What is the optimal speed to use the S gear?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission's S gear is actually short for Sport gear, which is a sport mode that emphasizes power output. Due to its strong power, the S gear is generally used when overtaking or climbing hills. After completing the action, it is switched back to the more economical D gear, as from a fuel consumption perspective, the S gear mode consumes more fuel than the normal mode due to increased fuel injection at high RPMs. Below is an introduction to automatic transmission gears and usage precautions: 1. P gear: Parking gear. When the vehicle is completely stationary, press the unlock button at the front of the shift lever to engage the P gear. 2. R gear: Reverse gear. When the vehicle is completely stationary, press the brake pedal, press the unlock button at the front of the shift lever, engage the R gear, and after releasing the brake pedal, slowly press the accelerator to move the vehicle backward. 3. N gear: Neutral gear. The shift lever can be directly moved from R or D gear to N gear. When moving the shift lever out of N gear, the brake pedal must be pressed. 4. D gear: Drive gear. The shift lever can be directly moved from N gear to D gear. This gear is generally used when the vehicle is moving forward, and the system will automatically shift gears based on engine load and vehicle speed.
As an urban commuter, I often use the S gear when I need quick acceleration, such as starting at traffic lights or overtaking on the highway. Generally, the optimal speed range is between 50-100 km/h, where switching to S gear increases the engine RPM, delivering a more aggressive response that feels exhilarating. I remember last month on the highway, I used S gear at 80 km/h to overtake a truck—stepping on the accelerator made the car surge forward, ensuring a super-safe maneuver. However, this mode consumes more fuel, so I switch back to the regular D gear in congested areas to save fuel. The S gear isn’t suitable for low-speed abuse, as it can damage the transmission, so I only engage it when necessary for acceleration. For long-term use, regular maintenance is crucial—check the transmission fluid every 10,000 km to ensure the car’s potential isn’t wasted.