
D gear can be switched to S gear, and there is no need to press the brake pedal during the switch because both D gear and S gear are forward gears. However, after switching to S gear, the car's power will be stronger, and the throttle pedal's sensitivity will also increase. S gear is the car's sport mode (S stands for sport). How to use S gear: 1. To switch to manual mode, you must shift the gear to D gear and then push the gear lever to the right. At this point, the transmission first enters sport mode; 2. Then, you can shift gears by pushing the gear lever forward or backward. In Volkswagen cars, pushing forward is for upshifting, and pushing backward is for downshifting. You can see the current gear from the upper right corner of the central screen on the dashboard; 3. If you want to switch back to automatic mode, simply push the gear lever to the left to the D gear position to complete the switch. At this point, the gear will be controlled by the computer.

As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I often switch from D to S mode when driving on highways or mountain roads. The process is simple—just a gentle push of the gear lever, and the car handles it smoothly during normal driving. S mode delays gear shifts, giving the engine more power, which is especially useful for overtaking or climbing hills. However, I advise beginners not to experiment recklessly: ensure your speed is above 40 km/h before switching, as shifting too fast or at low speeds could damage the transmission. Always check your vehicle’s manual for specific limits, as designs vary across models. Also, S mode slightly increases fuel consumption, so it’s not always necessary. I keep an eye on the dashboard for mode changes, staying focused on the road to avoid distractions. Overall, it’s a handy feature, but using it wisely is key.

From a technical standpoint, automatic transmissions are designed to allow dynamic shifting between D (Drive) and S (Sport) modes. S mode maintains lower gears for enhanced responsiveness, and I can switch to it while driving without needing to slow down or stop. However, this increases engine RPM for more aggressive acceleration, typically used when extra power is needed. Caution is advised against frequent shifts or incorrect gear selection to prevent excessive component wear. Most modern vehicles intelligently manage these transitions, though older models require more careful operation. I always consult the manual first to understand limitations and ensure smooth acceleration during shifts to minimize drivetrain shock. This approach lets you enjoy spirited driving without harming your vehicle – definitely worth trying.

Of course you can shift gears while driving, I've done it many times while driving. Directly switching to S mode is quick and convenient, especially when overtaking or climbing hills requiring extra power. Ensure the speed is appropriate when operating, such as maintaining a steady speed above 20 km/h, and avoid sudden throttle presses to prevent damage. The switching process is simple—just push the gear lever. For safety, stay focused on driving to avoid accidents from misoperation. It's important to refer to the vehicle manual to confirm specific rules rather than following blindly.


