Driving with the Electronic Two-Mode Automatic Transmission (if equipped)

The vehicle may be equipped with a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with two modes (Power/Normal).

Depending on road conditions, set the switch to "NORMAL", "POWER", or "HOLD" for normal driving, maximum performance driving, or driving with fixed shift control.

Each press of the switch changes the mode in turn between "NORMAL", "POWER", and "HOLD". The "POWER" and "HOLD" indicators on the instrument cluster turn on or off accordingly. Normally, the vehicle operates in "NORMAL" mode when the switch is not pressed. (The "POWER" and "HOLD" indicators are off.)

"NORMAL" Mode

The "N" (Normal) mode provides smooth and even automatic shifting with excellent fuel economy.

The "N" (Normal) mode is recommended for normal driving. Set the shift pattern switch to "N" (Normal). Move the automatic transmission selector lever to the "D" range and slowly depress the accelerator pedal. If rapid acceleration is required, fully depress the accelerator pedal.

"POWER" Mode

In "POWER" mode, you can use the full capability of the vehicle for maximum acceleration and handling. "POWER" mode is recommended for higher speeds than in "NORMAL" mode, driving in mountainous areas, and rapid acceleration. Set the switch to "POWER".

"HOLD" Mode

"HOLD" mode is selected when starting the vehicle on a road surface slippery from snow or similar conditions. The vehicle will start smoothly in second gear.

If rapid acceleration or strong engine braking is required while descending a hill or during prolonged uphill driving, press the "HOLD" switch again to cancel the "HOLD" function. When the "HOLD" button is pressed, the "HOLD" indicator light on the instrument cluster illuminates, and automatic shifting is performed only in the range from 2nd gear to 3rd gear, as shown in the table.

Vehicle Operating Instructions

• Do not move the selector lever from "P" or "N" to any other position while the accelerator pedal is depressed.

• Do not shift the selector lever into "P" while the vehicle is in motion.

• Before shifting into "P", make sure the vehicle has come to a complete stop.

• Do not shift to neutral or coast when driving downhill. This is extremely dangerous. Always keep the vehicle in gear with the clutch engaged while driving.

• Do not "ride the brakes". This may cause them to overheat and fail.

When driving downhill for a long distance, reduce speed and shift to a lower gear. If you do this, engine braking will help slow the vehicle.

• Reduce speed before shifting to a lower gear. Otherwise, the lower gear may not engage.

• Always apply the parking brake.

To prevent the vehicle from moving, the gear selector lever must be in "P".

• Exercise extreme caution when driving on slippery surfaces.

Be especially careful when braking, accelerating, or shifting gears. On slippery surfaces, a sudden change in engine speed may cause the drive wheels to lose traction with the road and the vehicle may go out of control.

• When driving uphill, do not hold the vehicle in place with the accelerator pedal. This may cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake.

CAUTION:

• The risk of vehicle rollover increases sharply if you lose control of the vehicle at high speed.

• Loss of control often occurs when two or more wheels leave the road and the driver turns the steering wheel too sharply to return to the road.

• If the vehicle leaves the road, do not turn the steering wheel sharply.

Reduce speed before returning to the traffic lane.

• In a collision, an unbelted person has a much lower chance of survival than a person wearing a seat belt.