Black plate (181,1)
Recommendations for shifting (U.S.A.
and Canada)
Upshifting
For normal acceleration and cruising, we
recommend these shift points.
Gear
Vehicle speed
*1
M1 to M2
24 km/h (15 mph)
M2 to M3
40 km/h (25 mph)
M3 to M4
65 km/h (40 mph)
M4 to M5
73 km/h (45 mph)
M5 to M6
81 km/h (50 mph)
*1
: Always observe local speed limit regulations.
Downshifting
When you must slow down in heavy
traffic or on a steep
upgrade
, downshift
before the engine starts to overwork. This
gives better acceleration when you need
more speed.
On a steep
downgrade
, downshifting
helps maintain safe speed and prolongs
brake life.
q
Direct Mode
Direct mode can be used for temporarily
switching gears by operating the steering
shift switch while the vehicle is being
driven with the selector lever in the D
range.
While in direct mode, the D and M
indicator lights illuminate and the gear
position in use is illuminated.
Direct mode is canceled (released) under
the following conditions.
l
The UP switch (
/OFF) is pulled
rearward for a certain amount of time
or longer.
l
The vehicle is driven for a certain
amount of time or longer (time differs
depending on the driving conditions
while operating).
l
The vehicle is stopped or moving at a
slow speed.
Gear position indicator
Direct mode indicator
NOTE
Shifting up and down while in direct mode may
not be possible depending on the vehicle
speed. In addition, because direct mode is
canceled (released) depending on the rate of
acceleration or if the accelerator is fully
depressed, use of the manual shift mode is
recommended if you need to drive the vehicle
in a particular gear for long periods.
q
Driving Tips
WARNING
Do not allow the vehicle to move in
reverse on an up-slope while the
selector lever is in a forward gear
position, or move forward on a down-
slope while the selector lever is in the
reverse position:
Otherwise, the engine will stop,
causing the loss of the power brake
and power steering functions, and
make it difficult to control the vehicle
which could result in an accident.
When Driving
Transaxle
4-57
Mazda6_8EA2-EA-14K_Edition5 Page181
Friday, November 27 2015 4:56 PM
Form No.8EA2-EA-14K