Passive safety comprises all measures which are designed to offer protection in an accident. Examples include the NECK-PRO head restraint, a standard feature on the front seats: when the sensor detects an impact from the rear, it thrusts the head restraint forwards in a matter of a few milliseconds to reduce the gap between it and the occupant’s head.

All seats are fitted with 3-point seat belts. Belt tensioners on the front and the two rear seats pull the belts taught against the body in the event of a frontal or rear-end collision of a specific severity. The belt force limiters increase occupant safety in a frontal collision. They ensure that the tension is released in a controlled manner once a set limit has been reached.

The E-Class Coupé is fitted as standard with front airbags, sidebags plus windowbags for all seats.

In addition to focusing on occupant protection in the development of the new E-Class Coupé consideration was also given to other road users, especially pedestrians. In the event of front impact the completely reversible active bonnet pops up by approx. five centimetres using spring force, thus creating additional crumple space to reduce the risk of injury to other people on the road. An extra safety advantage for pedestrians is the Brake Assist (BAS): it can recognise emergency braking situations based on the actuation speed of the braking pedal and automatically build up full braking power.