
The Elantra's ECO mode can be controlled via the DRIVE MODE button located on the right side of the steering wheel, which allows switching the vehicle's driving modes and also serves as the ECO switch. Below is an introduction to ECO: 1. The name ECO is derived from the synthesis of Ecology, Conservation, and Optimization. 2. Since its inception, it has been designed with the fundamental principles of technology, environmental protection, and economy in mind. These three attributes have become the enduring qualities pursued by the ECO intelligent engine family series. Here are the main principles of the ECO mode: 1. Primarily, during vehicle movement, it comprehensively evaluates and analyzes factors affecting fuel consumption, such as automatic transmission gear position, engine speed, vehicle speed, braking, and transmission oil temperature. The ECU control unit calculates the optimal fuel quantity to supply the engine for operation, effectively reducing fuel consumption compared to normal driving modes. 2. It controls the engine speed through appropriate gear selection to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. The ECO mode mainly functions during vehicle movement through computer-controlled operations. Therefore, it does not operate during idle stops, in N or P gear positions, or in manual mode.

As a veteran driver with five years of experience driving the Verna, I've found that turning off the ECO mode is actually quite simple. Just look for the row of buttons behind the steering wheel on the dashboard, and you'll find a green button labeled 'ECO'. Press it, and when the green ECO light on the dashboard goes off, it means the function is turned off. Honestly, this feature is great for city traffic jams but can be a hassle on the highway. After turning it off, the throttle response becomes noticeably more direct. If I encounter a long slope or need to make an emergency overtake, I definitely turn it off right away. Keeping it on usually saves a bit of fuel, but don't obsess over the changes in fuel consumption—driving comfortably is what matters most. If you can't find the button, just check the owner's manual; it usually has detailed diagrams.

Just helped a friend adjust his Verna ECO last week. Look carefully on the combination switch on the left side of the steering wheel - there's a dedicated ECO mode button. Press it until the green indicator on the dashboard disappears. However, it's worth noting that ECO mode makes a significant difference - throttle response becomes sluggish, and transmission shifts more conservatively. Especially when using AC, the power becomes noticeably insufficient. I usually keep ECO turned off during daily commutes, otherwise climbing slopes feels too strenuous. Hyundai's design is quite interesting - they separated auto start-stop and ECO functions, as these two features operate on different control logics.

The most annoying thing about driving the Elantra is the ECO mode automatically activating. To turn it off is simple: find the button with the small tree icon among the row of buttons on the left side of the steering wheel, press it, and the green light on the dashboard will go off. However, be aware that after turning it off, fuel consumption will increase by about 0.5 liters, but the power improvement is very noticeable. I've specifically tested it - ECO mode is tolerable when driving under 60 km/h in the city, but it feels particularly sluggish on expressways. New drivers should note that if the car suddenly feels very sluggish, it's basically the ECO mode causing trouble; turn it off and the car will immediately feel more responsive. Actually, after driving the car for three years, I've never used this function again.


