What is the S gear in automatic transmission?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission S gear is the sport mode of a car, which can be used during aggressive driving or overtaking. Almost every automatic transmission car has an S gear, and even if there is no S gear, there is a sport mode switch. There are three common types of automatic transmissions in cars: AT transmission, CVT transmission, and DCT transmission. DCT transmission is a relatively popular automatic transmission. This transmission is essentially a dual-clutch transmission, developed based on manual transmission. Its structure is similar to that of a manual transmission, except that the manual transmission has an additional set of clutch and shift control mechanism. One set of clutches in the dual-clutch transmission controls the odd-numbered gears, while the other set controls the even-numbered gears.
When I was learning to drive, I was curious about what the 'S' in an automatic transmission stood for. Later, I realized it's the Sport mode, which makes the car accelerate more aggressively. It's super useful for overtaking on highways or climbing steep hills, as the transmission delays upshifting to keep the RPM high, making the car feel more powerful. However, for daily driving, I recommend using the 'D' (Drive) mode, as prolonged use of 'S' mode can increase fuel consumption and may accelerate engine wear. Beginners should avoid overusing it until they're familiar with their car's behavior. Also, use it sparingly on slippery roads to avoid skidding. Remember, 'S' mode is a tool—used correctly, it enhances both fun and safety.
