What is the S mode on a Honda Accord?

The S mode, short for Sport mode, is a drive setting on many Honda Accords that sharpens throttle response and adjusts the transmission’s behavior to deliver quicker, more spirited acceleration. It is available in models with automatic transmissions and is designed to make the car feel more responsive when you want a sportier drive.

What S mode does in the Accord

In S mode, the engine and transmission respond more aggressively to your inputs. This typically means the throttle mapping is sharpened, and the transmission holds gears longer or shifts at higher RPMs to keep the engine in a more responsive range. The goal is to provide quicker acceleration and a more dynamic driving feel without requiring any mechanical changes to the engine itself.

Below are the core effects you can expect when you engage S mode.

• Faster throttle response: Pedal input yields noticeably quicker on-road acceleration.


• Higher revs before upshifts: The engine stays in a power band longer, improving acceleration when you press hard.


• Longer gear holds (or simulated gearing in CVTs): The transmission delays upshifts to keep the engine in its peak power range.


• Sportier tuning feel: The overall driving feel can be more immediate and assertive, especially during quick maneuvers.

In practice, these changes create a more assertive driving experience during merging, passing, and spirited driving. The exact behavior can vary by engine and transmission type, year, and trim level.

How to engage S mode

Engaging S mode varies by model year and drivetrain, but most Honda Accords share a common pattern: you switch from the normal Drive mode to a Sport setting using either the shift lever or a dedicated Drive Mode control. When engaged, the instrument cluster typically displays SPORT to confirm that you’re in the mode.

Typical methods to activate S mode:

• Shift the transmission into the S position (often by moving the lever from D toward the S or by using a leftward toggle on the shift gate).


• Use a Drive Mode button or control on the center console to select Sport.


• Observe the SPORT indicator on the instrument cluster to confirm activation.


• To return to normal driving, shift back to D or Normal mode using the same control.

For precise instructions, consult your Honda Accord’s owner’s manual or the display in your vehicle, as the exact control layout can differ by year and trim.

S mode across Accord variants

Across the Accord lineup, Sport mode is designed to enhance responsiveness regardless of whether you have a 1.5-liter turbo with CVT or a 2.0-liter turbo paired with a modern automatic. The underlying principle is to provide a more dynamic throttle response and altered shift behavior, but the feel can differ slightly because of drivetrain tuning and transmission type.

What you should expect in everyday use

For daily driving, S mode is most noticeable when you need quick bursts of acceleration, such as merging onto a highway or overtaking. It is not a magic performance boost, and it typically results in higher engine revs and reduced fuel efficiency if you use it aggressively or for long periods.

Limitations and considerations

While S mode can make the car feel more responsive, there are trade-offs to be aware of.

• Increased fuel consumption compared with Normal mode, especially with frequent use.


• Not a substitute for skillful driving or proper safety practices.


• Effectiveness varies by drivetrain and model year; some users may notice only a modest difference.


• Repeated use in stop-and-go traffic can lead to faster brake wear and engine heat buildup if not managed carefully.

Understanding these considerations helps you decide when S mode is appropriate—typically in situations requiring quicker acceleration or more immediate throttle response, rather than for routine cruising.

Summary

S mode on a Honda Accord stands for Sport mode and is a driver-selectable setting that makes throttle response sharper and shifts behavior more aggressive. It can enhance acceleration for merging or passing, but it usually reduces fuel economy and may feel busier in daily driving. The exact feel depends on the engine and transmission in your specific model year and trim, so trying it out and consulting the manual will give you the best sense of its benefits and limits.

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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Can I shift to S while driving?

Yes, you can shift to S mode while driving, as most modern automatic transmissions are designed to handle this change electronically without causing damage. The computer will adjust the shift points and throttle response, but it is best to lift your foot off the gas pedal when shifting. 
How to shift to S mode

• From D to S: You can switch from Drive (D) to Sport (S) by simply moving the gear selector or pressing the "Sport" button on your console, depending on your vehicle's design. 
• Release the accelerator: It's best to let go of the gas pedal before you shift to ensure a smooth transition. 
• Automatic response: The vehicle's computer will handle the shift and may downshift one or two gears to put the car in a more responsive mode. 

