Electric power steering "DualDrive"

The vehicle is equipped with the electrically controlled, power-assisted "DualDrive" system. It operates only with the ignition key in the ON position and the engine running, and allows the steering effort to be adjusted to all driving conditions.

Note: if the ignition key is turned quickly, the power steering may take 1-2 seconds to become fully operational.

The function is switched on and off by pressing button A - Fig. 103 on the dashboard next to the steering wheel.

When the function is switched on, the word CITY appears on the instrument panel display (on some versions, the CITY warning light illuminates).

With the CITY function on, the effort required at the steering wheel is reduced and parking becomes easier. The function is therefore particularly useful in city traffic.

Any malfunctions of the electric power steering are indicated by the warning lighton the
instrument panel and by the message on the display (on some versions, a symbol appears on the display) (see chapter "Warning lights and indicators").

In the event of an electric power steering failure, the vehicle can still be steered as a vehicle with mechanical steering.

The vehicle can be equipped with a system for selecting between two driving modes: Normal and Sport.

Press the SPORT button, fig. 104, to select the sport setting, characterised by more responsive accelerator pedal response and increased steering effort, for a more sporty driving feel.

Pressing the SPORT button also activates the turbocharger boost (overboost).

In this function, depending on the accelerator pedal position and for a limited time, the engine control allows the turbocharger to reach its highest pressure level, increasing the torque compared with the normally available value.

This function is particularly useful when maximum performance is needed for a short time (e.g. when overtaking).

When the function is active, the "S" symbol lights up on the instrument panel.

Press the button again to switch off the function and return to normal driving mode.

Please note: the SPORT function becomes active 5 seconds after the corresponding button is pressed.

Please note: with the SPORT function active, you may feel a jerky pull when accelerating, which is typical of sporty driving.

Please note: when parking with multiple steering manoeuvres, the power steering may feel stiffer. This is normal and is caused by the protection system, which prevents the electric steering motor from overheating. No repair is required. When the vehicle is used again, the electric power steering returns to normal operation.

Strong acceleration significantly increases fuel consumption and exhaust emissions: accelerate gradually to reduce fuel consumption.

When using the SPORT function, fuel consumption will be slightly higher than the values given in the "Fuel consumption" section of this supplement.

Any aftermarket work involving subsequent damage to the steering or steering column (e.g. fitting an alarm system), which may cause loss of system performance and loss of warranty, as well as serious safety problems that result in the vehicle no longer conforming to type approval, is strictly prohibited.

Before carrying out any maintenance, always switch off the engine and remove the key so that the steering lock engages, especially when the vehicle is raised on a lift or jack. Where this precaution cannot be followed (when the key must be in the ON position or the engine must be running), first remove the electric power steering main fuse.