What is the S on the Honda Fit gear shift?
The "S" is the Sport mode on many Honda Fit models. It enhances throttle response and holds higher engine speeds for quicker acceleration.
In most Honda Fit variants equipped with an automatic or CVT, the shift gate includes P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive) and S (Sport). Engaging S switches the transmission into a sport-oriented setting that makes the car feel more responsive, though it can reduce fuel efficiency. Availability and exact behavior can vary by model year and trim.
What Sport mode does in practice
Below is a typical summary of how Sport mode affects driving dynamics on a CVT or automatic Honda Fit. The specifics can vary by generation, so check your owner's manual for the exact behavior of your car.
Before listing, note that sport mode is designed to shift- and throttle-map differently to produce quicker response without being a manual gear. The general effects are as follows:
- Engine revs rise higher before upshifts, keeping power available for rapid acceleration.
- Throttle response becomes more immediate, reducing lag when you press the accelerator.
- Shifts (or simulated CVT gear steps) are held longer, allowing higher speeds before shifting or continuing in a power band.
- Fuel economy may decrease, especially with aggressive throttle use or frequent sport-mode operation.
These changes give a more dynamic feel during merging, passing, or spirited driving, at the cost of greater fuel use and potential for a firmer ride depending on road conditions.
How to engage and when to use
Here’s how to use the S mode on a typical Honda Fit and the situations where it can be advantageous.
- With the vehicle running, move the gear lever from D to S (or from D into S) depending on your model year; confirm the indicator shows Sport mode.
- Use S when you need quicker throttle response for overtaking, merging onto highways, or driving on winding roads.
- Return to D for normal, more economical driving once you don’t need the sportier response.
Some trims may show an indicator on the instrument cluster when S is active. If in doubt, consult the owner’s manual for your specific year and trim.
Variants by generation and trim
Different generations of the Honda Fit (Jazz) and different trims may label or implement Sport mode slightly differently. Here is a general guide to what you might see.
- Earlier Fit models often used S as a straightforward sport setting on automatic transmissions.
- Newer Earth Dreams CVTs typically present S as a distinct position on the shifter gate, with a sportier throttle and shift logic.
- Some trims may show an indicator in the instrument cluster when S is active, and some models may incorporate a more explicit “Sport” drive program in the infotainment or dash menus.
For precise operation details—such as whether your model uses a dedicated S button, a gate, or a paddle-like interface—refer to your vehicle’s manual or a Honda dealer for your exact year and trim.
Summary
In short, the S on the Honda Fit gear shift stands for Sport mode. It adjusts throttle response and shift behavior to deliver a more engaging, responsive drive, at the expense of peak fuel efficiency. It’s best used when you want quicker acceleration or more spirited driving, and then returned to normal D for everyday commuting.
