What does the S gear mean?

[ArcherAnn]

S gear is the sport mode of a car. Generally, automatic transmission vehicles have gear positions P, R, N, D, and S: ①P (Parking gear): When parking the car, the gear lever must be shifted into the P position. ②R (Reverse gear). ③N (Neutral gear): The N position is equivalent to neutral or used when towing. ④D (Drive gear): During normal driving, place the gear lever in the D position, and the car can automatically shift between forward gears. ⑤S gear is the sport mode of the car ("S" stands for "Sport"): In sport mode, the transmission can shift freely but with a delay, keeping the engine at high RPM for a longer time, allowing the car to move at high RPM in lower gears for an extended period, thereby achieving greater torque output and acceleration.

[MacCaden]

The S gear stands for Sport mode, which is quite common in automatic transmission vehicles. Having driven for several years, I particularly enjoy using it when I need a bit of excitement. When you shift from the regular D gear to S gear, the transmission control unit adjusts its programming to delay gear shifts, keeping the engine running at higher RPMs. This provides more immediate power output and stronger acceleration, making it perfect for moments like navigating mountain curves or overtaking on highways, where instant burst power is needed. However, I should remind you that using S gear noticeably increases engine noise and fuel consumption, making it unsuitable for daily commuting. In some modern vehicles, the S gear also integrates sport suspension or enhanced throttle response, offering a more agile driving experience overall. But don’t overuse it—save it for open roads to enjoy the thrill of driving.

[OliviaMarie]

As a regular commuter driving an automatic transmission car, I occasionally use the S gear. It stands for Sport mode, which means delaying gear shifts to enhance performance. For example, when encountering slow-moving vehicles on the highway, I can switch to S mode to overtake quickly. The simple operation is to shift the gear lever to the S position, after which the car responds more sensitively and accelerates faster. However, this increases fuel consumption and noise, and my wife complains about discomfort when riding along. Therefore, I only engage it when necessary, such as when starting on a steep slope, and quickly return to normal D gear afterward. Overall, it's quite practical, but don't make it a habit to save fuel and money. Driving safety comes first—ensure clear road conditions and unobstructed visibility when using S mode.

[LunaMarie]

Just started driving and didn't know about this. The S gear is an option in automatic transmission cars. After switching, the car becomes more aggressive with faster acceleration, and the engine sound gets louder. Experienced drivers say this is called sport mode, which delays gear shifts to keep the engine running at higher RPMs. I've tried it on straight roads and overtaking becomes easier, but you need to brake earlier and more steadily. Using it frequently consumes more fuel and is noisier. It's recommended for new drivers like me to mostly use D gear for better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride.