2012 Mercedes-Benz: Unveiling the Standard Features, Packages, and Options

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz model year offered a sophisticated blend of luxury, performance, and safety, continuing the brand’s legacy of automotive excellence. This overview details the standard equipment, optional packages, and standalone features available for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz, providing a comprehensive look at what made this model year a standout.

Standard Equipment

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz came generously equipped with a range of comfort, convenience, performance, and safety features as standard, ensuring a premium driving experience from the base model upwards.

Comfort and Convenience

Inside the cabin, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz prioritized occupant comfort and convenience with a suite of advanced technologies and luxurious appointments:

COMAND System with 40GB Hard-Drive GPS Navigation: Mercedes-Benz’s intuitive COMAND system offered integrated GPS navigation with a substantial 40GB hard drive for map data and multimedia storage.
Bluetooth Interface: Hands-free calling and audio streaming were seamlessly integrated thanks to the standard Bluetooth interface, ensuring connectivity on the go.
Voice Control: Drivers could operate various vehicle functions, including navigation, audio, and telephone, using voice commands, enhancing convenience and safety.
14-Speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System with Dolby Digital 5.1: An audiophile-grade 14-speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7 surround sound system delivered immersive audio with Dolby Digital 5.1 processing, transforming the car into a mobile concert hall.
HD Digital Radio: Enjoy crystal-clear digital radio broadcasts with the integrated HD Digital Radio receiver, offering a wider range of stations and improved sound quality.
In-dash 6-disc DVD/CD Changer: For traditional media, an in-dash 6-disc DVD/CD changer provided versatile entertainment options.
In-dash SD Card Reader: Expanding media playback possibilities, an in-dash SD card reader allowed for easy access to digital music and other media files.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio: Access to a vast array of satellite radio channels was provided by SIRIUS Satellite Radio (subscription required), ensuring entertainment across long journeys.
Power Tilt/Sliding Sunroof with One-Touch Open/Close: A power tilt/sliding sunroof brought natural light and fresh air into the cabin, operable with a convenient one-touch open/close function.
Full Leather Interior: Luxurious full leather upholstery enveloped the seats and interior surfaces, creating a refined and comfortable environment.
Burl Walnut Wood Trim: Elegant burl walnut wood trim adorned the cabin, adding a touch of classic sophistication.
Multifunction Leather Sport Steering Wheel: A multifunction leather sport steering wheel provided tactile feedback and integrated controls for audio, phone, and cruise control.
14-way Power Adjustable Front Seats with 3-Position Memory: Finding the perfect driving position was effortless with 14-way power-adjustable front seats, including 3-position memory for seats, steering column, and exterior mirrors.
4-Way Power Tilt and Telescoping Steering Column: Further enhancing driver comfort, a 4-way power tilt and telescoping steering column allowed for precise steering wheel positioning.
Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Both driver and passenger could enjoy personalized climate settings thanks to the dual-zone automatic climate control system.
Electronic Cruise Control: Maintaining a set speed on long drives was simplified with electronic cruise control.
Remote Central Locking with SmartKey: Convenient remote central locking with Mercedes-Benz’s SmartKey system provided secure access to the vehicle.
Power Windows with Express Up and Down: Power windows with express up and down functionality added to the ease of use.
Auto-dimming Driver and Rearview Mirror: Auto-dimming driver and rearview mirrors reduced glare from headlights, improving nighttime driving visibility.
Integrated Garage Door Opener: An integrated garage door opener simplified access to garages and gated communities.
Intermittent Wipers with Rain Sensor: Rain-sensing intermittent wipers automatically adjusted wiper speed based on rainfall intensity.
Multi-color Ambient Lighting: * Multi-color ambient lighting allowed for customization of the cabin’s atmosphere, offering a range of color options to suit driver preferences.

Performance and Handling

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz was engineered to deliver a dynamic and refined driving experience, characterized by potent performance and balanced handling:

402 hp @ 5,250 rpm: * A powerful engine producing 402 horsepower at 5,250 rpm ensured brisk acceleration and effortless cruising.
443 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-4,750 rpm: * Ample torque, peaking at 443 lb-ft across a wide rev range (1,800-4,750 rpm), provided strong pulling power and responsiveness.
Acceleration (0 – 60 mph): 5.1s: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.1 seconds, showcasing its performance capabilities.
Top Speed 130 mph (Electronically Limited): The top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph, balancing performance with safety considerations.
7-Speed Driver-Adaptive Transmission with Sport and Economy Shift Modes: A 7-speed driver-adaptive transmission offered smooth and efficient gear changes, with Sport and Economy shift modes to tailor driving dynamics.
Steering Wheel Shift Paddles: Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles provided manual gear control, allowing for a more engaging driving experience.
Electro Hydraulic Power-assisted Speed-sensitive Rack-and-Pinion Steering: * Electro-hydraulic power-assisted speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering delivered precise and responsive steering feel, adapting to vehicle speed.
AIRMATIC Semi-active Suspension with Adaptive Damping System: AIRMATIC semi-active suspension with adaptive damping automatically adjusted suspension settings to optimize ride comfort and handling based on road conditions and driving style.
Front Suspension: 4-link Independent with Antidive Control and Stabilizer Bar: The front suspension featured a 4-link independent design with anti-dive control and a stabilizer bar, contributing to stable and controlled handling.
Rear Suspension: Multilink Independent with Antisquat Control and Stabilizer Bar: The rear suspension employed a multilink independent design with anti-squat control and a stabilizer bar, complementing the front suspension for balanced dynamics.
Front Brakes: Internally Ventilated 14.2″ front Discs w/ 4-Piston Fixed Calipers: Powerful front brakes with internally ventilated 14.2″ discs and 4-piston fixed calipers ensured strong stopping power.
Rear Brakes: Internally Ventilated 12.6″ rear Discs w/ Single Piston Sliding Calipers: Rear brakes with internally ventilated 12.6″ discs and single-piston sliding calipers provided balanced braking performance.
Dual Exhaust with Chrome Tailpipes: A dual exhaust system with chrome tailpipes added a sporty aesthetic and contributed to engine performance.