Important considerations

• Transmission type: This applies to automatic transmissions. You should never shift to Reverse (R) or Park (P) while moving at speed, as this will cause major damage. 
• Slippery conditions: Be cautious when shifting to S mode on slippery roads, as a sudden downshift could cause the tires to lose traction. 
• Fuel economy: "S" mode is designed for performance, not fuel efficiency, so expect higher RPMs and increased fuel consumption. 

What does the sport mode do on a Honda Accord?

Sport mode in a Honda Accord adjusts the vehicle's powertrain, steering, and suspension to provide a more responsive and performance-oriented driving experience. It achieves this by sharpening throttle response, holding gears at higher RPMs, and making steering feel stiffer. On some models with adaptive dampers, the suspension also becomes firmer for flatter cornering. 
This video explains how to use sport mode in a Honda Accord: 58sMarin AcuraYouTube · Jul 25, 2020
How Sport Mode affects your Accord

• Throttle and engine: It makes the gas pedal more sensitive, so a smaller input results in more acceleration. The engine will also rev higher before shifting gears, keeping it in its powerband for more spirited driving. 
• Transmission: It holds the transmission in a lower gear for longer, which improves acceleration and engine response. On models with paddle shifters, it allows you to hold a selected gear indefinitely. 
• Steering: The steering becomes heavier and more responsive, providing a more direct feel and better feedback from the road. 
• Suspension: On models equipped with the Adaptive Damper System (typically the Touring trim), the suspension becomes firmer, reducing body roll and improving stability during cornering. 
• Other features: Active Sound Control might also be adjusted to create a more aggressive engine sound. On some models, the instrument cluster's ambient meter may also turn red, and a boost gauge might appear. 

How to use Sport Mode

• Activation: You can usually activate Sport Mode by pressing a button on the center console or by moving the gear selector to the "S" (Sport) position. A "SPORT" indicator will appear on the dashboard. 
• Deactivation: To return to a normal driving mode, simply press the button again or move the gear selector back to the "D" (Drive) position. 

What is the S gear on a Honda Accord?

The "S" gear in a Honda Accord is Sport Mode, which makes the car more responsive for performance driving. It achieves this by holding lower gears longer, increasing throttle response, and adjusting the transmission to keep the engine in a higher RPM range for more power. This is useful for situations like accelerating quickly, passing, or driving on hilly roads, but it is less fuel-efficient than regular "D" (Drive) mode. 
This video explains the sport mode in a 2019 Honda Accord Sport: 58sMarin AcuraYouTube · Jul 25, 2020
How "S" mode works

• Higher RPMs: "S" mode keeps the engine revving higher, so it's ready to deliver more power when you accelerate. 
• Sharper throttle response: It makes the engine and transmission more responsive to your input on the gas pedal. 
• Enhanced engine braking: It can help control speed on downhills by holding lower gears, which can reduce the need to use the brakes. 
• Automatic transmission changes: On many models with a traditional automatic transmission, "S" mode is a distinct gear setting. On some, it's integrated with a "Sport" button that changes multiple settings at once, including suspension and steering, not just the transmission. 
• Paddle shifters: If your Accord has paddle shifters, they can be used independently of "S" mode to manually select gears, though "S" mode will still affect the transmission's behavior even when paddles are used. 

When to use "S" mode
Merging onto a highway, Passing other vehicles, Driving on winding or hilly roads, and When you want a more engaging or "sporty" driving experience. 
You can watch this video to learn how to use the sport mode in a 2017 Honda Accord with CVT: 58sIt’s RC TengYouTube · Oct 17, 2019
When to use "D" mode
Normal city and highway driving and When prioritizing fuel efficiency. 
Shifting between "D" and "S" 

• You can safely shift between "D" and "S" while driving; it won't harm the transmission.