Montreal, QC – Introduced back in 1987, the Mercedes-Benz 4Matic system has blossomed into a must have. It has not only become a desire, but reached a point where it's the only option offered on certain vehicles. This surge in 4Matic vehicle sales has led to an incredible take rate of 83.5 per cent in 2014 and an expected growth to 91 per cent with the inclusion of the B-Class and CLA.

The aforementioned two cars are part of the reason Mercedes-Benz sent a host of journalists to Montreal and through the Eastern Townships of Quebec for a winter driving clinic to showcase the 4Matic all-wheel drive system. A few challenges were set-up around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve to showcase 4Matic's optimal traction that best known for making the best use of all four wheels during slippery conditions.

The CLA250 received the option of 4Matic in 2014; while the B250 gets it this year, making it the 37th vehicle to carry it. Mercedes-Benz believes for only an additional $2,200 – most consumers will opt for the additional comfort and confidence provided in an all-wheel drive system. And with that extremely high take rate – why wouldn't they?

At the race track, the B250 and CLA250 took on a slalom course, an ice circle and a braking control test. The slalom exercises showcased how the 4Matic system stayed balanced and on course with little correction. I varied my speeds on each run alternating with the ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on and off, and could definitely notice the difference. When enabled, I found myself able to comfortably hold acceleration longer, while directing the B250 and CLA250 exactly where I needed to go. On the flip side, under a disabled system I managed to keep between the pylons, but with less of a rhythm and more steering adjustments.

The ice circle was a different animal altogether. This was more to do about technique and driving awareness than anything else. At times, understanding the way to drive on ice or slippery conditions is just as crucial as your set of winter tires. The combination of a set of winter tires, an all-wheel drive system and the proper driving technique might save you from imminent harm. A part of the Mercedes-Benz Winter Driving Academy teaches you to work with your vehicle, which includes precisely knowing when to take your foot off the throttle in order to correctly position the car back on course and in the direction you desire. This exercise gets a little out of hand when the 4Matic vehicle's ESP is disabled, but can still manage to stay the course when the proper throttle and steering is enforced.

Lastly, the braking tests were an eye opener on avoiding the use of your ABS system. The simple technique of guiding your transport vehicle into a mild and smooth stop was taught, but only after a little fun with timing the perfect stop with the use of ABS. It's nice to know that your ABS back-up is there when needed, but more importantly, it was important to learn what can happen when you take a slippery road too fast. On my first run, my confidence ran high, and naturally led to my detriment. Not only did I shoot past the stopping pylon point – it was so ridiculous that after failing to stop, I just continued on back to the starting gates without ever coming to a full stop. Clearly, having winter tires doesn't provide you free reign to accelerate and push your vehicle to the limits.

After a few more runs, my understanding of the ABS system in the CLA250 was absorbed and I could handle both ABS stops and smooth braking without the use of extra support. With the proper technique and acceleration, the sedan became a champion of the snow with the triple threat of proper driving technique, all-wheel drive and winter tires.

After those fun exercises, it was time to test both 4Matics on regular road conditions. We travelled on a journey through some windy roads and uphill battles around the Eastern Townships of Quebec. It was the perfect mix of paved and unpaved roads to test the traction abilities of both vehicles. Regardless of which wheel felt some slippage, the system maintained the crucial balance of power for added control.

This was the first opportunity I've had to drive the B250 and I have to say it's the quintessential luxury starter vehicle that can hold its open on the slipperiest of conditions. It not only looks the part with a new front fascia for 2015, it's small enough to weave its way through windy roads, while managing to fit nicely into downtown parking spots.

The CLA250 is a different animal that provides a reasonable option for those looking for a sedan. It might have the looks and flash of a typical Mercedes-Benz, but you will find it lacking in the power and smoothness department. However, if you take the plunge – the 4Matic system will provide you that added comfort and reliability you come to expect with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

The 4Matic word might be a nice marketing name for Mercedes-Benz's all-wheel drive system, but it sure makes up for it with a tremendous sales take. Not only is the system equipped for those treacherous winter conditions, but it can also attack mud and excels into corners. With the rise of more compact car sales, it was only logical for these two vehicles to be equipped with one of the better all-wheel drive systems offered. After a real-world test on a controlled track setting and regular road conditions – there's no surprise to why most people shell out those extra $2,200 shekels.