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- RDX Aspec Adv.
Manual mode does not quite equate to Sport mode. You can drive the 2016 CX-5 in manual mode and it will still not be as responsive as Sport Mode + manual mode. Sport mode doesn't only keep the engine in its powerband, it also increases throttle sensitivity. With manual mode and sport mode off, you will have to step on the gas pedal more to get the car moving. As 7 has said, driving with sport mode on is like driving a different car.
Of course if you are driving at 70 mph and turn on sport mode, it won't make a difference because that's where the CX-5 is already underpowered.
So basically, Sport Mode reduces the distance my right foot travels by a few mm to achieve identical response...game changer! Now we need to compare how fast you can flip it on vs. how fast my foot can travel 2mm further...