What does the small S next to the D gear in an automatic transmission mean?

[HaleyMarie]

The small S stands for Sport, which is the abbreviation for the sport mode. When this gear is engaged, torque increases, engine power also increases, and fuel consumption will be higher compared to the D gear. Below is some relevant information about automatic transmissions: 1. Working principle: Automatic transmissions use planetary gear mechanisms to shift gears. They can automatically change gears based on the degree of throttle pedal pressure and changes in vehicle speed. The driver only needs to control the speed by operating the accelerator pedal. 2. Classification of automatic transmissions: Hydraulic automatic transmissions, hydrostatic automatic transmissions, electric automatic transmissions, stepped mechanical automatic transmissions, and continuously variable mechanical automatic transmissions, among which hydraulic automatic transmissions are the most common. 3. Common misconceptions: Pushing the car to start the engine. For cars equipped with automatic transmissions and three-way catalytic converters, if the battery is dead and the engine cannot be started, pushing the car or towing it to start will not only fail to transfer power to the engine but may also damage the three-way catalytic converter.

[LorenzoRose]

That's a very practical design called Sport Mode, usually marked with a small 'S' next to the D gear. I often switch to this gear when driving on highways—the car's power becomes noticeably stronger, making overtaking particularly effortless. The principle is quite simple: it intentionally delays gear shifts to keep the engine at higher RPMs, resulting in more responsive throttle input. However, I should remind you that prolonged use of this mode drains the fuel gauge alarmingly fast, especially in city traffic—better switch back to regular D gear. Once, I used S mode for half an hour on mountain roads, and the fuel cost turned out to be nearly one-fifth higher than usual. For daily commuting, stick to D gear unless you want to experience that exhilarating acceleration or need to overtake in a hurry. By the way, many cars with paddle shifters also allow manual gear changes in S mode—that feeling of perfect harmony between driver and machine is truly addictive.

[VonNova]

This 'S' badge stands for Sport mode, which I've frequently used over my decade of driving automatics. It alters the transmission shift strategy—unlike regular Drive (D) mode that eagerly upshifts, it keeps engine RPM above 3,000 for greater torque output. Particularly ideal for attacking mountain curves or situations demanding instant burst power, like merging on beltways where gaining half a second vastly improves safety. Remember to switch back to D mode afterward though, or fuel consumption will spike noticeably. I find German cars' Sport modes tuned aggressively—even 1/3 throttle input delivers full-throttle response—while Japanese models are comparatively milder. Novice drivers should practice in open areas first to acclimate to the sharpened throttle sensitivity before regular use.

[Franklin]

This is actually a hidden Easter egg in the car, functioning like a sport mode switch. I usually use D gear when picking up the kids, but occasionally when working late with fewer cars on the road, I love switching to S gear for some fun. The moment you step on the gas, the revs instantly jump to four or five thousand, and the engine roars with an exhilarating buzz, making it feel like a completely different car. The principle is that the computer delays gear shifts slightly, delivering more aggressive power. Last month when helping a friend move, the S gear was especially useful when climbing hills with the trunk packed full of boxes. But a reminder to my fellow drivers: as thrilling as it is, the fuel gauge drops about one-third faster than usual, so it's more economical to switch back to regular gear for weekend shopping or commuting. Also, never use it in rainy weather—tires can easily lose traction.