SL-Class (R231) 2013 on: Discussion on the SL550

SL/R231: Does Anyone Use The S+ Mode?

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Old Jul 28, 2019 | 09:50 PM
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Does Anyone Use The S+ Mode?

Just curious if anyone uses the S+ transmission mode. Thanks....
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Old Jul 29, 2019 | 12:15 AM
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I’ve tried all modes and S and S+ are just too noisy for me and it holds the gears too long. As much as I like the Curve setting, I feel that the transmission shifts way too soon in that setting. So, the Individual setting has become my favorite. If there was only a way to get the Curve setting to shift like the Individual, that would be the best of all worlds, IMO.
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Old Jul 29, 2019 | 08:23 AM
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Clearly I have a lot to learn. Have never heard of Curve setting. I drive in Comfort most of the time. Also didn't realize there was a way to set Individual mode.
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Old Jul 29, 2019 | 08:47 AM
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Originally Posted by rmorin49
Clearly I have a lot to learn. Have never heard of Curve setting. I drive in Comfort most of the time. Also didn't realize there was a way to set Individual mode.
For sure regarding bolded text. None of those options are available on your car.
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Old Jul 29, 2019 | 09:04 AM
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This is good news. I have looked over my owners manual and did not remember reading about these options.
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Old Jul 29, 2019 | 04:11 PM
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I rarely use S+ but do like the exhaust noise it gives. I live in the countryside with lots of windy roads and like the gearing in S on those roads......but (IMO,)S and S+ are pointless on the motorway.

The thing to remember is that the driver (safety) aids are reduced in S & even more in S+ (and I* depending on how you have set it up).also
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Old Jul 31, 2019 | 12:17 AM
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The SL550 pre facelift cars (‘13-‘16) do not have S+, only S. Tried it in S and the car is ridiculously fast!
Likely few replies to this topic due to fewer S+ R 231 cars.
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Old Aug 1, 2019 | 01:20 AM
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I use it all the time. I would prefer that it held gears longer, actually. I'd prefer S+ to never drop below 2k RPMs (unless in 1st gears), gas mileage be damned.
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Old Aug 3, 2019 | 04:17 PM
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IMO - it depends on where you are driving.. S (or S+) on a motorway is pointless. Constant droning of a car wanting to be in a higher gear on the motorway is just unpleasant.
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Old Aug 7, 2019 | 11:02 AM
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All the time — except on multi-lane highways. Love the engine sound and gear shifts.
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Old Aug 7, 2019 | 11:16 AM
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Originally Posted by jmeyersnv
All the time — except on multi-lane highways. Love the engine sound and gear shifts.
The engine/exhaust sound on my SL450 is growing on me. I did not care for it at first, but I am warming to it, especially with the way it all works with the magnificent 9-speed transmission. Love the way it blips the throttle as it downshifts. The more and more I drive this car, I am amazed at what a bargain it is, compared to other luxury drop tops.
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