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Black plate (157,1)
Recommendations for shifting
Upshifting
For normal acceleration, we recommend
these shift points.
Gear Vehicle speed
M1 to M2 19 km/h (12 mph)
M2 to M3 35 km/h (22 mph)
M3 to M4 47 km/h (29 mph)
M4 to M5 58 km/h (36 mph)
M5 to M6 78 km/h (49 mph)
For cruising
Gear Vehicle speed
M1 to M2 5 km/h (3 mph)
M2 to M3 30 km/h (19 mph)
M3 to M4 40 km/h (25 mph)
M4 to M5 50 km/h (31 mph)
M5 to M6 67 km/h (42 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.
qDirect 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 vehicle is driven at a constant
speed.
l
The needle in the tachometer
approaches the red zone.
l
The vehicle is driven at a constant
speed and the accelerator pedal is
heavily depressed.
l
The vehicle is stopped or moving at a
slow speed.
Gear position indicator
Direct mode indicator
Driving YourMazda
Starting and Driving
5-19
RX-8_8Z09-EA-08C_Edition3 Page157
Thursday, July 3 2008 2:23 PM
Form No.8Z09-EA-08C