Mode Switch vs. "S" on the gear shift

[rmg471]

All,

When you put the gear shift into the "S" position, does that do the same thing as changing the mode switch to "Sport+"? I'm trying to figure out what affects what.

Thanks,

Ryan

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[doulos4jc]

What's this S you speak of? Mine only says 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, R

 

[aggieStang]

On the autos i think it just comes down to throttle sensitivity and traction control settings. The shift points can be attained with the paddles or just in s

 

[rmg471]

It's on the automatic. There's D and S. S holds the gears much longer, but it also feels like it changes throttle response. That's why I'm curious as to how it interacts with the mode switch. For instance, if you out the mode switch on sport plus, do you still need to gear shifter in S to get the most out of the car.

 

[SeventhWard]

When you put the gear shift into the "S" position, does that do the same thing as changing the mode switch to "Sport+"? I'm trying to figure out what affects what.

It's my understanding that the "S" position on the gear shift is strictly for the transmission's "Sport Mode", which will essential 'wake the car up' by giving you more performance - throttle response, shift points and a different exhaust note. "S" on the gear shift also activates the paddle shifters full-time. Hit a paddle to activate it and you're now in charge of shifting, although I'd rather stop and shift into 1st as opposed to just grabbing a gear in motion. The computer will still protect the motor but you get to decide when to shift, all the way to the limit and with auto rev-matching on the downshifts.

The toggle switch that unlocks "Sport+" does affect the transmission, probably just like "S" does, but it does a few more things. It changes up the steering feel and tones down the Traction Control and Stability Control to let you have a little more fun with the car, whereby "Track Mode" turns Traction Control and Stability Control completely off and will let you do whatever since you're not on a public road.

So - there you have it. If you're looking for a little more aggression from the automatic or if you want to shift for yourself, shift into "S". If you're looking to give the car sportier handling and steering but don't care to shift at all, use "Sport+".

My suggestion would be "D" for the daily driving duties and "S" & "Sport+" when having fun on twisty roads. Save "Track Mode" for the track.

-SeventhWard

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