Sports Mode & paddle shifters

I've switched a few times from S to D and back to S all while driving with no issues. Should be fine to do that while moving.

In S as soon as you start to use the paddle shifters, you then need to continue using them until you switch it back to D, also I'm pretty sure you can hit the S button again (while already in S) to "reset" it and it will be back in sport automatic mode.

You can use the paddle shifters in D to temporarily go up or down a gear and the transmission will adjust after a short time if your speed is too high or low.

kdawg said:

I've switched a few times from S to D and back to S all while driving with no issues. Should be fine to do that while moving.

In S as soon as you start to use the paddle shifters, you then need to continue using them until you switch it back to D, also I'm pretty sure you can hit the S button again (while already in S) to "reset" it and it will be back in sport automatic mode.

You can use the paddle shifters in D to temporarily go up or down a gear and the transmission will adjust after a short time if your speed is too high or low.

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Thx . . feel more confident in switching! Have to try paddle shifters from D, also, but guess you wouldn't get the change in handling as with Sport.

You can set D and S to be in whatever modes you want in the Vehicle Settings menu. You can change back and forth from D and S all you want while driving.

I have found that manually shifting an automatic is pretty useless, but if it amuses you, no harm.

todd92 said:

You can set D and S to be in whatever modes you want in the Vehicle Settings menu. You can change back and forth from D and S all you want while driving.

I have found that manually shifting an automatic is pretty useless, but if it amuses you, no harm.

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Think control of driving mode under vehicle settings is only available with the CCD option as it does not show as an option with my FWD without CCD.

Much prefer the feel of Sport mode, at times, so great can switch while driving. I do like the paddle shifters . .

Katie said:

Think control of driving mode under vehicle settings is only available with the CCD option as it does not show as an option with my FWD without CCD.

Much prefer the feel of Sport mode, at times, so great can switch while driving. I do like the paddle shifters . .

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I cannot speak to the MKC since I have not had mine long enough. But on my 2013 MKZ, I got 3-6 MPG better mileage in normal mode over sport mode.

KenZ said:

I cannot speak to the MKC since I have not had mine long enough. But on my 2013 MKZ, I got 3-6 MPG better mileage in normal mode over sport mode.

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Whoa! Thx for mentioning!! Haven't really found it preferable in general highway driving so don't think I'd choose it for primary option, but S handling definitely feels better to me on sharp exit curves & in tight traffic.

If you don't have CCD, S mode does not change the handling. All S mode does is change the throttle mapping and shift points.

I believe I read that CCD is included in AWD and is an option on FWD. Can anyone confirm?

I think its an optional item on the FWD by included on the AWD. When I build a car, with nothing but basic package options, it shows as an optional choice with a FWD car, but is already part of the package with an AWD care (regardless 2.0 vs. 2.3)

Right. I built my 2.0 (I tow, needed the 3000# limit) with CCD.
Lots of fun changing modes.
Interstate expansion strips don't hammer with Comfort setting.
When the road twists with slower turns (and wife not aboard), it is fun to punch up Sport.

desgnr: Yes, it runs the gears at a higher rpm. Same as in my Jeep. Also view some previous reply's.

todd92 said:

I have found that manually shifting an automatic is pretty useless, but if it amuses you, no harm.

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I fully agree: In today's vehicles the C/C'd Trans knows best.

Years ago we would place the auto or manual Trans in second gear to start out on snow and ice covered roads with less slippage than using first gear. Depending on speed we would remain in second gear or back down from third gear to second to first gear and use the engine rpm's to help stop the vehicle in pre ABS days as needed. You could still back the gears down today and I have had to a few times, just not really needed much with ABS assist in today's vehicles.

Also a correct low gear is used when descending steep grades, to use the engines rpm's to assist with Braking so as not to over heat the Pads and Rotors. That is where the MKC's Paddle Shifters are needed today. One should be very familiar and comfortable with their Paddle Shifters well in advance of that need.

Agreed LINC. I would add that we really could use a more crisp, right-now shift when we pull the paddles. We do this in sport mode, and there is no need for the mushy shifting. When I am on a curvy 35-55 mph squiggly road with grade changes and other fun features, it would be really nice to have the C feel a little more playful........

When in "Sport" mode, if I use the paddles the programming assumes a permanent override where all shifting is manual. Aside from pressing the "S" button again, does anyone know of another means of resuming the auto-shift mode?

I don't know about you guys, but I hate that the paddles are not stationary....You're into a turn, left/right...it doesn't matter, if your in "Sport" and you're coming out of a stop (first gear defaults and engages).....rpm's come on pretty quick,while you try and find the paddles that are revolving around and upshift...not impressed,high end paddle shifters are ALWAYS stationary to the steering column, you want to "blip" upshifts,you always KNOW where they are!

I like having the paddle shifters. This is my second car to have them. But their use to me is really limited to passing situations. In normal situations that I need more speed and control, I just flick it into S mode and leave it. My last two cars were manuals so I'm happy to have an automatic again.