Anyone know the technical reason for why the RDX drives better in snow while in S mode vs D mode? In heavy snowfall especially on the highway I put it in S mode and find I have better control.

 

Because S Mode = Snow Mode.

Actually, S mode keeps the transmission in lower gears. This provides engine braking when going down hill, and also better throttle response when driving on the highway. When on curves or making a turn, the engine braking and torque helps slow you down and maintain grip. Applying brakes would shift the load and unbalance the chassis.

 

Thanks! That sounds like a reasonable explanation. I didn't bother to get snow tires though I know they do make a difference in snow. The S mode makes a huge difference in snow and going up steep hills. So glad it's available in the RDX

 

A trick for reducing wheel-spin when starting up from a stop, is to place the gear selector in the "S" mode, and then pull the "+" paddle towards you. This will lock the transmission in 2nd gear. With the reduced torque going to the tires they are less likely to lose traction as they would starting in first gear.

 

Running in S on the highway keeps You in fifth gear.Won't go into sixth.Maybe good for snow, but bad for mileage.

 

I thought S was for sports mode.

 

I love driving the RDX in S mode too. The MDX in S mode isn't as nice due to more number of gears.

Mileage is indeed worse in S mode though.

 

it was a funny, specifically for rockyboy's situation of snow.
get it?

 

In winter it is Snow mode, in Summer it is Summer mode

 

I thought it stood for Sequential...?