iHondaGuy

Hi,

Besides the paddle shifter functionality is there any difference in handling, fuel efficiency, acceleration, etc... between Drive & Sport mode?

Thanks!

RDX-Rick

The paddle shifters still work in the normal mode, but when the car reaches a steady state, the transmission returns to automatic mode by itself. I normally only use the paddle shifters for engine braking when I am exiting the highway.

Sport mode is actually 2 different modes. If you switch to sport mode and do not touch the paddles, it is also a fully automatic mode, but it keeps the car in a lower gear longer, resulting in a higher RPM for any given speed. I also believe that it will only go as high as 5th gear, and never use 6th gear. The result of the higher RPM is that the engine is running at a speed that provides more torque and better throttle response. I use this setting when driving in heavy city traffic because of the improved throttle response and better engine braking.

If the paddles are touched just once while the selector is in sport mode, then the transmission remains in a full manual mode ( except the change from 1 to 2 is automatic). I haven't found any benefit to this mode ( other than an impromptu race from a red light).

So to answer your question, acceleration is better in sport mode once you are moving. I don't think it would improve the 0-60 speeds at wide open throttle though. The fuel efficiency gauge doesn't seem to change much when switching between modes, but if you are looking to get the maximum mileage then I would recommend using the normal mode. Certainly running at a higher than required RPM for the life of your vehicle would cause additional wear on the moving parts.

So my recommendation is to use the normal mode for normal driving. Use the "sport" and "sport/manual" mode for specific driving situations.

NOTE: Member RockyBoy has suggested the sport mode is best for impressing women who are 9/10 or higher.