Toyota of Orlando explains vehicle drive modes

Have you ever explored the different drive modes available on your Orlando Toyota? While not all vehicles have them, most of our new vehicle options have multiple modes designed to allow you to tailor your drive time experience every time you get behind the wheel. However, not all drivers know what drive modes are or how they work. Toyota of Orlando is here to explain!

What are drive modes? 

There are typically five different drive modes available. The three that are the most commonly found are Normal, Eco, and Sport. Some vehicles (especially SUVs and trucks) have Snow mode for winter weather, and hybrid cars almost always offer an EV mode (but you won't find EV mode on a gasoline-powered car). Let's take a more in-depth look at what each mode has to offer on your Orlando Toyota.

The 5 different drive modes, explained

Normal mode: Normal mode is what your car typically operates in. When driving in this mode, you'll find that you have a perfect balance of performance and comfort and that you also get the horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency that you expect.

Sport mode: When you switch your vehicle over into sport mode, you'll find that your drive time is... well, sportier. This drive mode changes the way that your car shifts and alters your electric power steering, acceleration, transmission, and throttle response. It'll be easier and faster to accelerate and your handling will be improved vastly. The only downside? You'll see your new Toyota's fuel efficiency take a slight dip.

Eco mode: Eco mode is all about efficiency - particularly, fuel efficiency. This mode will taper down your climate controls (like heated seats and A/C) as well as reduce throttle response and engine power in order to conserve fuel. You'll get more MPGs, but this drive mode isn't recommended for when your car needs get up and go. For example, you wouldn't want to put your Orlando Toyota into this mode if you're trying to quickly pass someone or if you're climbing a hill.

Snow mode: Snow mode is for drivers who have to take on winter weather conditions - this drive mode is especially useful in snow and icy conditions. Basically, it ensures that your car starts out in second gear rather than first. This helps to reduce torque and in turn, lower your risk of your tires spinning out on a slick surface because they can't get a grip on it. Additionally, Snow mode will alter your car's shifting patterns to help enhance traction.

EV mode: EV mode is only found on Orlando Toyota hybrids because this drive mode means your vehicle is operating solely on electric power. When you activate EV mode, your car will stop utilizing the gasoline engine altogether and rely on power from the battery alone. However, you won't be able to travel long distances or at high speeds in this mode. It's best used when you're in slow-moving traffic, and only for a mile or so.

Want to experience these drive modes in person? Come down to Toyota of Orlando! We'll get you behind one of our new Toyotas to test them out. Visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.