The Correct Usage of the S Gear in Ford Escort?
2 Answers
S gear is referred to as the sport mode, which can be engaged at any time while in D gear by adjusting the gear lever to the sport mode. The sport mode will remain active until you manually shift up or down by pressing the + or - on the gear knob, or by moving the gear lever back to the drive gear D.
I've always felt that the S mode in the Ford Escort is an incredibly exhilarating option, perfect for when you want to experience a quick acceleration—just push it over. For instance, when overtaking on the highway or climbing hills, shifting to S mode raises the engine RPM, delays gear shifts, and makes the car more responsive with stronger power. I usually enjoy experimenting with these modes while driving, but I avoid prolonged use to save fuel and prevent transmission wear. In city traffic, it's best to switch back to D mode for smoother and more fuel-efficient driving. On weekends when I hit mountain roads, I always use it, pairing it with manual shifting for extra fun—but avoid sudden acceleration on slippery surfaces. Remember, safety first. Make it a habit to use sport mode only for short periods or in specific scenarios to maximize performance without harming the car.