Safety and Security

Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2012 model, incorporating a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety systems:

ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness monitor: ATTENTION ASSIST monitored driver behavior for signs of drowsiness and provided alerts to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
mbrace System: The mbrace system offered a suite of telematics services, including emergency assistance, vehicle diagnostics, and remote access features, enhancing safety and convenience.
New Vehicle 4 Year/50,000 Mile Warranty: A new vehicle 4-year/50,000-mile warranty provided peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs.
24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program: A 24-hour roadside assistance program offered support in case of breakdowns or emergencies.
Steel Reinforced Cabin with Front and Rear Crumple Zones: A steel-reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones provided robust occupant protection in the event of a collision.
3-Point Seatbelts with Pre-tensioners and Force Limiters: 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters in all seating positions enhanced occupant restraint and minimized injury risk.
Front Dual Stage Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags deployed with varying force depending on impact severity, optimizing protection for front occupants.
Front Pelvic Airbags: Front pelvic airbags provided additional protection for the pelvic region in side-impact collisions.
Front and Rear Side Window Airbags: Front and rear side window airbags offered head protection for occupants in side-impact scenarios.
Front and Rear Side Airbags: Front and rear side airbags provided torso protection for occupants in side-impact collisions.
Dual Front Knee Airbags: Dual front knee airbags further enhanced lower body protection for front occupants.
NECK-PRO Active Head Restraints: NECK-PRO active head restraints automatically adjusted to help minimize whiplash injuries in rear-end collisions.
ISOFIX Anchor and Tether System: ISOFIX anchor and tether system provided secure and standardized child seat installation points.
4-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS & BAS: 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist System (BAS) ensured optimal braking performance and control in emergency situations.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Electronic Stability Program (ESP) helped maintain directional stability during cornering and evasive maneuvers.
PRE-SAFE (Predictive Protection System): PRE-SAFE predictive protection system could detect imminent collisions and proactively prepare the vehicle’s safety systems.
Roll-Over Sensor: A roll-over sensor could detect an impending rollover and trigger protective measures.
Anti-Theft Alarm with Engine Immobilizer: An anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer provided enhanced security against theft.
Night Security Illumination: Night security illumination provided exterior lighting to enhance visibility around the vehicle in dark conditions.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A tire pressure monitoring system alerted the driver to low tire pressure, promoting safety and fuel efficiency.
Panic Button Remote Key: A panic button on the remote key could activate the horn and lights in emergency situations.
Bi-Xenon Headlamps: Bi-Xenon headlamps provided brighter and more focused illumination compared to traditional halogen headlights, improving nighttime visibility.

Wheels

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz came standard with stylish and performance-oriented wheels and tires:

18″ Staggered-width 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels: 18″ staggered-width 5-spoke alloy wheels provided a sporty stance and enhanced handling.
255/40 R18 (Front) All-Season Tires on 8.5 x 18.0: Front wheels were fitted with 255/40 R18 all-season tires mounted on 8.5 x 18.0 inch rims.
285/35 R18 (Rear) All-Season Tires on 9.5 x 18.0: Rear wheels featured wider 285/35 R18 all-season tires on 9.5 x 18.0 inch rims, optimizing traction and handling balance.

Optional Packages

To further personalize the 2012 Mercedes-Benz, several optional packages were available, grouping popular features together:

Premium 1 Package ($TBD):
- Rearview Camera
- Heated & Active Ventilated Front Seats
- iPod® / MP3 Media Interface
- Power Rear-Window Sunshade
- Headlamp Cleaning System
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Full-LED Headlamps
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- KEYLESS-GO
- Electronic Trunk Closer
- Corner-Illuminating Lamps
Lane Tracking Package ($TBD):
- Blind Spot Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
Driver Assistance Package ($TBD):
- DISTRONIC PLUS (with PRE-SAFE® Brake)
- Active Blind Spot Assist*
- Active Lane Keeping Assist*
Sport Package ($TBD):
- All-Season Tires
- AMG Sport Steering Wheel
- AMG Body Styling
- AMG 18″ 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels
Sport Package Plus One ($TBD):
- High-Performance Tires
- AMG Sport Steering Wheel
- AMG Body Styling
- AMG 19″ 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels

Stand Alone Options

Individual options allowed buyers to select specific features to further customize their 2012 Mercedes-Benz:

19″ 5-Spoke Alloy Wheel
PARKTRONIC (with Advanced Parking Assist)*
Split-Folding Rear Seats*
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel
Rear side airbags
Active Multicontour Driver’s Seat
Heated Steering Wheel
Night View Assist PLUS w/Pedestrian Detection*

Paint Options

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz offered a palette of sophisticated exterior paint colors:

Black, Zircon Red, Obsidian Black, Lunar Blue, Cuprite Brown, Storm Red, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Diamond White, Indium Grey, Alubeam Titanium

Upholstery Options

Interior upholstery choices ranged from classic to contemporary:

Almond/Mocha Leather, Ash/Black Leather, Black Leather, Almond/Mocha Premium Leather, Ash/Black Premium Leather, Black Premium Leather

Optional Trim

For interior trim, buyers could select:

Black Ash

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz exemplified Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, performance, and innovation, offering a compelling package of standard features and a wide array of customization options to meet discerning drivers’ needs and preferences.

** highlights for 2012*