What is the M gear?
2 Answers
M gear refers to the manual mode of an automatic transmission or the simulated manual mode of a CVT transmission. When the gear lever is shifted into M gear, gear shifting is manually controlled by the driver. Near the M gear, there are plus or minus symbols, where the plus sign represents upshifting and the minus sign represents downshifting, or gear changes can be made using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The purpose of the M gear is to enhance the driving pleasure of the vehicle and provide greater driving freedom. The number of gears in M mode depends on the number of gears in the automatic transmission. The indicated speed (e.g., 7-speed dual-clutch) represents the number of gears, with common automatic transmissions having 6-speed, 7-speed, or 8-speed options.
The M gear is actually the manual mode, which allows you to manually control the shifting timing on an automatic transmission car, making driving more engaging. I find it particularly useful when driving in the city, such as during stop-and-go traffic or on steep slopes, as controlling the RPM and power myself makes the ride smoother. When going downhill, shifting to a lower gear can use engine braking to assist with deceleration, reducing wear and tear—both safe and cost-effective. When climbing uphill, it avoids the jerky feeling caused by frequent automatic gear shifts. However, don’t overuse it—keeping the RPM too high for too long can damage the engine. Normally, I drive relaxed in D mode, but when encountering challenging road conditions, switching to M mode does the trick. Paired with paddle shifters or +/- buttons, once you get used to it, it feels like playing a racing game, enhancing both driving fun and confidence.
