What does NORMAL mode mean?

[Collin]

NORMAL in a car refers to the conventional or standard driving mode, which is the most commonly used mode. In this mode, every aspect of the car's performance is balanced to achieve the best compromise between fuel economy, quietness, and power performance, making it suitable for urban driving. Modern automatic transmissions are designed with different shift logics in the electronic control unit to meet various driving requirements and adapt to different road conditions. A mode selection switch is also provided on the control panel, allowing drivers to choose the transmission control mode independently. Common automatic transmission control modes include the following: ECONOMY mode: This control mode is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. When the automatic transmission operates in ECONOMY mode, its shift pattern ensures the engine frequently runs within the most economical speed range, thereby improving fuel economy. POWER mode: This control mode is designed to maximize the vehicle's power performance. In this mode, the automatic transmission's shift pattern ensures the engine frequently operates within the high-power range, enhancing the car's acceleration and climbing capabilities. SNOW mode: Some automatic transmission models feature a "snowflake" button near the gear lever, which activates the SNOW mode. This mode uses programmed settings to make the transmission start in second gear, ensuring smoother and gentler torque output and reducing the likelihood of tire slippage on icy or snowy roads. SPORT mode: The electronic control unit increases the engine speed to maintain sufficient torque and enhance power performance, though this consumes more fuel. It temporarily boosts engine power for rapid acceleration, essentially functioning as an acceleration gear, hill-climbing gear, or overtaking gear. In SPORT mode, the engine speed surges sharply. Additionally, high engine speeds in SPORT mode can help remove carbon deposits, but prolonged use is not recommended as it increases transmission load, raises temperatures, and accelerates wear. INDIVIDUAL mode: This allows drivers to customize feedback settings for various modules, typically including steering wheel weight, chassis stiffness, throttle response, transmission reaction, engine mode, steering system mode, and exhaust system mode.

[ArthurFitz]

I've been driving a taxi for nearly 20 years, cruising around the city every day, and the mode I'm most familiar with is NORMAL. This mode represents the vehicle's basic settings, delivering a smooth and steady drive—neither too aggressive nor sluggish. The throttle response is just right; it won't suddenly accelerate and make you uncomfortable in traffic jams, yet it provides enough power for highway overtaking, unlike ECO mode, which feels sluggish and takes forever to get moving. On the dashboard, it's usually the default setting, so you don't need to constantly press buttons to switch, making it hassle-free. I've driven many brands, like Volkswagen or Toyota, where NORMAL mode paired with an automatic transmission delivers seamless gear shifts with almost no jerking. During daily commutes, it maintains fuel consumption at an optimal level, keeps engine temperature stable, and avoids aging issues. New drivers can quickly get the hang of it with this mode, while experienced drivers find it safe and reliable, especially during rainy days or sharp turns when traction is stronger. Overall, it's like a dependable friend, making driving effortless and worry-free.