Summer-Ready Mercedes SUVs for Cottage Drives and Road Trips
June 24 2025,
Summer in Eastern Ontario opens up endless possibilities for weekend getaways and extended road trips. Whether you're heading to a cottage in Muskoka, exploring the Thousand Islands, or taking the family on a cross-country adventure, your vehicle becomes your basecamp for months of exploration. Mercedes SUVs deliver the comfort, capability, and technology that transform long drives into enjoyable journeys.
The right SUV makes all the difference when summer plans involve carrying kayaks, camping gear, or weeks' worth of luggage. Mercedes engineering focuses on creating vehicles that handle highway cruising, gravel cottage roads, and everything in between while keeping passengers comfortable and connected throughout the journey.
Advanced Climate Control for Canadian Summer Heat
Summer driving through Ontario means dealing with varying temperatures and humidity levels. Mercedes SUVs feature sophisticated climate management systems that maintain comfort regardless of outside conditions. THERMATIC dual-zone automatic climate control allows driver and passenger to set individual temperature preferences, while rear passengers enjoy their own climate zones in larger models.
The GLE lineup includes available 4-zone THERMOTRONIC climate control, ensuring everyone stays comfortable during long drives. Pre-Entry Climate Control lets you cool the cabin before entering the vehicle, particularly valuable when your SUV has been sitting in cottage parking areas during hot summer days.
Available features like heat and noise-insulating glass reduce cabin temperature buildup and road noise, creating a calmer environment for extended drives. Climate Comfort seats with heating and ventilation adjust automatically to maintain optimal comfort levels throughout your journey.
Cargo Solutions for Summer Adventures
Summer activities require serious cargo flexibility. The GLE 350 4MATIC offers 943 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 2,055 litres with seats folded. Power-folding 40/20/40 rear seats allow you to configure space for both passengers and gear.
The EQE SUV provides 520 litres behind the second row, with clever storage solutions throughout the cabin. Its low loading floor makes handling heavy coolers and camping equipment easier. Available roof rails accommodate additional cargo carriers for bikes, kayaks, or extra luggage.
Both models include hands-free power tailgates for easy access when your hands are full of cottage supplies. Retractable luggage covers keep valuable items out of sight during stops along your route.
AIRMATIC Suspension for Varying Road Conditions
Cottage drives often involve transitions from smooth highways to unpaved access roads. Available AIRMATIC air suspension automatically adjusts ride height and damping based on road conditions and driving modes. The system raises ground clearance for rough cottage driveways and lowers the vehicle for improved aerodynamics during highway cruising.
DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes optimize performance for different conditions:
- ECO mode: Maximizes fuel efficiency for long highway stretches
- Comfort mode: Prioritizes smooth ride quality for passenger comfort
- OFFROAD mode: Adjusts suspension and traction systems for gravel roads
- Individual mode: Allows custom settings for your preferred driving style
The system works automatically, adapting to road surfaces without driver input. This technology proves particularly valuable when transitioning between highway driving and cottage property access roads.
Connected Technology for Extended Trips
Long summer drives benefit from advanced connectivity and entertainment features. The MBUX infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping your music and navigation apps accessible without cables. Available Burmester 3D Surround Sound systems create an immersive audio experience for passengers.
MB Navigation with live traffic information helps avoid construction delays common during summer travel season. Over-the-air map updates ensure your navigation system stays current with road changes. Available in-car WiFi keeps passengers connected during extended drives.
Mercedes me connect services allow remote vehicle monitoring and control. Check fuel levels, lock status, or start the engine remotely to cool the cabin before departing from cottage activities.
Your Summer Adventure Companion
Mercedes SUVs combine luxury and technology with the practical capability needed for summer adventures. Whether you choose the spacious GLE for family trips or the efficient EQE SUV for couple getaways, both deliver the comfort and reliability that make summer driving enjoyable.
Experience Mercedes SUV summer readiness with a test drive at Mercedes-Benz Ottawa Downtown.
