When and How to Use the S Gear?
3 Answers
In situations such as overtaking or cleaning engine carbon deposits, the S gear can be used. Below are the relevant details: 1. Overtaking: When driving on the highway, since the car is already moving at a high speed, if the car has a small displacement, it may be difficult to quickly complete an overtaking maneuver. In this case, the S gear of the car can be utilized. The S gear is designed for aggressive driving, where the engine's RPM is higher, resulting in faster acceleration. Under these conditions, even if the car is already at high speed, it can still achieve rapid acceleration and overtaking in the shortest time possible. This also makes it safer for the driver. However, prolonged use of the S gear while driving can damage the engine. 2. Cleaning Engine Carbon Deposits: Compared to the D gear, the S gear delays upshifting, which keeps the engine's RPM higher and allows for quicker acceleration. At the same time, this also increases the car's fuel consumption.
I often enjoy using the S gear when driving, especially when overtaking on highways or climbing steep slopes. It instantly boosts power output, allowing the engine to rev higher and shift more aggressively. The operation is super simple: when the vehicle is in D gear, just gently push the gear lever to the S position—no need to press the brake—and the system will automatically adjust. Pressing the accelerator results in quicker car response, making acceleration and overtaking safer and more effective. I also use the S gear when taking curves on mountain roads to maintain stable traction and avoid speed loss on inclines. However, I generally avoid using it in city traffic jams because it increases fuel consumption by 10%-15%, and prolonged use can add stress to the transmission. For weekend outings, I occasionally switch to S gear for some extra driving fun, but I quickly return to D gear afterward to save on fuel and ensure the vehicle’s economy and health—after all, safety comes first, and affordability matters too.
As a daily urban driver, I don't use the S mode often, only activating it under special road conditions. For example, when taking family trips and encountering long steep slopes or needing to quickly respond to traffic hazards, such as accelerating to overtake while avoiding obstacles, switching to S mode makes the engine response more direct, providing powerful climbing without sluggishness, avoiding the risk of loss of control due to delayed gear shifts. Operationally, it's as simple as pushing the gear lever to the S position, and the vehicle can easily switch while driving, which is very convenient. However, during urban commuting or peak hours when picking up children, I avoid using S mode due to its high fuel consumption and reduced comfort, preferring D mode for smooth and fuel-efficient driving. I only briefly engage S mode when necessary and remember to switch back promptly, balancing power needs with economy.
