Sport Mode - Unlocking the Mystery

[DerekS]

So what, exactly, does Sport Mode do?

We know about the differences on the throttle curve, that has been well documented (and graphed) across all three modes. But what else?

To me, it does something to the sound of the engine, and it reduces the amount of power steering assist.

Is there anything else?
If I am right about it modifying the engine sound, how is it doing that?

I'm looking for explicit technical answers to what this mode does. Actually, I'm curious about all three modes.

Hopefully this doesn't count as a repost or get slammed with "USE THE SEARCH" replies, because I'm genuinely curious and I don't think the modes have been exhaustively described or explored.

[CRZCT]

The engine rpm is raised 500 in sport and I know Honda tuned the exhaust differently for the cvt and the stick for sound , each is unique. They had specific rpms for that , so I would say that is part of it . Also wondering if it's a spring loaded exhaust .

[CRZalps]

Yes. According to the service manual, P 17-32, Book 2, which I know you'd have to buy seperately, there is a graph that shows the effort required in Econ/Normal and Sport. Normal and Econ have the same required effort.

[TCroly]

The sound of the engine is changed In sport mode because you are opening the throttle much wider with only a small push on the accelerator pedal. As a result you hear more induction sounds from the engine gulping more air.

As a test, put the car in normal or Eco mode and then just floor it. You will hear the same sporty sounds that you hear in sport mode at 1/4 or 1/2 throttle.

[CRZalps]

Also, when changing the throttle, Econ mode will ignore quick jabs to the accelerator. It evens out the pedal movement to keep throttle smooth and even. Sport with react to each and every jab.

[DerekS]

CRZalps, since it is a drive-by-wire system I am going to assume that it changes the sampling frequency of the throttle to achieve the difference in responsiveness.

[Iran]

The Normal and Econ modes both have more induction noise and lack the tuned, melodic sound of Sport mode at any throttle setting. The increased throttle sensitivity in Sport mode has to be due to a change in tuning and not a throttle setting.

[CRZalps]

Derek, I would guess your assumption is correct. A graph, on P11-73 shows that at little Accelerator pedal travel, the throttle valve opening is much the same for all three modes. Starting at maybe 1/4 depression, the Sport mode's throttle opening grows exponentially, and then linearly. The Econ mode has a Log style growth as 1/4 throttle. Normal is linear at all times.

What is suprising is that at full throttle, it appears that the Throttle valve opening is more or less the same for all modes.

[sleighman]

Is it possible that it ups the fuel pressure and adjust the way the injectors and other electronics work. My car with just Intake, cat delete and ksk exhaust is much stronger in sport mode. Others have driven my car before and after the mods and also in normal and sport mode. It has to do more than just bump the rpm's by 500.

[Jwarian]

I find braking to be different too
As well as clutch pressures

Anyone else?

I think this is due to an increase in hydraulic pressure across the board, including power steering