What is S and L gear in Honda CRV?

The S gear stands for Sport mode, and the L gear stands for Low. In many Honda CR-Vs with a CVT, S sharpens throttle response and alters shift behavior for a more athletic feel, while L provides increased engine braking and better low-speed control. Availability of L varies by model year and market, so check your owner's manual or the gear indicator on your vehicle.

S: Sport mode explained

Activating S changes how the CR-V responds to throttle input and how the CVT behaves. The following points describe what you can typically expect when Sport mode is engaged:

• Throttle response becomes quicker, making the vehicle feel more responsive off the line and during overtakes.


• The transmission tends to hold higher revs before upshifting, which can improve acceleration feel in dynamic driving scenarios.


• In CVT-equipped models, S may simulate a stepped-shear experience, giving a sportier, less “slippery” feel than the standard D range.


• Fuel economy can be slightly worse in S due to the more aggressive throttle mapping and higher engine speeds.

In practice, S is best used when you want quicker acceleration or more responsive throttle for merging, passing, or spirited driving. It’s typically not labeled as a dedicated fuel-economy mode.

L: Low gear (engine braking) and when to use it

When the L position is available on the CR-V’s shifter, it sets the transmission to a lower ratio for increased engine braking and greater control at low speeds. The typical uses are described below:

• Descending long, steep grades where you want to rely on engine braking rather than the brakes alone.


• Driving in snow, ice, mud, or other low-traction conditions where more controlled speed is beneficial.


• Crawling at very low speeds or when towing light loads in challenging terrain.


• Note that using L at highway speeds can reduce fuel efficiency and may feel sluggish; it is intended for low-speed control.

Use L when you need enhanced control at low speeds or you’re descending steep terrain. If your CR-V’s market or trim does not include an L position, this functionality isn’t available on your model.

Availability by model year and market

In many recent US-market CR-Vs with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the gear selector focuses on Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, and Sport (P R N D S). The explicit L position is not standard on all trims or generations and may appear only on older models or non-U.S. markets. Always verify with your owner's manual or the indicator on your vehicle to confirm what positions your transmission supports.

How to operate S and L on a CR-V

To engage Sport mode, shift from D to S (the exact method can vary by year and whether your model uses a physical lever or a button). Return to D to restore standard operation. If your model includes L, shift from D to L when you need low-range control, and return to D when normal driving resumes. Always follow the specific instructions in your owner’s manual for your exact year and trim.

Summary

S stands for Sport mode, which tightens throttle response and alters the transmission’s behavior for a more dynamic feel, with potential trade-offs in fuel economy. L stands for Low and provides increased engine braking and better low-speed control where available, useful on descents or in slippery conditions. Not every CR-V year or market includes an L position, so check your manual or the gear indicator on your vehicle to confirm its availability. For most day-to-day driving, D remains the default setting, with S reserved for occasions when extra responsiveness is desired.

What is the S and L gear in a Honda HRV?

And the L that stands for low what that does if you're in a low traction. Situation you can go into L right there. And it will stay in low gear. But it will give you all the power of the engine.

Can I switch from D to S while driving?

Yes, you can switch from D to S while driving in most modern cars, as it is an electronically controlled function that adjusts the transmission's shift points for better performance. However, you should not shift into reverse (R) or park (P) while moving, as this can cause major damage. 
How it works

• Shifting from D (Drive) to S (Sport) is an electronic command, not a mechanical one, and is handled by the car's computer. 
• When you switch to S mode, the car's computer adjusts the engine's throttle response and will hold the gears longer before shifting, giving you more power and performance. 
• It's generally safe to switch at any speed, but releasing the accelerator pedal briefly while shifting is recommended to ensure a smooth transition. 

This video explains what happens when you switch gears from D to S while driving: 48sInnoRativeYouTube · Oct 31, 2020
Things to remember

• Avoid R and P: Never shift into Reverse or Park while moving, as this can cause significant damage to the transmission. 
• Check your manual: It's always best to consult your owner's manual to confirm the specific capabilities and limitations of your vehicle's transmission. 
• Drive responsibly: Use S mode for situations where you need extra power, such as passing or driving up a steep hill, and be aware of the change in your car's performance and responsiveness. 

Is it okay to drive in S mode?

Yes, it's safe to switch from Driving mode to Sports mode while you're driving. Modern vehicles typically allow safe switching between drive & sport mode while the vehicle is in motion. Just remember to drive in sport mode responsibly.

When to use L and S gear?

Use S (Sport) gear for spirited driving, such as overtaking or navigating winding roads, as it holds gears longer for better acceleration and responsiveness. Use L (Low) gear for situations requiring maximum torque and control, like towing heavy loads or climbing and descending steep hills, to prevent the transmission from shifting up.
 
This video explains the function of S and L gears: 1mTA Automotive technologyYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
When to use S (Sport) gear

• Aggressive acceleration: The car will hold onto gears longer, keeping the engine in its powerband for quicker acceleration. 
• Winding roads: Provides better responsiveness and makes it easier to accelerate out of corners. 
• Towing or going uphill: In some vehicles, "S" can also be helpful for extra power on inclines, though "L" is often better for steep grades. 
• Note: Using "S" mode generally decreases fuel efficiency due to higher engine RPMs. 

You can watch this video to learn how to use S gear: 1mFM DRIVING SCHOOLYouTube · Jun 24, 2022
When to use L (Low) gear

• Steep hills: Use "L" to help the car climb steep inclines without the transmission shifting up, providing more power and preventing the engine from stalling. 
• Long descents: Using "L" for engine braking on steep downhill stretches helps control speed and reduces wear on your brakes. 
• Towing: It prevents the transmission from constantly shifting up and down while pulling a heavy load, providing more consistent torque and reducing strain on the gearbox. 
• Slippery conditions: Offers extra control on slippery surfaces like ice or mud.