What does the S gear in an automatic transmission car mean?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission car's S gear stands for the sports mode of the vehicle. In sports mode, the transmission can freely switch gears, allowing the engine to output more power and achieve higher speeds. Situations where the S gear should not be used include: 1. Using the S gear when the car is just starting can have a counterproductive effect on speed increase; 2. It should not be used during high-speed cruising. An automatic transmission refers to a system where the driver does not need to manually shift gears; the vehicle automatically selects the appropriate gear based on the driving speed and traffic conditions. Its working principle is: using planetary gear mechanisms for gear shifting, which can automatically change gears based on the degree of throttle pedal and changes in vehicle speed.
I've been driving automatic transmission cars for over a decade, and the S gear is the sport mode that instantly unleashes more power from the vehicle. Once engaged, it keeps the engine RPM at a higher level, makes the throttle response more sensitive, prevents the gear from shifting up too easily during acceleration, and delivers an incredibly strong push-back sensation. Especially when overtaking on highways or mountain roads, activating S mode makes the car surge forward as if it's come alive, effortlessly passing through traffic. However, don't overuse this mode as higher RPMs significantly increase fuel consumption and engine load, leading to quicker wear. For daily commuting, I stick to D gear for economy and comfort; S gear serves as an occasional treat for some thrilling moments, but I'd advise beginners to gradually get accustomed to the throttle changes—safety first, as sudden acceleration might startle people.
