition and optimize for the best. Your Mercedes-Benz will work instantaneously to merge all of its technology into the best ride possible. The engine and wheels will change on their own to match any condition. Whether you hit two feet or 200 miles of rough road, your Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC system will keep you feeling in control.
Some Great Cars with 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive
Most newer models Mercedes-Benz vehicles come pre-loaded with 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive. That means you’ll be good to go on Colorado roads as soon as you leave the dealership. This month, we’ve got a slate of fantastic specials for our clients, each one packed with performance and safety features. Lease a new car from us today and start taking advantage of 4MATIC technology. From sleek coupes and sedans to beefy SUVs, you can find your dream car without sacrificing safety and precision.
- 2020 CLA 250 4MATIC
- 2019 E300 4MATIC
- 2019 GLC400 4MATIC
Get Ready for Some Winter Driving
Now that you’re up to speed on 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive technology, get started on your winter bucket list! Equipped with top safety features, you’re ready to tackled Colorado’s treacherous roads and find some fun activities. Check out the state’s best winter sporting events this season, or get in on the fun yourself with Colorado’s best ski trips.
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