Which gear to use for automatic transmission on highways?
2 Answers
For automatic transmission on highways, you can simply use the D (Drive) gear. If you want to overtake, you can temporarily switch to the S (Sport) gear. The D gear is the forward drive gear, and when the gear lever is set to D, the vehicle will automatically shift gears based on throttle opening and speed data. The S gear is the car's sport mode; when the gear lever is set to S, the transmission can shift freely, but the shift timing is delayed, allowing the car to operate at high speeds in lower gears for an extended period, thereby achieving greater torque output and acceleration. Automatic transmission means there is no need to manually shift gears while driving, with its advantage over manual transmission being easier driving. Additionally, automatic transmission includes continuously variable transmission (CVT), electronic paddle shifters, and electronic gear levers. There are three types of transmissions available in the market: manual transmission, automatic transmission, and semi-automatic transmission.
After driving automatic transmission cars for so many years, I usually just keep it in D gear (Drive) on highways—simple, effortless, and no overthinking. During long drives, D gear allows the transmission to automatically adjust gear ratios, maintaining steady speed and fuel efficiency, making the whole car feel smooth. I’ve tried manual mode before—the gear shifts are quick, sure, but on highways, it’s unnecessary hassle, especially during traffic jams or long slopes where it’s easy to get distracted. I’ve also noticed that if there’s an O/D button, it’s best not to mess with it—just leave it off to avoid high engine RPMs and noise. In short, for safety, I’d advise new drivers to first get comfortable with D gear’s rhythm before experimenting with fancy stuff. Getting home safely is what really matters.
