What are the drive modes for the Toyota Mirai?
The Toyota Mirai offers three primary drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Power (often labeled Sport in some markets)—to balance efficiency and performance. These modes adjust throttle response, climate control, and energy management to suit driving conditions and priorities.
Overview of the drive modes
The following list summarizes the three main drive modes you’ll find in most Mirai models. The labeling can vary by market and model year, with Power sometimes shown as Sport, but the effects are generally the same: throttle response and energy use are adjusted to favor efficiency, balance, or performance.
- Eco mode: Prioritizes efficiency. It softens throttle response, slows acceleration, and optimizes climate-control and energy use to maximize range and fuel-cell efficiency.
- Normal mode: Balanced performance and efficiency. This is the default setting that provides comfortable acceleration with a practical sense of responsiveness for daily driving.
- Power mode (Sport in some markets): Increases throttle response for quicker acceleration and a more dynamic driving feel. This mode consumes more energy and can reduce overall efficiency.
In some markets or trims, Power is labeled as Sport. Regardless of the label, the intent is to give you a more immediate throttle response when needed, such as highway merging or passing.
How to use and where to find the drive mode selector
The drive mode selector is typically located on the center console near the gear selector or on the steering wheel control stalk in certain trims. To use it, simply rotate or press the selector to choose Eco for efficiency, Normal for everyday driving, or Power/Sport for enhanced acceleration. Climate-control settings and regenerative braking behavior may also adjust subtly with each mode.
Variations by model year and market
Most second-generation Mirai models (introduced around 2021) include Eco, Normal, and Power as standard options across major markets, though exact naming can differ (Power vs. Sport). Some markets may emphasize Eco for city driving or Power for performance-oriented driving. The core concept remains: each mode tunes throttle response and energy management to suit driving conditions.
Practical considerations for choosing a mode
For routine commuting, Normal mode provides a balanced experience. If you’re aiming to maximize range and efficiency—such as during city driving or longer trips—Eco is the prudent choice. If you need stronger acceleration for overtaking or quicker response in dynamic driving situations, Power/Sport is the appropriate option, with the trade-off of higher energy use.
Summary
The Toyota Mirai’s drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Power (sometimes labeled Sport)—offer a straightforward way to tailor the car’s performance and efficiency. Eco prioritizes efficiency, Normal offers a balanced feel, and Power delivers sharper throttle response for more spirited driving. Naming and exact effects can vary by market and model year, but the underlying concept remains consistent: choose the mode that best matches your driving goal and conditions.
