Which is faster for starting the 10th-generation Accord, S gear or L gear?
3 Answers
Starting with the S gear is faster for the 10th-generation Accord. S gear: The S gear delivers strong power and is the dedicated gear for sport mode. Generally, the D gear is sufficient for most situations, including highway driving, climbing slopes, and overtaking. The S gear provides very strong engine RPM, making it suitable for clearing engine carbon deposits, short-term overtaking, or climbing steep slopes. L gear: If the car is driving in congested traffic or other slow-moving conditions, keeping it in D gear may cause frequent gear shifts, leading to increased fuel consumption and reduced driving comfort. When encountering long downhill sections, shifting to L gear locks the transmission between 1st and 2nd gears, allowing engine braking to assist in deceleration.
As a car enthusiast who enjoys the thrill of acceleration, I've tested the 10th-generation Accord multiple times, and starting in S mode is definitely quicker. In Sport mode, it locks in lower gears, allowing the engine to rev high with super-responsive throttle input—step on it, and the car lunges forward with a strong sense of push-back force. In contrast, L mode is for low-speed driving, limiting torque output at launch, making it better suited for climbing hills or towing heavy loads, but acceleration feels sluggish. If you're aiming to jump ahead at a traffic light, S mode is the go-to—just don’t overuse it, as fuel consumption spikes and engine wear accelerates. I always switch to S mode when merging onto highways for quicker, more exciting acceleration. Overall, occasional S mode bursts are fine for daily driving, but frequent aggressive use may lead to premature transmission wear—regular cooling system checks are recommended.
I prioritize safety and stability when driving, and have experienced the S and L gears in the 10th-gen Accord. The S gear does provide quicker acceleration—step on the gas, and the car surges forward aggressively. The L gear, on the other hand, is much slower, with a gradual speed increase but more stable control, making it ideal for avoiding skids in traffic jams or rainy conditions. If we're talking about which gear offers faster acceleration, the S gear wins, but I don’t believe speed is the only goal, especially when driving with family. I often see beginners overusing the S gear, leading to higher fuel consumption and a greater risk of rear-end collisions. The L gear, conversely, reduces the likelihood of sudden braking during acceleration. My advice is to start with the standard gear to build confidence, then occasionally switch to the S gear for some fun. Driving safely comes first—racing for speed is less important than enjoying a smooth, stable ride.
