4Matic is an all-wheel drive system developed by Mercedes-Benz to increase traction in slippery conditions. It is designed to send power from the engine to all four wheels, instead of just sending it to either the front or rear wheels, which gives it increased grip and traction, improving handling, acceleration, and stability. The system automatically adjusts itself for a variety of surfaces and driving conditions without the driver having any input. The 4Matic system includes the 4-wheel Electronic Traction System (4-ETS), which means individual sensors and brakes on every wheel. So when only one of your wheels has traction, the 4Matic system can keep you rolling. The 4Matic system is fully integrated into the vehicle, so it reacts instantly and adjusts to any scenario. Nearly all Mercedes-Benz vehicles that feature this system are paired with an automatic transmission as the default transmission. The first design of the 4Matic system was introduced in 1987 on the W124 series (E Class) saloons (four-door) and estate (station wagon) cars. An increasing number of Mercedes models are now offered with 4Matic, including large SUVs, GLA, GLB, and high-performance AMG variants.