What is the S gear in automatic transmission vehicles?
3 Answers
Automatic transmission vehicles' S gear stands for Sport mode. When shifting to the S gear, the transmission can shift freely but with delayed shift timing, keeping the engine at higher RPMs for an extended period. This allows the car to maintain lower gears at higher speeds for longer durations, resulting in greater torque output and acceleration. Due to its powerful performance, the S gear is typically used during overtaking or climbing hills. After completing these maneuvers, drivers usually switch back to the more economical D gear, as the S mode consumes more fuel due to increased fuel injection at higher RPMs. The S gear only delays upshifting without altering other operational aspects, inevitably increasing the transmission's load and temperature in the short term, which in turn accelerates wear and tear.
I've been driving an automatic transmission car for several years, and the S mode stands for Sport mode, specifically designed for when you want faster acceleration. Normally, driving in D mode is smooth and ideal for city commuting, saving fuel and hassle. But when it's time to overtake or climb a steep hill, switching to S mode instantly makes the car feel more spirited—it holds higher RPMs before shifting, delivering stronger and more forceful acceleration. Once on the highway, a slow-moving truck ahead was crawling, so I shifted to S mode, pressed the throttle, and overtook it much more decisively than in D mode. However, frequent use increases fuel consumption significantly and puts more strain on the engine, so it's best reserved for when you really need that extra power. S mode also makes the car sound more aggressive, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of driving excitement—just remember to stay safe and avoid speeding. Overall, it's designed for dynamic driving, keeping your car from feeling too tame all the time.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I love using the S mode, which stands for Sport mode. Engaging it keeps the engine RPM consistently high, delays gear shifts, and delivers more direct power output. It's especially useful in mountainous areas or on highways when instant burst power is needed, such as climbing hills or performing quick overtakes—the car responds super sensitively, with immediate reaction upon pressing the accelerator. Compared to the regular D mode, which focuses more on economy and comfort, S mode emphasizes performance. However, it consumes 10% to 20% more fuel than D mode, and the engine noise is louder. Prolonged use can affect engine lifespan. I recommend using it only in specific scenarios to enjoy that exhilarating feeling, but don't make it a daily habit. Remember, while it's cool, it should be used in moderation.
