bclexus

Are you saying that the transmission shifting characteristics are different between Sport and Sport+? I thought they were the same. How is it different?

rijc99

Transmission shift logic is same between Sport S and Sport S+.

bclexus

I think the transmission shifting characteristics for Sport and Sport+ are the same too.

bclexus

In your case specifically (with a GS 350 Luxury package model) going to Sport+ drive mode alters the steering responsiveness by increasing steering effort. I recall reading that steering effort (needed to turn the steering wheel) is increased by 20%, which makes the steering feel heavier, but more desirable at higher speeds when taking turns/curves.

jjscsix

Absolutely different between those two modes. I 100% guarantee it. It holds lower gears much longer and downshifts much more eagerly. Don't forget I have a Luxury that may be different than the F Sport or Premium.

bclexus

Overlooking ECO mode - are you saying that your Normal mode has one set of transmission characteristics, and your Sport mode a different set of characteristics...and your Sport+ mode has yet another entirely different 3rd set of characteristics that is different from the Sport mode?

That's a new one on me!

jjscsix

Yes it does.

bclexus

I've never heard or seen that mentioned anywhere before...

rijc99

I'm with bclexus on this. Because what you are describing is contrary to all Lexus literature

jjscsix

The difference is actually greater from Sport to plus than it is from normal to Sport. Ya'll can question me all you want, but it's not a subtle difference. Maybe it has something to do with the learning mode....I don't know. But I'm not dreaming this.

I just got rid of a BMW 550 with the Sport transmission, and I now have an A7 Audi with Sport package. I'm in and out of the sport modes on my cars all the time, every time I drive them based upon traffic conditions so I'm very tuned into the difference in responsiveness of how the hold gears and downshift more aggressively.

rijc99

It's perception...

There are 3 throttle response modes. Eco, Normal and Sport S.
Transmission shift characteristics have 2 modes. Normal and Sport S.

Sport S+ is basically Sport S with "additions"
In addition to the Sport S changes of throttle and shift, the "+" adds the following changes:
-Higher damping force
-Increased steering feedback
-VGRS ratio change
-DRS enhance
-VDIM control intervention change

I understand you may feel Sport S+ adds additional throttle or shift change but that's just your perception and not what the car is doing. NO technical data or literature support that and in fact state otherwise.

Lexus new model technical training handbook:
http://assets.cobaltnitra.com/teams/...146efa6b30.pdf

bclexus

Clearly this is something that you personally notice, observe, feel and experience. But, as you probably already know, there is no indication (written or verbal) from Lexus or any reliable third-party source (that I am aware of) that professes what you declare to be accurate. It would certainly be helpful if there was something tangible to support your assertion. Do you have any suggestions on where such information can be obtained?

yardie876

Been too lazy to look this up.

Side note: This confirms that trac is dialed back in sport+. Obviously still not enough though lol...

praetor

I can honestly say there is a noticeable difference in throttle response and transmission shifts in ECO, Norm and S/S+ Mode. Suspension settings in S+ though, it is tough for me to tell. I just haven't pushed the car hard enough or noticed.

I do know that S and S+ mode puts a bi smile on my face. LOL

rijc99

You just need to try it on the crappy freeways we have here in So.Cal.