What does the S button do in a Ford Fusion?

The S button engages Sport mode in many Ford Fusion models, delivering quicker throttle response and sportier shifting without boosting horsepower.

In practice, Sport mode adjusts the engine management and transmission behavior to prioritize performance: throttle response is sharper, shift points may be altered to keep the engine in a higher RPM range, and steering feel can become heavier in some trims. The exact effects vary by model year and trim, and some versions allow manual gear changes with paddle shifters or via the gear selector while in Sport mode.

What changes in Sport mode

Sport mode changes the way the engine and transmission respond to your input, typically in two main areas:

Throttle and engine response

• Quicker throttle response, with less delay between pedal input and engine power


• Engine torque kept available at higher RPMs for stronger acceleration


• In some models, auto start-stop may be deprioritized or effectively disabled for immediate power

These characteristics together give a more eager feeling compared with normal drive modes.

Shifts and gearing

• Shift points are adjusted to hold gears longer and downshift more readily for power on demand


• Manual shifting is often available via paddle shifters or the gear lever when in Sport mode


• Gear changes can feel sportier, with quicker upshifts and more pronounced downshifts

These adjustments help the engine stay in its power band and provide quicker, more direct acceleration.

When to use Sport mode

Sport mode is intended for spirited driving rather than fuel economy or routine commuting. Use it in the following situations:

• On winding roads or when you want quicker acceleration for merging or overtaking


• When you want tighter steering feel and more immediate throttle response for a dynamic drive


• During highway driving when you need stronger response during passing or climbing hills


• When manual gear control is preferred and the vehicle supports paddle shifters

In normal traffic or slippery conditions, you’ll likely get smoother, more efficient performance in Drive/Normal mode, so switch back as needed.

Availability, cautions, and tips

Not every Ford Fusion year or trim includes Sport mode or the same control layout. If you don’t see an S position on your shifter or a dedicated Sport button, your model may not support it, or it may be labeled differently. Refer to your owner's manual for exact operation for your year and trim.

• Sport mode does not increase horsepower; it redistributes throttle and shifts for responsiveness


• Fuel economy may worsen in Sport mode due to higher RPM operation


• Sport mode can be less stable on snow, ice, or wet surfaces; exercise caution in adverse conditions


• In some cars, Sport mode may temporarily disable auto start-stop to maximize responsiveness

The effect of Sport mode is design-dependent, so experiences can vary between model years and trims.

Summary

The S button on a Ford Fusion toggles Sport mode to improve responsiveness by adjusting throttle mapping and shift behavior. It is not a horsepower boost and tends to reduce fuel economy. Use it for more immediate acceleration and manual-like shifting when conditions permit, and switch back to Normal/Drive for everyday driving and efficiency. Always check your specific model year’s manual to see exactly how Sport mode operates in your Fusion.

Is S gear for snow or ice?

S is for Standard or normal driving conditions and zero is for Winter or driving in Winter conditions. It adjusts the gear change conditions to match road conditions.

When should I use S mode on my car?

Use sport mode for more responsive acceleration, like merging onto highways or overtaking, and for spirited driving on winding roads, where it enhances handling and control. Avoid using sport mode during everyday commuting in heavy traffic or on long highway drives, as it negatively impacts fuel economy and can feel jerky, and be cautious using it in wet or icy conditions. 
When to use sport mode

• Merging onto the highway: Quicker throttle response and holding gears longer allow for safer and smoother acceleration. 
• Winding roads: Sharper handling and more precise control make driving on twisty backroads more engaging. 
• Overtaking: The improved responsiveness provides more confident acceleration when passing other vehicles. 
• Uphill climbs: Sport mode can provide the power needed to maintain speed on inclines. 
• When you want a more engaging experience: If you simply feel like having a more dynamic and fun drive, sport mode can make even a routine commute more exciting. 
• On a track: For maximum performance in a safe, controlled environment, sport mode is ideal. 

When to avoid sport mode

• Everyday commuting: Stop-and-go traffic can feel jerky and uncomfortable in sport mode. 
• Long highway drives: Fuel economy is significantly worse in sport mode, and there is little performance benefit from holding gears at a constant speed. 
• In slippery conditions: The sharper throttle response can make it easier to lose traction on wet, icy, or snowy roads. 
• When fuel efficiency is a priority: Sport mode prioritizes performance over gas mileage by keeping the engine at higher RPMs and holding gears longer. 

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What does the S mean on a Ford Fusion?

The "S" on a Ford Fusion means Sport mode, which is an option on the gear selector that changes the vehicle's performance characteristics for a more responsive driving experience. This mode adjusts the transmission to hold gears longer and at higher RPMs, which provides quicker acceleration and sharper handling.
 

• For a more responsive drive: Sport mode can improve acceleration and make the throttle more sensitive to input. 
• For enhanced engine braking: When driving downhill, Sport mode can downshift to the appropriate gear to help control speed, which is useful in hilly or mountainous areas. 
• For manual-style shifting: Many models with Sport mode also have SelectShift Paddles on the steering wheel, allowing you to manually upshift or downshift gears while in Sport mode. 
• When to use it: Sport mode is ideal for situations where you want more performance, such as on highways, winding roads, or when you want more control. It is safe to shift between Drive (D) and Sport (S) while driving. 
• Impact on fuel economy: Using Sport mode may negatively impact fuel economy due to its higher performance tuning, so it is not recommended for everyday driving in heavy traffic. 

Should I drive on S or D?

Sport mode is good for highway driving, twisty roads, & uphill driving where you want to accelerate faster & have better control. Shifting between Drive (D) & Sport (S) modes is safe to do while driving.