The Great Adventure: 600km of Forest and Coastal Roads Conquered with 12 Mercedes-Benz.

Every year, Mercedes-Benz Vietnam (MBV) organizes test drive trips for journalists and media partners to experience the latest models. However, this year’s journey had a unique twist.

Named STAR-Venture, this was perhaps the first time an automotive brand combined two distinct routes and styles to showcase both their powerful SUVs and elegant sedans.

Our group of about 30 people was divided into two teams, each taking a different path and schedule, yet sharing the same starting and ending points (Da Nang – Mang Den and vice versa).

With 12 cars and 3 main models – GLC, C-Class, and E-Class, MBV crafted a journey of approximately 600 km, filled with emotions and leading to one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam.

STAR Route – A Smooth and Luxurious Experience with the E-Class and C-Class Sedans

On the first day, we embarked on the STAR route, covering nearly 300 km from Da Nang to Mang Den via the Da Nang – Quang Ngai Expressway and conquering the Violak Pass.

Aboard the Mercedes E-300 AMG, we were designed to savor the subtlety and luxury of the “Merc” sedans. We relished the firm pedal stomps, effortless overtaking, stability, and impressive noise insulation at the prevalent speed range of 100-120 km/h on the expressway. Here, the 2.0 EQ Boost engine showcased its prowess with robust performance and smooth acceleration.

The steering wheel was notably heavier, lending a sense of certainty and composure to our maneuvers. According to the manufacturer, the Mercedes Original tires are custom-made, tested, and fine-tuned specifically for the E-Class, ensuring absolute compatibility with the safety systems, enhancing handling, shortening braking distances, and optimizing fuel efficiency.

It’s only when driving on the expressway or coastal roads that one truly appreciates the mature and refined emotions that the E-Class evokes. This model exudes a sense of maturity, sophistication, and opulence.

Ascending the Violak Pass was another intriguing experience with the E 300 AMG. While a challenging journey for regular cars, the E 300 AMG made light work of it. The potent torque and enhanced throttle response in Sport mode made this stretch a breeze.

Our journey of over 280 km to Mang Den culminated at a cafe named View Sieo Chil, where we united with the SUV contingent, basking in the sun and breeze of one of the hottest vacation spots.

Venture Route – Steep Climbs, Ethnic Villages, and the GLC’s Power and Agility

On the second day, we switched to the GLC 300 4Matic and embarked on a challenging route from Mang Den back to Da Nang, traversing steep passes and complex curves.

The intricate twists, narrow stretches, off-road sections, and steep climbs offered a unique driving experience. Amidst the majestic scenery of the sunny and windy highlands, the driver had to remain focused while the passengers nodded off to the rhythmic motion of the car – truly, our country is breathtakingly beautiful.

As we continuously ascended and descended the slopes, we immersed ourselves in the famed Truong Son Dong (East Truong Son) route, passing through ethnic minority villages with stretches of over ten kilometers without encountering another vehicle.

Our “travel companion,” the GLC 300 4Matic – a powerhouse packed with cutting-edge technology and safety features – was the key to our enjoyable journey.

With a 45%-55% torque distribution between the front and rear axles, the new-generation GLC is specifically engineered for navigating and conquering diverse terrain. The challenging mountain roads of Mang Den, with their varied landscapes, provided the perfect opportunity to maximize the off-road-related features, including the off-road driving mode, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), and the off-road display.

The GLC 300 4MATIC is fitted with Mercedes Original Extended (MOE) tires, custom-made for this model to ensure optimal safety and compatibility with the vehicle’s features, resulting in agile handling and shorter braking distances.

At the heart of the GLC is the 2.0 EQ Boost Mild-hybrid engine and the second-generation integrated starter-generator (ISG). The car starts incredibly smoothly, almost silently, prompting us to joke about a possible malfunction. However, when needed, it displays remarkable power and agility, offering optimal control. In Sport+ mode, the car becomes more responsive and steady around curves, inspiring greater driving confidence.

To add a touch of “chil” to our journey, we stopped at a pop-up cafe set up by MBV amid the mountains for refreshments and once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.

After a lunch stop in Quang Ngai, we continued our journey to Hoi An, where we had the opportunity to drive on the sand with the GLC under the expert guidance of professional instructors.

The trip concluded on the third day as we traveled from Hoi An back to Da Nang along the coastal route, leaving us with unforgettable memories. Over three days, we had the opportunity to explore the mountains and the sea, experiencing the sophistication, elegance, and raw power of Mercedes’ SUVs and sedans.

However, what remains most vivid in my memory are the “chil” experiences with the sun and wind of Central Vietnam, the refreshing atmosphere of Mang Den, and the chance to meet and bond with fun-loving, charismatic, and experienced colleagues and friends.