Has anyone compared the different driving modes for mileage? I asked the dealer who said use comfort mode but I'll know that's based on. Before purchasing the MDX hybrid I had a Toyota Prius plug-in as my round-trip commute is only 5 miles. Now with the MDX I'm looking at a 230 mile round-trip for consulting work once a week. I've already noticed that mileage improves with higher octane gas. Is that everyone else's conclusion? Any other suggestions for maximizing mileage? Thank you.

 

I just keep my MDX hybrid in Sport mode. Sport+ mode is the only mode I can think of that would effect mpgs since that mode engages both gas/electric power for max power and holds the 7DCT in a higher gear longer. I'm not 100% sure; but, I think the different IDS modes only change steering, active dampers, and shift points for the 7DCT. I don't think the MDX hybrid would engage EV mode more in Comfort mode compared to Sport mode?

Depending on hwy speeds, you will mostly using the gas engine with occasional power added from electric motors for power; not, EV mode. Interstate speeds are 75-80 mph in the southwest and I usually drive 5-10 mph above that. Traveling at 5000-8500 feet in hilly to mountainous terrain. I'm mostly fwd mode according to the power distribution display on navi screen and see around 24-25 mpg at those speeds.

The Sport Hybrid advantage is in city driving and canyon carving driving. Probably see the around the same mpgs as the 3.5L MDX from city limits to city limits 100% hwy driving.