"Performance" button in Saturn SL2

Firstly, let me admit that I know little to nothing about cars. OK, that said here's my question. I have a Saturn SL2, and there's this button next to the gear shift called "performance". What in the world does that mean/do?

To me this means that when this option is used the engine runs harder to 'perform' better. If this is true wouldn't you be using more gas when in the 'performance' mode?

This kind of thinking is the main reason I do not ever use this button/option, I do not want to have the car guzzle up the gas. Gas is too expensive! But my husband always uses this option and it is driving me crazy! So I wanted to know what some of you thought about it.

Tiff

 

yes it's an automatic

 

Flynnibus is correct -- by actuating "performance" mode, the transmission shift points are changed, allowing the engine to spend more time in the higher rev counts. This is usually where optimum horsepower and torque bands are found, as opposed to the regular mode, when shift points are optimized for fuel efficiency. So the question is, how much difference will you see in gas mileage? Most likely about 2-3 mpg from a 4-cylinder engine between fillups on average. Compare that to the same as driving with your tires 4-5 lbs. underinflated (a much more dangerous situation safety-wise).

 

It also gives you an extra 100hp mental horsepower when you hit the button, kinda like an after-burner boost button. Feed me some more flynnbus!!

 

I've heard adding a rear spoiler and some phat rims will add another 100hp as well!

 

Obviously this person knows nothing about cars. All this stuff makes the car heavy thus making the car slower. Stickers are the way to go. I think flames add the most hp.

 

OK, you've got me there. The REAL reason for adding a rear spoiler to a Saturn would be to help keep the rear end planted at 140mph.

 

My totally awesome hardcore bad-to-the-bone Toyota has a similar button. I press it as if I were Han Solo jumping to hyperspace while merging or passing all those cars that insist on slowing down on Rt. 28 going over the Waxpool flyover.
:drive:

 

Hahaha

 

You mean, keeping the rear end planted at it's top speed of 85mph. FEED ME SOME MORE FLYNNIBUS!!

 

That's the thing about cycling -- as I get older, I find aerodynamic downforce doesn't affect speed as much as the added weight around my midsection!