7-14
Starting and operating
WARNING
. Do not drive the vehicle with the
clutch disengaged (i.e., when the
clutch pedal is depressed) or
with the shift lever in the neutral
position. Engine braking has no
effect in either of these conditions and the risk of an accident
is consequently increased.
. Do not engage the clutch (i.e.,
release the clutch pedal) suddenly when starting the vehicle.
By doing so the vehicle might
unexpectedly accelerate or the
transmission could malfunction.
CAUTION
Shift into reverse ONLY when the
vehicle has completely stopped. It
may cause damage to the transmission to try shifting into reverse when
the vehicle is moving.
& Shifting speeds
Never exceed the posted speed limit.
! Recommended shifting speeds
The best compromise between fuel economy and vehicle performance during
normal driving is ensured by shifting up
at the speeds listed in the following table.
Shift up
mph (km/h)
1st to 2nd
15 (24)
2nd to 3rd
25 (40)
3rd to 4th
40 (64)
4th to 5th
45 (72)
! Maximum allowable speeds
The following tables show the maximum
speeds that are possible with each different gear.
Never exceed the speed limit listed in the
following table for each gear position
except for brief acceleration in an emergency. The tachometer’s needle will enter
the red area if these speeds are exceeded. Failure to observe this precaution
can lead to excessive engine wear and
poor fuel economy.
1st
mph (km/h)
34 (55)
2nd
58 (93)
3rd
82 (132)
WARNING
When shifting down a gear, ensure
that the vehicle is not travelling at a
speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is
about to be selected. Failure to
observe this precaution can lead to
engine over-revving and this in turn
can result in engine damage.
In addition, sudden application of
engine brakes when the vehicle is
travelling on a slippery surface can
lead to wheel locking; as a consequence, control of the vehicle may
be lost and the risk of an accident
increased.
& Driving tips
Do not drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to
hold your vehicle at a standstill on an
upgrade. Either of those actions may
cause clutch damage.
Do not drive with your hand resting on the
shift lever. This may cause wear on the
transmissi Ûˆ