what is sport mode in a car Page 2

Sport mode is your car’s double espresso: it sharpens the throttle response, holds lower gears with higher shift points, and may add weight to the steering while firming the suspension if it’s adaptive.

Some cars also open the exhaust flaps and relax stability control limits, so it feels friskier without magically creating extra kilowatts.

Use it for a spirited blast on a clear, twisty road; not for the school run or a drizzly crawl down Parramatta Road.

Expect higher fuel use and a busier engine, plus a soundtrack your neighbours will review poorly.

Dial it back in heavy rain or on slippery surfaces if you prefer grip over drama.