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183Starting and driving
Driving with a load
The handling characteristics are affected by
how the car is loaded.
• Place the heaviest load as far forward and
as low as possible in the trunk.
• Secure the load to the lashing eyes (see
page 137).
• Heavy loads mean that the car’s center of
gravity is further back. As a result, the car
will sway more during evasive steering.
• Never exceed the permissible load of the
roof box, even if there is room for more.
• Ensure that the tire pressure is correct –
slight overinflation is preferable to under-
inflation.
• The braking distance of a loaded car is
always greater. Keep your distance from
the vehicle in front.
• Do not exceed the car’s permissible
gross vehicle weight or axle load (see
page 268).
• Roof loads can negatively affect telecom-
munication.
For further information on tires see page
231.
Driving with the trunk lid
open
Avoid driving with the trunk lid partly or fully
open, since exhaust fumes can be drawn
into the cabin.
If you must drive with the trunk lid open,
close all windows and the sunroof (if fitted)
and set the cabin fan to its highest speed
setting.
Driving in deep water
NOTICE
Do not drive in puddles or water deeper
than 7 in. (20 cm) and do not drive faster
than 3–4 mph. Water can otherwise be
sucked into the engine. The engine will be
seriously damaged if water enters the
intake system.