Eco Mode: Everything You Need to Know

Did you know that the average U.S. driver spends about $3,000 a year on gasoline?
If you ever want to cut down on your fuel usage, you will want to consider a vehicle that offers Eco Mode. This innovative new driving technology can actually help you get excellent fuel efficiency on your vehicle.
Here, we will look at what Eco Mode is, what vehicles have it, and when you should use it.
What is Eco Mode?

Eco Mode is a type of drive mode that allows a vehicle to regulate the climate control, power output, and seat heating. This allows the vehicle to put less demand on the vehicle’s engine. Thus, the vehicle can deliver better fuel economy.
While the vehicle is in Eco Mode, the driver will notice that the vehicle will not have the acceleration performance that they are used to. Therefore, there is a trade-off when using Eco mode on the road.
When Should I Use Eco Mode?
Eco Mode is ideal when a driver will be traveling at lower speeds or in stop-and-go traffic. For instance, Eco Mode is a great idea if you will be driving in the city.
However, Eco Mode is not a great idea for highway or long-distance driving. That’s because you are likely to be cruising at higher speeds on the highway.
Does Eco Mode Save on Gas?

Yes. Eco Mode is designed to save you on gas. This will, in turn, save you on your running fuel costs. In fact, you should see lots of savings with Eco Mode if you are doing the majority of your driving close to home. You only want to turn off Eco Mode if you drive on the highway or go on a long road trip.
Popular Manufacturer Eco Modes
If you are interested in all the benefits that Eco Mode offers, you may wonder which vehicle offers this technology. The good news is that a wide range of brands offer Eco Mode in their vehicles.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular manufacturers that currently offer Eco Mode:

Ford/Lincoln
Ford and Lincoln offer Eco Mode on their vehicles. The Ford Eco Mode system provides a running evaluation of the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. The system constantly evaluates the vehicle’s speed, braking, and gear shifting. Ford claims drivers can save up to 5% on their fuel by using Eco Mode during local and low-speed driving conditions.
Toyota
Toyota’s Eco Mode will evaluate the vehicle’s cabin system and regulate various cabin controls. That includes the vehicle’s heated seats, A/C controls, and additional power outputs. Toyota’s Eco Mode is designed for stop-and-go driving.
Lexus
The Eco Mode system on Lexus vehicles is known as Drive Mode Select. With Drive Mode Select, the driver has a choice of five settings: Sport Mode, Normal Mode, ECO Mode, EV Mode, and Sport S+ Mode. Each mode can be customized.
Kia/Hyundai
The Eco Mode on Kia and Hyundai models is known as Active ECO. When the Active ECO system is activated, a green ECO indicator will illuminate the driver’s information center.
GM/Chevrolet Brands
For GM/Chevrolet brands, the Eco Mode unlocks the vehicle’s torque converter, allowing the driver to enjoy better fuel efficiency at a lower speed. The system will also cut the engine’s speed while at idle.
Nissan
You can find Eco Mode across Nissan’s line-up of cars, trucks, and SUVs. The Eco Mode on Nissan vehicles moderates the acceleration, which lowers the overall fuel consumption.
Top Models With Eco Mode

There are a number of excellent vehicles with Eco Mode. But which ones are the best?
Here are some popular models that offer Eco Mode:
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the road. In fact, you can get a combined fuel economy rating of 52 miles per gallon. Best of all, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid is available for less than $25,000.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a perennial best seller with a huge emphasis on fuel efficiency. With a combined fuel economy rating of 32 miles per gallon, you are sure to get lots of benefits with the Eco Mode on this small car.
Chevrolet 1500 Duramax Diesel
Who says that you have to spend lots of money on fuel when driving a pick-up? The Chevrolet 1500 Duramax Diesel offers Eco Mode along with an excellent combined fuel economy rating of 27 miles per gallon.