What is the difference between D and S in Honda Odyssey?
The D mode stands for Drive and is the standard setting for everyday driving, while the S mode stands for Sport and provides a quicker, more responsive feel by altering throttle response and transmission behavior. In short, D is for smooth, efficient cruising; S is for a sharper, punchier acceleration when needed.
In this article, we’ll break down what each mode does, how it changes the Odyssey’s performance and economy, when to use them, and any year-by-year considerations you should know about. The goal is to help you decide which setting to use in different driving situations and understand what the indicator on your shifter is telling you.
What each mode does in practice
The two drive modes adjust how the transmission and engine respond to your inputs. D is the default, prioritizing smooth shifts and fuel efficiency. S enhances throttle sensitivity and changes the transmission’s shift logic to maintain higher engine speeds for quicker acceleration. The exact feel can vary slightly by year and whether your Odyssey uses a traditional automatic or a CVT, but the general principle holds across generations.
Key differences at a glance:
- Throttle response: D is smooth and progressive; S is more responsive and eager to rev higher.
- Transmission behavior: D aims for comfortable shifts and fuel economy; S holds the engine in a higher RPM range and uses sportier shift logic (or simulated gears in CVTs).
- Acceleration feel: D yields relaxed acceleration; S delivers quicker, sharper acceleration for overtaking or merging.
- Fuel economy: D typically offers better fuel economy; S generally reduces efficiency due to higher engine speeds.
In practice, most daily driving will feel more relaxed and economical in D, while S is useful when you need a quick response, such as during highway merging or passing maneuvers.
When to use D versus S
Choosing between D and S depends on your driving context. Use D for ordinary commuting, long highway drives, and situations where you value smoothness and efficiency. Switch to S when you want more immediate response, such as overtaking, climbing grades, or joining fast-moving traffic.
- Daily driving and highway cruising: D for comfort and economy.
- Overtaking, merging, or steep grades: S for quicker response and stronger acceleration.
- Fuel economy concerns or long trips: D is typically the better default choice.
Keep in mind that the exact feel of S can vary by model year and transmission type. If you notice a very abrupt or unusual response, consult the owner's manual for your specific Odyssey generation to confirm how S operates in your vehicle.
Notes by model year and transmission type
The Odyssey has evolved across generations. In most model years, D and S are available as selectable modes on the automatic transmission shifter, with S providing sportier throttle mapping and RPM behavior. Some generations use a traditional automatic, while others feature a version of the system that simulates gearing in a CVT. Always refer to your year’s manual for precise behavior, including any nuances like transient rev limits or the availability of a dedicated Sport button or paddles.
As a general rule, Sport (S) mode is designed to deliver a more aggressive feel without transforming the vehicle into a manual or performance-first setup. It’s designed for moments when you want quicker response rather than for steady, fuel-efficient cruising. If in doubt, revert to D for routine driving and reserve S for the situations described above.
Switching between D and S
To switch modes, move the gear selector from D to S (or vice versa) according to your model year’s shifter layout. Some trims use a dedicated S position on the shifter, while others may present S as a selectable step within the automatic gear gate. In most vehicles, you can switch on the fly while the vehicle is moving, but you should consult your owner’s manual for any cautions about vehicle speed or system limitations when changing modes.
If your Odyssey includes any additional drive modes or paddle shifters, the manual will specify how those interact with standard D and S driving modes. Always ensure you’re in the recommended mode for the driving condition to maximize safety and performance.
Summary
The D mode provides smooth, efficient driving ideal for everyday use, while the S mode offers a sportier drive with quicker throttle response and higher RPM behavior. The trade-off for S is typically reduced fuel economy and a more aggressive feel that may be less comfortable on long, steady drives. Use D for routine, economical driving and switch to S when you need enhanced acceleration or more responsive handling, especially on highways or in overtaking situations. Always check your year-specific manual for exact behavior, as the implementation of D and S can vary slightly between generations of the Honda Odyssey.
Bottom line
For most Odyssey owners, D is the default you’ll rely on for daily use, while S is a useful tool for moments when you want a quicker, more assertive response. Understanding these modes helps you tailor the driving experience to your needs and helps you maximize safety and efficiency on the road.
