On my 2015 BMW.
ECO
- Activates stop/start
- Throttles back the A/C (cycles the compressor is my guess)
- What I can best describe as short shifting the transmission.
- Unlocks the torque converter when coasting. The official term is "Sailing" and it feels like you're in neutral.
SPORT
- Firms up steering effort.
- Raises, in terms of RPM, the shift points.
- Dampening changes (if equipped).
Very similar on my 2018 GTI, while the 2013 Cooper have a rudimentary
called 'Sport Mode', which affects steering effort and throttle curve only.
GTI: Choice between Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Individual Mode:
- suspension damping (DCC, if equipped > IMHO too much damping in sport, too little in comfort)
- steering effort (heavier in sport mode, a matter of taste)
- LED adaptive headlights (if eqipped > DLA: permanent high beam with masking and bending lights > quicker in 'sport mode', off in 'eco mode')
- throttle curve (IMHO fake, it just mimics improved but not actually affects response)
- DSG (shift points, not on my car because it's a manual)
- A/C (same as on BMW, reduced compressor power/action)
- VAQ (electro-hydraulic LSD > noticeably quicker, earlier and stronger in 'sport mode')
- ACC (adaptive cruise control > quicker response to the car in front in sport, very calm
in 'eco mode')
- engine sound (fake, it uses a tiny loudspeaker behind the dash)
- probably a few more I currently don't remember
My take? Most of the time just 'Normal' or 'Individual' (with all points in Normal,
except ACC in Eco). Changes in engine sound, steering and throttle are completely
dispensable . . . .
.