What does the M gear in a manual-automatic transmission mean?

[StBrady]

M gear in a manual-automatic transmission refers to the manual shifting mode. Below is relevant information about the M gear in a manual-automatic transmission: Tips for using the M gear in a manual-automatic transmission: When overtaking, if you are in D gear, the vehicle speed will not increase rapidly even if you press the accelerator hard, and you can only shift up sequentially to overtake. However, switching to M gear makes a big difference. At this time, pressing the accelerator allows the vehicle to utilize the high torque of lower gears for instant acceleration, completing the overtaking action more quickly. When going down a long slope, if driving an automatic transmission, the vehicle speed will uncontrollably increase, requiring timely braking while coasting. But if you engage manual mode when going downhill and shift the gear lever backward to lower the gear, you can fully utilize engine braking to reduce speed. Upon reaching the bottom of the slope, you can quickly shift up or switch back to automatic mode to resume normal driving. Functions of the M gear in a manual-automatic transmission: M gear is the manual mode of a manual-automatic transmission or the simulated manual mode of a CVT transmission. It can also be used to shift up or down via paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

[McBrandon]

I've been driving for over a decade and found that the M mode in automatic transmission (manual control of gears) is super practical. For example, when encountering a steep hill that's hard to climb, just shift to M position and manually downshift - the car gains more power without stalling. When descending steep slopes where high speed might cause loss of control, manually shifting to first or second gear utilizes engine braking, reducing brake usage and protecting brake pads. On highways when wanting quick acceleration, manual downshifting provides rapid speed boost. This feature is also beginner-friendly - steering wheel paddle shifters make gear changes simple without complicated clutch operation like manual transmissions. Daily driving in D mode is carefree, but switching to M mode in poor road conditions or for sporty driving enhances control. Just remember not to mis-shift and damage the engine - upshift when RPM gets too high for safety. With practice, it brings great joy on mountain roads or curves while also saving some fuel.