Automatic transmission
The automatic transmission in the Citroën C6 (1st generation) offers four operating modes: Automatic (D), Manual (M), SPORT and SNOW. The modes can be selected individually using the selector lever, and the shift logic responds to driving style, load and road conditions. The transmission recognises critical situations such as kickdown or downhill driving and automatically selects the optimum gear. Safety features such as shift interlocks when opening the door and warning lamps increase control. This transmission system combines driving comfort with technical intelligence, ideal for relaxed or dynamic driving.
Automatic transmission

- Park position (P).
- Reverse position (R).
- Neutral position (N).
- The automatic transmission offers the following options:
- Function with automatic adaptation to the individual driving style and road conditions (position D).
- Sequential operation with manual gear selection (position M).
- Operation in automatic SPORT or SNOW mode (position D, then press control A repeatedly).
For safety reasons:
- The selector lever can only be moved out of position P while the brake pedal is pressed.
- An audible signal sounds when a door is opened if the selector lever is not in position P.
- Always make sure the selector lever is in position P before leaving the vehicle.
The engine can only be started in position P or N.
A safety interlock prevents starting if the lever is set to any other position.
After starting the engine, move the selector lever to P, depress the brake pedal, and then move the selector lever to D, R or M:
- to D, to select automatic operation.
- to R, to engage reverse gear.
- to M, to select manual shifting.
Switching from position D (automatic operation) to position M (sequential operation) or vice versa can be done at any time.
Shifting the automatic transmission

Park position
To prevent movement when the vehicle is stationary, place the selector lever in P. Only engage this position when the vehicle is completely stopped. In this position the drive wheels are locked. Check that the selector lever is in the correct position. Apply the electric parking brake firmly.
Reverse Gear
Only engage when the vehicle is stationary and the brake pedal is depressed. To avoid a jolt in the transmission, do not accelerate immediately after shifting.
Neutral position
Do not select position N while the vehicle is rolling (unless absolutely necessary).
- Do not select position N while the vehicle is rolling (unless absolutely necessary).
- Select position P or R only when the vehicle is stationary.
If position N is selected by accident while driving, let the engine slow down first, then select position D or M.
Automatic shifting in forward gear

The transmission always selects the gear that best matches the following parameters:
- Driving style.
- Road conditions.
- Vehicle load.
The transmission operates automatically.
During certain driving maneuvers (e.g. when overtaking), pressing the accelerator pedal fully achieves maximum acceleration, which causes a lower gear to be selected automatically.
Notes:
- When braking, the transmission may downshift automatically to provide effective engine braking.
- If the accelerator pedal is released abruptly, the transmission does not upshift, for increased safety.
Sequential forward gear selection

Selector lever position for manual gear selection
- Selector lever to M.
- Press the selector control at the "+" symbol to shift up.
- Pull the selector control at the "-" symbol to shift down.
Switching from position D (automatic operation) to position M (sequential operation) or vice versa can be done at any time.
Operation in SPORT or SNOW automatic mode

Set the lever to D, press control A to select one of the driving programs SPORT, SNOW or NORMAL.
SPORT mode allows a more dynamic driving style with more power and faster acceleration.
The indicator light on the instrument panel comes on.
SNOW mode allows more comfortable driving on slippery surfaces.
The indicator light on the instrument panel comes on.
NORMAL mode is set by default when the engine is started.
This driving program is adapted to normal driving conditions.
No indicator light comes on in the instrument panel.
Note: The driving program selected before the engine was switched off is not retained when the engine is next started.
A flashing indicator light for the requested position shows that the position has not yet been engaged.
A continuously lit indicator light confirms that the position is engaged.
If a malfunction occurs:
- A severe jolt may be felt when reverse gear R is selected.
- The transmission is locked in one gear.
- Do not exceed a speed of 100 km/h.
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop immediately.
The automatic transmission of the 1st generation Citroën C6 combines driving comfort with technological precision. Whether in automatic, sport or snow mode, the Citroën C6 2005-2012 offers a transmission that adapts optimally to every driving situation. This ensures confident handling on all roads.
The ability to switch between automatic and sequential operation at any time gives the driver maximum flexibility. Even on difficult road surfaces, the transmission impresses with precise shifting and smooth transitions.
Once again, the 1st generation Citroën C6 demonstrates its commitment to driving comfort and technology at the highest level, a true highlight in the executive saloon segment.
Test yourself
A quick Citroen C6 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.