What is the S gear on a Honda?
In Honda vehicles with automatic transmissions, the S gear typically stands for Sport mode. Activating S sharpens throttle response and keeps the engine revving higher for quicker acceleration, at the expense of fuel economy and smoothness.
What the S gear does in a Honda
Sport mode changes how the transmission behaves to provide a more responsive driving experience. In different Honda architectures, this can mean holding gears longer, raising the engine’s RPM before upshifts, or keeping the engine in a higher rev band to deliver quicker throttle response. The net effect is a more immediate feel when you press the accelerator, useful for merging, overtaking, or enjoying a more spirited drive. However, this usually comes with higher fuel consumption and louder engine noise compared with normal driving.
Here are the typical behaviors you can expect when you engage S mode.
- Faster throttle response: the engine reacts more quickly to accelerator input.
- Higher engine RPM: the engine stays in or near higher rev ranges before shifting or re-mapping in a CVT, producing more immediate power.
- Changed shift logic: in traditional automatics, the transmission may hold gears longer and delay upshifts; in CVTs, the control map keeps the engine in a more "sporty" range.
- Increased fuel consumption and potential noise: economy-focused driving benefits are reduced.
In short, S mode is a driving aid designed to deliver more punch when you need it, rather than a feature for everyday efficiency.
How to access the S gear on a Honda
Accessing S mode varies by model, but it is commonly found on the gear selector or via a dedicated drive-mode control. The following are common methods you may encounter in Honda vehicles with automatic transmissions.
- Move the shift lever from D to S: a simple shift to the S position on the selector.
- Use steering-wheel paddle shifters (where equipped): press the right or left paddle to enter sport/manual-style control.
- Engage a Sport or Sport-Drive mode via a drive-mode button or dial: some models route S behavior through a broader Sport setting.
Note that not all Hondas have a separate S position, and some rely on paddles or a dedicated sport drive mode to achieve the same effect. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact method on your model.
When to use S mode
Sport mode is best used when you want stronger acceleration or more responsive throttle, such as during highway merges, overtaking, or winding roads. It can enhance driving enjoyment on open stretches or when you need quicker corner-to-corner transitions. To maximize fuel economy and comfort, switch back to normal D (or your standard mode) during regular city driving or long highway cruising.
- Use for overtaking, merging, or passing on highways where you want quicker response.
- Use on winding roads or hills where sharper throttle control is beneficial.
- Avoid relying on S mode for everyday commuting if you prioritize fuel efficiency and quiet operation.
Engaging S mode is a trade-off: you gain responsiveness at the cost of efficiency and potentially noise. If you’re unsure whether your current trip benefits from sport tuning, switch modes and compare the feel and economy.
Summary
The S gear on many Hondas signifies Sport mode, a setting that prioritizes quicker throttle response and stronger acceleration by altering transmission behavior and engine revs. It is typically engaged via the shift lever, paddle shifters, or a sport drive-mode control, depending on the model. Use S mode when you need enhanced responsiveness, and switch back to normal driving for everyday efficiency and comfort. Always check your vehicle’s manual for model-specific instructions and limitations.
