A feature of the luxury car market has always been the excessive number of optional extras. From BMW to Ferrari, you can often spend almost the same money on extras as the base vehicle cost. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes Benz, have bundled extras together into packages, to allow customers an easier selection process.
One of the most popular packages on a modern Mercedes is the Premium package. This includes a variety of features and is available on most low to mid-spec models in the Mercedes Benz range. But what exactly does the Premium package contain, and how much does it cost?
Let’s start by looking at what is included when choosing the Mercedes Premium package. This can be confusing, as Mercedes often includes different options depending on the vehicle model.
This can mean an E-Class coupe might have different options included in the Premium package compared to a GLC SUV. This might sound strange, but we’ll clear things up below.
What Mercedes Models Have This Package?
The Premium package is available on the below models:
- GLA 250
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 250
- GLB 35 AMG
- E 350
- E 450
- CLA 250
- CLS 450
On some higher spec models, like the S Class, a few of the Premium package options are available individually. It’s worth checking if there’s a feature you want, such as the Burmester sound system, and go for that as a standalone option.
What’s included in the Mercedes Benz Premium Package?
The Premium package from Mercedes contains the following options, depending on the model you are buying:
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster display
- 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display
- Auto-dimming driver-side and inside rearview mirrors
- Sirius XM 6-month subscription
- Power-folding side mirrors
- Keyless go
- Hands-free access
- Household-type 115V power outlet
- Burmester Surround Sound System
- Surround View System
- Parktronic with Active Parking Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
10.25” Digital Instrument Cluster Display
For the lower-spec Mercedes vehicles, the Premium package includes an upgraded cluster display. This replaces the standard instrument dials with a digital cluster, providing more information and customization. This option can be combined with the central upgraded touchscreen to provide a digital dashboard.
The upgraded digital display is one of the best features of a modern Mercedes. The screen quality is excellent, and having a customizable display can help with navigation and entertainment, without having to use the central screen.
The digital dials aren’t our favorite in the industry (Audi has a slightly better setup) but all the required information can be accessed easily. As a fixture in the car, there are issues on some models with visibility through the steering wheel, but these problems are minor. Overall, the digital instrument cluster display is one of the better reasons to choose the Premium package.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLB 250
- CLA 250
10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia display
This part of the Premium package converts your central infotainment screen to a larger, touchscreen display. Alongside the upgrade driver display, this creates one single digital dashboard (although it is still two separate screens).
This feature is heavily customizable and includes all the menu options you would expect from a modern infotainment system. This has its pros and cons, as the larger touchscreen replaces a lot of control that used to be physical buttons. Design-wise this improves the cabin, but controls like temperature are trickier to access.
Visually this is a stunning piece of equipment, and we have to commend Mercedes for including this as an option for their entry vehicles, the A-Class and GLA models. It adds a truly premium feel to the cabin, and it’s a great feature to have, even if the touchscreen isn’t the best to use.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLB 250
- CLA 250
Auto-dimming driver-side and inside rearview mirrors
The auto-dimming mirror function is part of the Premium package on a number of Mercedes models. Like other manufacturers, this option gives your driver’s side and rearview mirror the ability to block some light. That might sound like a hindrance, but it’s designed to help avoid any glare, mostly from other headlights.
If you’ve never used a vehicle with this option you’re probably thinking “ this doesn’t sound like a premium “ and we have to agree with you. It’s a useful feature to have and can help in certain situations, but auto-dimming mirrors don’t feel like they should be in an optional package, on cars already costing more than $40,000.
Unlike the upgraded digital screens, I can’t see anyone buying the premium package for this option. In the future, I hope Mercedes make this a standard feature on all vehicles.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 250
- GLB 35 AMG
- CLA 250
Sirius XM Platinum Plan
A few Mercedes models come with a trial plan for Sirius XM Platinum, lasting six months. With the platinum plan you get every station (over 425), podcasts and sports commentary. It’s usually $24/month, so this is a generous trial included with the premium package.
For some of you the standard Sirius XM music plan will be enough, but if you’ve got plenty of long journeys planned in your Mercedes, having a bit of variety on the radio can help.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 35 AMG
- E 350
- E 450
- CLS 450
Power-folding side mirrors
The power folding side mirrors are a basic addition to the Premium package. This option simply adds the ability to electronically fold in both side mirrors, form a button inside the car, and also when locking the car.
Like the auto-dimming mirrors, this is an option we believe should be standard on Mercedes vehicles by now. It’s a helpful feature to have, and on every car, I’ve owned with folding mirrors, they have saved me in some tight parking spaces.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 250
- GLB 35 AMG
- CLA 250
Keyless-Go
Keyless-Go is another feature most drivers will be familiar with. Put simply, as long as you have the vehicle keys nearby, you can open the car and start the engine. On Mercedes vehicles it also allows you to open the front passenger door too.
