What does the Honda Civic ECON button mean?

[Santana]

ECON stands 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: This mode can be used for aggressive driving. When Sport mode is activated, the throttle pedal becomes highly responsive, and the transmission delays shifting. The transmission will only upshift once the engine reaches the redline. In Sport mode, the engine speed is maintained at 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 power output is weakened. ECON can be understood as an abbreviation for 'economy.' In most situations, it is recommended to keep ECON mode enabled. Only when high torque output is needed (e.g., climbing hills) or when driving at very high speeds should ECON mode be turned off. Pressing the ECON button activates the low-carbon eco-driving mode. The ECU, engine, and transmission then operate in the most fuel-efficient manner, intelligently executing the driver’s intentions through rapid upshifts and smooth acceleration for optimal fuel economy. If the driver presses the accelerator 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 cannot function 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 car exceeds the economical speed range (typically between 60–90 km/h), ECON mode will not save fuel. The key to ECON mode is its computer-controlled operation while driving, making it effective. Therefore, it does not work during idle stops, or when the car is in N, P, or manual mode. When overcoming significant resistance, such as climbing a hill, the ECU prioritizes delivering sufficient power to drive the car, and ECON mode will not function in such cases.