Sport mode - what does it do?

Hello,

I know Sport mode is similar to the 3rd gen ECT button. It appears to change the transmission shift algorithms and holds the gears longer, keep the turbo spun, and keep you in the power-band longer. I’ll likely test this a little more extensively on my next tank or two of gas and see if the impact on MPG is significant.

It also seems to tighten up steering, but I don’t know yet if that is a placebo effect or not.

Any factual insight on this mode?

I’m assuming it has no effect on the suspension, tire wear, etc. Has anyone seen good detail on this?

Thanks

 

Correct, I forget the name, but fancier models have variable suspension too, but that’s a different thing.

 

It might have an effect on the rear tire wear.

 

The Limited has variable. But I don’t think the OR shocks do anything.

 

Different vehicle but on the F150 it also does some engine braking.

 

All of the Tacos use engine braking.

 

I mean automatically drops gears when in Sport. Never drove a 3rd gen but that wasn't something my 2nd gen did automatically

 

There's also a tow mode right? I'm curious as to what's the difference between that and sport mode.

 

My 2013 and 2015 had engine braking and would downshift.

 

Good question. I haven’t towed anything but I know owners here have.

 

Huh. My 09 never did it when I towed a trailer at least once a week in the summer

 

Mine did when heading down the hills close to my house. I really don’t recall that while towing my trailer with the ATV’s, sorry.

 

Ah I'm in IL. We have no real big hills by us

 

tow/haul locks you out of top gear. Sport mode does not.

tow mode also does not seem to tighten up steering.

 

Tow mode keeps the torque converter locked much longer, and drops a gear. It seems to top out in 7th gear not 8. It holds the gear longer, shifts higher in the RPM, and keeps the towing RPM maybe 500-700 higher than normal mode. It seems, but I don't know for a fact, if it adds a few mph of slop to the cruise settings. e.g. If I want 60mph, it will allow a wider variation before adding throttle.

 

i used sport mode when i was in Colorado. its ever so snappier on throttle. owners manual says to use it in mountains or when sporty driving lol. i also use it when i know ima need all the beans when merging on highway

 

They should call it Turbo ECT.