I’ll be honest – this might sound like a simple feature but I’d struggle to live without this now. Keyless entry systems on modern vehicles just make the process of starting your car that much easier. It’s not going to revolutionize your Mercedes experience, but it’s a helpful option to have.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 250
- GLB 35 AMG
- CLA 250
Hands-Free Access
Like Keyless-Go, the Hands-Free Access feature is one I’d always recommend. This option allows you to access the trunk/boot of your car with a motion sensor under the rear bumper, which can be activated by your foot.
That might seem trivial and of very limited use, but anyone who’s tried to fight with their shopping and find their keys will agree how hands-free access removes that frustration. This is another feature that you’ll struggle to live without once you’ve tried it.
One issue I do have with these access systems is how well they work. I haven’t tried the latest Mercedes system, but other cars with this feature have been hit-and-miss with functionality and detection. With Mercedes’ feature quality, I’d expect this to be one of the best access systems though.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLA 35 AMG
- GLB 250
- GLB 35 AMG
- E 350
- E 450
- CLA 250
Household-type 115V power outlet
A 115V power outlet is a great option to have, although we don’t think it really fits in with a Premium package. Only available on a couple of models, you get a power socket in the rear console, providing charging ability for a range of devices.
This feature has been on Mercedes models for nearly two decades, and it’s probably an option we won’t see for much longer. Power sockets are helpful options, but the rise of USB connections, particularly USB C, can accommodate most devices.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- GLB 250
Burmester Surround Sound System
Another option that’s limited to a handful of models, the Burmester Surround Sound System is one of the best parts of the Premium package. I will always look for upgraded sound systems when searching for used vehicles, and the Mercedes option is one of the best.
The Burmester upgrade includes 12 speakers, with a 120-watt subwoofer. The audio quality from the basic Mercedes speakers is good, but this is another level of quality. Burmester has worked closely with Mercedes to develop this system, and it shows.
On some Mercedes vehicles, this is available as a standalone extra. For me, it doesn’t matter if it’s in the Premium package or an individual option; you have to get this Soundsystem.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- E 350
- E 450
- CLS 450
Surround View System
The Surround View System is another part of the Premium package that we strongly recommend. Vehicle cameras are getting more advanced every year, and the surround view system from Mercedes is one of the best out there.
This feature gives you a detailed view of the entire car, and unlike some manufacturers, the camera quality is surprisingly impressive. The system also displays any obstacles that you might miss from your mirrors, avoiding hidden curbs. The system also helps with information when reversing, although this is nothing new.
Another feature that I would personally choose as an individual option, the surround view system makes the Premium package difficult to ignore.
Models that get this feature:
- GLA 250
- E 350
- E 450
- CLS 450
Parktronic with Active Parking Assist
Another addition to aid your parking, alongside the surround view system, is the Parktronic feature. Like most manufacturers, Mercedes has branded their automatic parking system, and Parktronic is the result. Allowing your car to park itself in parallel or perpendicular spaces, this can be a great feature if you live in a city, and parking is a challenge.
In short, the Parktronic system allows your Mercedes to control the steering and speed to reverse into a parking bay, and it can also help to steer you back out. There are sensors at the front and rear of the Mercedes to help you avoid any hidden obstacles too.
Models that get this feature:
- E 350
- E 450
- CLS 450
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
The final feature in the Premium Pack is the Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Compared to what we’ve seen already, this is a simple feature, but it can be vital. The alert system is there to alert you to any traffic near the rear of your Mercedes while you are reversing.
When reversing out of a parking bay, or any similar situation, if the system detects another vehicle of an obstacle, it will alert you with an icon and noise on your infotainment screen. In extreme cases, your Mercedes can also brake for you if it thinks there is an issue.
Models that get this feature:
- E 350
- E 450
How Much Does The Premium Pack Cost?
The cost of the Premium package depends on the model, but as a rough guide for the US market (as of August 2023):
- GLA 250: $1,850
- GLA 35 AMG: $950
- GLB 250: $1,750
- GLB 35 AMG: $950
- E 350: $2,400
- E 450: $2,290
- CLA 250: $1,750
- CLS 450: $2,300
Is the Premium Package Worth It?
Overall, we are a fan of the Premium package, although we think it’s only worthwhile on certain vehicles. As we’ve mentioned, the best parts of the Premium package are the upgraded digital screens and the Burmester sound system. There are some useful features here too, such as hands-free access and keyless-go.
The price is steep, particularly on the low-spec vehicles, but if your premium package includes what we’ve mentioned above, it’s definitely worth considering.
If you want to find out more from Mercedes Benz, check out the links below:
Mercedes Warmth And Comfort Package Explained
Mercedes Driver Assistance Package Explained
The Best Mercedes Daily Drivers
Which Mercedes Models Have A Heated Steering Wheel?
Which Mercedes Benz Models Have Ambient Lighting?
Mercedes Dynamic Select Modes Explained
