
Yes, Mercedes-Benz makes what are widely considered smart cars, but it's more accurate to say they make luxury vehicles with advanced smart technology. The brand's current focus is on integrating sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) throughout the driving experience, most notably with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. This system uses natural language processing to understand conversational commands for everything from navigation to climate control. Furthermore, Mercedes offers one of the most advanced Level 3 conditional automated driving systems available to consumers, DRIVE PILOT, which allows for hands-free, eyes-off-the-road operation in certain traffic conditions on approved highways.
The intelligence extends beyond the cabin. Features like the self-parking system, where the car can autonomously maneuver into a parking spot while the driver stands outside using a smartphone app, demonstrate a high level of situational awareness. Mercedes also utilizes over-the-air (OTA) updates to continuously improve vehicle software, adding new features and refining existing ones long after purchase. The upcoming MMA platform, which will underpin future compact models, is being designed specifically around a new generation of AI-powered software for even more personalized and predictive capabilities.
| Mercedes-Benz Smart Technology Feature | Description | Example Model(s) |
|---|---|---|
| MBUX with "Hey Mercedes" | AI-powered voice assistant that learns user preferences. | C-Class, S-Class, EQS |
| DRIVE PILOT | SAE Level 3 conditional automated driving system (where legal). | S-Class, EQS |
| Remote Parking Assist | Allows the car to park itself via smartphone app. | E-Class, S-Class |
| Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates | Capability to receive software upgrades remotely. | Most new models |
| Energizing Comfort Control | Integrates climate, seating, and fragrance based on user mood. | S-Class, EQS |
| PRE-SAFE® Sound | Employs counter noise to protect hearing before a collision. | Various models |
While Mercedes doesn't market a separate car called a "smart car" (the Smart brand was a separate microcar venture), its entire modern lineup is engineered with intelligent systems aimed at enhancing safety, comfort, and convenience, making them incredibly smart luxury vehicles.

From my experience behind the wheel, my Mercedes feels plenty smart. The voice assistant actually works; I can just say "Hey Mercedes, I'm cold" and it adjusts the climate control without me fumbling with buttons. It learns my routines, suggesting navigation to the gym on Saturday mornings. It's not about a flashy giant screen; it's about technology that feels intuitive and helpful, not distracting. The car anticipates my needs, which is the smartest thing a car can do.

If you're comparing brands, Mercedes is a key player in smart tech, but it's a different approach than, say, Tesla. Tesla focuses on a minimalist, screen-centric experience. Mercedes integrates its technology more seamlessly into a traditional luxury environment. You get a brilliant voice assistant, incredible augmented reality navigation that shows arrows on a live video feed of the road, and an optional Level 3 automated driving system that's legally approved for use in some states. Their smart tech is about sophisticated assistance, not just a raw tech showcase.

Mercedes has been working on smart car concepts for decades. Look back at the 1998 S-Class; it had things like radar-assisted cruise control, which was science fiction for most cars back then. They've been steadily building on that foundation. So, their current MBUX system and DRIVE PILOT aren't just reactions to new competitors; they're the result of a long-term commitment to R&D. This history gives me confidence that their systems are thoroughly tested and integrated with their renowned focus on safety and build quality.

The term "smart car" has evolved. For Mercedes today, it's embodied in their all-electric EQS sedan. This car is a tech flagship. Its massive Hyperscreen, a single curved glass panel spanning the dashboard, is the face of its intelligence. The AI doesn't just respond to commands; it proactively suggests functions based on your habits, the time of day, and even your location. It's a rolling computer that also happens to be a supremely comfortable and quiet luxury vehicle. This is the direction Mercedes is taking: smart technology as an integral part of the premium experience.


