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.

Open to drivers of all aptitudes – whether they own a Mercedes-Benz vehicle or not – it’s a rare opportunity to explore the capabilities of Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG vehicles in a controlled environment with the aid of expert, professional drivers. These one-of-a-kind driving experiences are held at premier tracks across Australia, which can include Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW, Sandown Raceway, VIC, The Bend, SA and Mount Cotton, QLD.

Below, we give you a behind-the scenes look at one of the action-packed Mercedes-Benz Driving Events recently held at Sydney Motorsport Park. Read on to see how it unfolded!

Spoiled for choice

The day began bright and early with a driver briefing at 8:30am, before the real excitement began on the track. The first hour of the program was dedicated to ‘Drive the Range’, where participants selected their favourite Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-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 53 SUV, with its powerful electric drivetrain and performance-oriented drive; the elegant Mercedes-Benz S-Class S 580L, equipped with a range of innovative assistance systems and comfort features; 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

After an hour of putting these vehicles to the test on the track, drivers transitioned to 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 braking scenarios, experience the difference between driving with the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on and off, and discover techniques to become better, safer drivers on public roads.

One particularly educational exercise was a ‘brake 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 braking and steering to avoid a collision. It was a practical application of the cars’ safety technologies, highlighting how a driver’s skill works in tandem with our assistance systems to create a safer environment on the road.