What does ECON mean on Honda cars?
2 Answers
ECON on Honda cars is the abbreviation for the low-carbon eco-driving mode, and this button can turn the energy-saving mode on or off. Modern cars generally offer three driving modes to choose from: Eco mode, Comfort mode, and Sport mode. Below is information about these three modes: Eco mode: When the car is in this mode, fuel consumption is relatively low. The throttle pedal sensitivity decreases, and the transmission shifts up more aggressively. Comfort mode: This mode can be considered a normal operating mode for the car. In this mode, the throttle pedal response is more sensitive than in Eco mode. Sport mode: Sport mode can be used during aggressive driving. When Sport mode is activated, the throttle pedal response becomes very sensitive, and the transmission delays shifting. The transmission will only upshift once the engine speed reaches the redline. After switching to Sport mode, the engine speed will remain around 3,000 RPM, ensuring better power response during acceleration. When the car enters ECON mode, it achieves reduced fuel consumption and energy savings, but the vehicle's power output weakens. ECON can be understood as the abbreviation for 'economy.' In most cases, it is recommended to keep ECON mode on. Only when high torque output is required (e.g., climbing hills) or when driving at very high speeds should ECON mode be turned off. After pressing the ECON button, the car enters the low-carbon eco-driving mode. Subsequently, the ECU, engine, and transmission intelligently execute the driver's intentions in the most fuel-efficient manner, achieving optimal fuel economy through rapid upshifts and smooth acceleration. When the driver presses the throttle pedal deeply, the ECON system effectively controls the opening and closing of the intake valves to ensure smooth engine operation and energy savings. Although ECON mode is simple and effective, it does not work under certain conditions: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, priority is given to speed, and the Eco mode automatically deactivates. This means that if the speed exceeds the economical range (typically between 60-90 km/h), ECON mode will not save fuel. The key to ECON mode is the use of computer-controlled independent operation while driving to make it effective. Therefore, ECON does not work during idle parking or when in N, P, or manual mode.
The ECON button on Honda cars stands for economic driving mode. Once pressed, the vehicle enters an energy-saving state, making the engine and air conditioning feel automatically softened. Acceleration becomes less aggressive, and the air conditioning turns milder, helping save some fuel costs. I often use ECON during my daily commute in congested traffic, and it reduces my gas station visits by once a month, saving about 5% on fuel expenses. However, I turn it off when driving on highways or in urgent situations because the acceleration does feel slower. Overall, it's a practical feature—a small helper for average car owners to manage daily expenses while being slightly more eco-friendly. Honda's thoughtful design makes driving more economical and hassle-free.
