Mazda 8T12-EA-03K - Manual (Page 131)

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During deceleration, the gears shift down
automatically when speed is reduced to
the following:
Gear Vehicle speed
M5 →M4
Between 44 and 86 km/h
(27 and 53 mph), depending on
how much the accelerator pedal
is released.
M4 →M3
Between 25 and 63 km/h
(15 and 39 mph), depending on
how much the accelerator pedal
is released.
M3 or M2 →M1 10 km/h (6 mph)
NOTE
If the vehicle is driven at a low speed
from a standing start while in M2, the
gear may not shift down to M1
automatically.
If the vehicle is kicked down at the
following speeds or lower, the gears shift
down automatically:
Gear Vehicle speed
M5 →M4 177 km/h (109 mph)
M5 →M3 69 km/h (42 mph)
M4 →M3 69 km/h (42 mph)
M4 →M2 45 km/h (27 mph)
M3 →M2 45 km/h (27 mph)
Recommendations for shifting
Upshifting
For normal acceleration and cruising, we
recommend these shift points.
(2.3-liter engine)
Gear Vehicle speed
M1 to M2 24 km/h (15 mph)
M2 to M3 40 km/h (25 mph)
M3 to M4 65 km/h (40 mph)
(3.0-liter engine)
Gear Vehicle speed
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)
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.
qDriving Tips
Passing
For extra power when passing another
vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress
the accelerator fully. The transaxle will
shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle
speed.
Climbing steep grades from a stop
To climb a steep grade from a stopped
position:
1. Depress the brake pedal.
2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the
load weight and grade steepness.
3. Release all brakes while gradually
accelerating.
Descending steep grades
When descending a steep grade, shift to
lower gears, depending on load weight
and grade steepness. Descend slowly,
using the brakes only occasionally to
prevent them from overheating.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-15
Mazda6_8T12-EA-03K_Edition1 Page131
Friday, December 5 2003 8:55 AM
Form No.8T12-EA-03K