What does D/S gear mean?
2 Answers
D gear, in a car, means the drive gear and is the most commonly used gear while driving. Since the advent of automatic transmission models, the D gear has existed. S gear is actually the abbreviation of the English word "SPORT," meaning sport, and it is the sport mode of the D gear. Many car models have added the S mode to enhance the vehicle's sportiness and playability. Below are the relevant introductions: 1. D gear: For the vehicle, the D gear is also the most economical gear. In D gear, the throttle and engine response are relatively gentle, and the gear shifts are more comfortable. All settings of the D gear are focused on fuel efficiency and comfort. 2. S gear: Both S gear and D gear are forward gears, but in S gear, the engine's power output becomes more aggressive. At the same time, the throttle becomes more sensitive, and the transmission delays shifting. The RPM increases, acceleration becomes faster, and the vehicle's power performance is further enhanced. Compared to D gear, S gear is more suitable for car owners who pursue driving pleasure. 3. When to use S gear: S gear is generally used for overtaking or climbing slopes, and it can also be used during the acceleration phase when entering the highway to help speed up. Of course, many car owners who want to experience an intense driving style in daily life can also engage S gear to feel the surging power output.
Regarding your question, d/s on the car refers to the positions on the gear lever. D stands for Drive, used for normal driving, as it automatically adjusts gear shifts to ensure smooth and fuel-efficient driving, such as in the city or during highway cruising. S is Sport mode, which shifts more aggressively, keeps engine RPM higher, and provides faster acceleration, making it suitable for overtaking, climbing hills, or when you want to enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. In my daily driving, I usually use D mode because it's quieter and more economical, but when encountering uphill mountain roads or needing quicker response, I switch to S mode, feeling the car has more power. However, be aware that prolonged use of S mode increases fuel consumption by about 10%-15%, so consider road conditions and fuel costs before using it. Some cars also integrate intelligent systems with automatic transmissions, fine-tuning based on driving style to ensure longer engine life. If unsure how to switch, try checking the manual. Remember, safety first—avoid unnecessary gear changes in heavy traffic to prevent transmission damage.
