What do the S and L gears mean on the Honda CR-V?
3 Answers
Honda CR-V's S gear is the sport mode, and the L gear is the low gear. The meaning of S gear (sport mode): S stands for sport mode. Using the S gear can enhance driving pleasure. In this mode, the transmission can shift freely, but the shifting timing is delayed, keeping the engine at higher RPMs for a longer time, thereby increasing the vehicle's power. The meaning of L gear (low gear): L gear is the low gear, which can be understood as the 2nd gear in a manual transmission. The L gear is also the low forward gear. When going downhill or descending a long slope, shifting into this gear limits the car's automatic shifting to the lowest gear (equivalent to the 1st gear in a manual transmission), allowing the car to use the engine's power for braking. This prevents the driver from having to press the brake for extended periods, which could overheat the brake pads and lead to danger.
I've driven the Honda CR-V for many years and am quite familiar with the S and L gear positions. S stands for Sport mode, which delays gear shifting to keep the engine RPM higher, delivering more powerful performance—ideal for overtaking, climbing steep hills, or rapid acceleration; it's quite enjoyable for highway driving. L is Low gear, primarily used for long descents or steep downhill sections, utilizing engine braking to slow down and protect the brake system from overheating—especially safe for driving downhill in rain or snow. I should mention that the S mode consumes more fuel, so it's best to use it sparingly in city driving; the L gear is rarely used in daily driving, only switched when terrain demands. Shifting is straightforward—just move the gear lever—unlike some cars with more complex procedures. Mastering these functions makes the driving experience more flexible and safer.
As a car enthusiast, the S and L gear designs of the Honda CR-V are pretty cool. When you shift into S mode, the engine roar intensifies, gear shifts are delayed to maintain high RPMs, the acceleration push is strong, and the thrill of speeding doubles; it also comes in handy for off-roading or climbing hills. L mode is the low-speed setting, forcing the transmission to stay in lower gears. When going downhill, the engine helps slow the car down, saving brake pads while maintaining control; once during a steep mountain descent, L mode was crucial for steady speed control. However, using S mode too much burns more fuel, so I generally reserve it for highways or open roads. Don’t overuse L mode—it’s strictly for steep slopes. The gear shifts are smooth, and Honda’s setup is both practical and exhilarating.
