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146 Driving ► For maximum acceleration without touching the selector, fully depress the accelerator pedal (kick-down). The gearbox changes down automatically or holds the gear selected until the maximum engine speed is reached. When braking, the gearbox changes down automatically to provide effective engine braking. If you release the accelerator sharply, the gearbox will not shift to a higher gear for safety reasons. Never select position N while the vehicle is moving. Never select positions P or R unless the vehicle is completely stationary. Temporary manual control of gear changes You can temporarily assume control of gear changing using the " + " et " - ” steering-mounted controls. The gear change request will be executed if the engine speed permits. This function allows you to anticipate certain situations, such as overtaking another vehicle or approaching a bend in the road. After a few seconds with no inputs via the control paddles, the gearbox reverts to automatic operation. Creeping (moving without using the accelerator) This function facilitates manoeuvring of the vehicle at low speed (when parking, in traffic jams, etc.). With the engine at idle, parking brake released and position D , M or R selected, the vehicle moves as soon as you take your foot off the brake pedal (even without pressing the accelerator). As a safety precaution, never leave the vehicle with the engine running and the doors closed. Manual operation ► With the selector in position D , press button M to enable 6- or 8-speed sequential gear changing. The indicator lamp for the button comes on. ► Operate the " + " or " - " steering mounted controls. M appears and the engaged gears are shown in succession on the instrument panel. ► You can revert to automatic operation at any time by pressing button M again. The indicator lamp for the button goes off. In manual mode, there is no need to release the accelerator pedal while changing gear. It is only possible to change from one gear to another if the vehicle speed and engine speed permit. If the engine speed is too low or too high, the selected gear flashes for a few seconds, then the gear actually engaged is shown. When the vehicle is stationary or moving very slowly, the gearbox automatically selects gear M1 . To preserve the brakes while descending a steep incline, use engine braking to reduce your speed (change down or select a lower gear). Keeping the brake pedal pressed continuously for long periods can overheat the brakes, with the risk of damaging the braking system or making it inoperative. Only use the brakes when necessary, to slow or stop the vehicle. Depending on the road configuration (e.g. mountainous road), manual operation may be preferable. Automatic operation may not always be suitable, and does not enable engine braking. |