What does the VW ECON button mean?

[SanCaleb]

ECON is the switch for the car's fuel-saving mode, which can be turned on or off with this button. Modern cars generally offer three driving modes to choose from: fuel-saving mode, comfort mode, and sport mode. Below is information about these three modes: Fuel-saving mode: When the car is in this mode, fuel consumption is relatively low. The throttle pedal sensitivity decreases, and the transmission shifts up more aggressively. Comfort mode: This mode is considered a normal operating mode for the car. In this mode, the throttle pedal response is more sensitive than in fuel-saving mode. Sport mode: This mode can be used during aggressive driving. When sport mode is activated, the throttle pedal response becomes very sensitive, and the transmission delays shifting. The transmission will only upshift when the engine speed reaches the redline. After switching to sport mode, the engine speed is maintained at around 3,000 RPM, ensuring better power response during acceleration. When the car enters ECON mode, it achieves reduced fuel consumption and energy savings, but the car's power output weakens. ECON can be understood as an abbreviation for "economy." In most cases, it is recommended to keep the ECON mode on. Only when high torque output is needed (such as when climbing a hill) or when driving at very high speeds should the ECON mode be turned off. Pressing the ECON button activates the car's low-carbon, eco-friendly driving mode. The ECU, engine, and transmission then operate in the most fuel-efficient way, intelligently executing the driver's intentions through quick upshifts and smooth acceleration to achieve optimal fuel economy. When the driver presses the throttle pedal deeply, the ECON system effectively controls the opening and closing of the intake valves to ensure smooth engine operation and energy savings. Although the ECON mode is simple and effective, it cannot operate under certain conditions: When the car's speed exceeds 120 km/h, priority is given to maintaining speed, and the fuel-saving mode automatically deactivates. This means that if the car exceeds the economical speed range (usually between 60-90 km/h), the ECON mode will not save fuel. The key to the ECON mode is that it operates independently via the car's computer while driving. Therefore, it does not function when idling, parked, or in N, P, or manual mode. When overcoming significant resistance, such as when climbing a hill, the ECU prioritizes providing sufficient power to drive the car, and the ECON mode will not work in such cases.