What is the B mode on a Lexus CT?

The B mode on a Lexus CT is a dedicated deceleration and charging setting that uses engine braking and increased regenerative braking to slow the car and recover energy. It’s designed for downhill driving and energy recovery, not for faster acceleration.

In more detail, B mode engages enhanced engine braking and funnels more of the vehicle’s kinetic energy back into the hybrid battery as electricity when you lift off the accelerator. This can reduce brake wear on long descents and improve overall energy efficiency in appropriate driving conditions. It is not a performance mode and its benefits are most noticeable at lower to moderate speeds or on downhill terrain.

What B mode does

Here are the core effects and behaviors you’ll notice when B mode is active:

• Increases regenerative braking to convert more kinetic energy into stored electricity while coasting or descending.


• Adds engine braking, slowing the vehicle more aggressively than in standard D mode when you release the accelerator.


• Reduces reliance on the brake pedal and can lessen brake heat on long descents.


• Is intended for energy recovery and downhill control, rather than speeding up or quick overtakes.

In short, B mode is a deceleration and energy-recovery tool rather than a performance setting.

When to use B mode

Consider B mode in scenarios where controlled deceleration and energy recovery are advantageous:

• Downhill stretches or mountain descents where you want more deceleration without heavy braking.


• Coasting-heavy driving, such as city-to-suburb commutes, where extra regenerative braking can help recharge the battery.


• Long descents where you want to minimize brake wear and maintain steady deceleration.

Switching back to standard driving (D) is simple when you want normal acceleration and throttle response again.

How to engage and exit B mode

Engaging B mode on the CT is straightforward, though exact shifter layouts can vary by model year. The general process is:

• With the vehicle in Drive (D), shift the gear selector to B (usually located to the left of D on the lever).


• Release the accelerator to engage engine braking and regenerative braking; continue driving as normal and use the brakes if needed.


• To resume standard driving, shift the lever back to D. No extra pedal action is required to switch modes.

Note: If you’re unsure of your exact model year’s shifter layout, consult the owner’s manual for precise instructions.

Drive modes and how B fits in

Relation to Eco, EV, and Power

The Lexus CT offers several Drive Mode options (often including Eco, EV, and Power) to balance efficiency and performance. B is not a separate performance mode; it supplements those modes by altering how the hybrid system uses the engine and generator for braking and energy recovery. Eco prioritizes efficiency, EV enables electric-only operation under certain conditions, and Power sharpens throttle response. B works in conjunction with these by providing a controlled deceleration and charging pathway when you lift off the accelerator or descend hills.

Limitations and practical tips

Consider these caveats when using B mode:

• B mode is not a speed-increasing mode; its primary purpose is deceleration and energy recovery.


• Its effectiveness is greatest at lower to moderate speeds and on descents; at highway speeds the deceleration benefit is reduced.


• In slippery or low-traction conditions, rely on normal braking and drive modes as needed; B mode does not replace safe braking in such scenarios.

Overall, use B mode where downhill control and energy regeneration matter most, and return to D for regular driving whenever you don’t need extra deceleration or charging.

Summary

Summary: The B mode on a Lexus CT enhances engine braking and regenerative braking to slow the car and recharge the hybrid battery during deceleration, especially on descents. It is a utility feature aimed at energy efficiency and brake management rather than sporty performance. For most drivers, B mode is best used on hills or long descents and switched back to D when normal driving resumes. Always reference your specific model year manual for exact operation details.

When should I use B mode?

Use "B" gear (or "Brake" mode) in hybrid vehicles for strong engine braking, primarily when driving down steep hills to maintain speed and save your brakes. It can also be used for stop-and-go traffic and approaching red lights to improve energy recovery, which recharges the battery more efficiently than regular "D" (Drive) mode and reduces wear on the friction brakes.
 
This video explains what the 'B' gear is and when to use it: 1mFred Anderson ToyotaYouTube · Mar 26, 2021
When to use B gear

• On steep or long descents: Use "B" mode on downhills to help slow the car and maintain a steady speed without relying solely on the brake pedal, which can overheat. 
• In heavy traffic: In stop-and-go situations, "B" mode allows for smoother deceleration and increases regenerative braking, recharging the battery more effectively. 
• When approaching a stop: You can shift to "B" mode in advance of a red light or stop sign to slow the car gently and conserve brake life. 

Why it's beneficial

• Maximizes regenerative braking: By increasing engine drag, the system captures more kinetic energy to recharge the hybrid battery, which can improve efficiency and extend electric driving range. 
• Extends brake life: Using "B" mode for engine braking reduces the wear and tear on your traditional brake pads, leading to lower maintenance costs over time. 
• Offers better control: The driver experiences more resistance, which provides greater control, especially in situations where you need to slow down consistently without constant braking. 

You can watch this video to learn how to use Toyota Hybrid B gear: 54sPeter Finn the Car DoctorYouTube · Feb 4, 2024

What happens if I drive in B all the time?

Tip: B mode is not for everyday flat-road driving—it can make your hybrid slightly less fuel-efficient if used all the time, as it prioritises engine braking over coasting.

What is the B on the Lexus gear shift?

Position B introduces engine braking and can be used to help slow the vehicle, such as when descending a hill. But we do not recommend leaving the car in this mode for normal driving as it can use more fuel over time.

What is B mode in Lexus CT?

Situations. Not sure I'll ever hit that when I'm wanting to panic break. But that's what the mode is for. So normally you go down over there's drive simple as that you want to go to B mode.