What does the S gear in Accord mean?
3 Answers
S gear stands for Sport mode. Here is some information about the S gear in cars: 1. Many automatic transmission cars are equipped with an S gear, and some high-end models of A-class cars also feature an S gear design. 2. In Sport mode, the transmission can shift freely, but the timing of gear shifts is delayed, allowing the engine to maintain high RPM for a longer period. This enables the car to operate at lower gears with higher RPM for extended durations, resulting in greater torque output and acceleration. 3. While driving, you can directly push the gear lever into the "S" position. It is typically used for climbing slopes and quick overtaking.
When driving my Accord, I often use the S gear, which is actually the Sport mode. It delays gear shifts, keeps the engine RPM higher, accelerates faster with more responsive performance, making it suitable for overtaking or climbing hills. For normal driving, using D gear saves fuel, while S gear sacrifices fuel efficiency for driving pleasure. On the Accord's CVT transmission, the S gear simulates gear shifts, making the acceleration feel more pronounced. It's fine to use occasionally in the city, but switching to S on mountain roads or during highway lane changes significantly improves handling. However, don't use it all the time, as it can increase carbon buildup and engine wear. Prolonged high RPMs can harm the car and burn more fuel. During maintenance, the technician advised me to only engage it when necessary, putting safety first.
I've been driving my Accord for several years and often try the S mode, which makes the car feel like a beast with its speed. When shifted to S mode, stepping on the accelerator gives an instant boost, making it easy to overtake others from a red light. However, the fuel gauge drops quickly, consuming significantly more fuel than D mode, so I usually use D mode for my daily commute. S mode is suitable for high spirits or when in a hurry, especially effective for overtaking on highways. The S mode in the Accord is designed for a sporty feel—responsive but not to be abused. When friends ask, I describe it as temporarily turning the car into a sports mode—fun but hard on the wallet. Remember to drive safely; stick to D mode where speeding isn't appropriate.
