Summer vs winter transmission option

[stu99]

I see my SLK has a switch for summer and winter transmission settings. Which will give better fuel consumption or will the difference be marginal?

 

[merc-tech]

Winter setting will give better fuel cons. as gear changing is more controlled, where sports setting offers a quicker gear change

 

[Aletank]

If you have a look in the handbook you'll find the S/W setting stands for Standard/Winter The winter setting starts the car off in second gear for icy conditions

 

[television]

I think that there is little difference in economy, its all a matter of light or heavy feet. As aletank says starting in 2nd in the snow, helps to prevent the rear wheels from spinning.

Malcolm

 

[jberks]

I suspect that if anything, the winter setting will be slightly less economical as it seems to allow a little more slip from the torque converter. May make a difference around town though doubtful on a run.

 

[Wezzel]

Might be worth mentioning that the W setting is usefull in long slow moving traffic queues as the car "creeps" forward at a faster speed.