Technical data

Automatic Transmission - 2.0 models
81
2
AUTOMATICALLY SELECTED MODES
The transmission control system automatically selects different gear
change modes, listed below, designed to suit a variety of driving
conditions.
NOTE: Automatically selected modes cannot be selected by the driver and
will not operate if Sport or Snow mode have already been selected.
Hill ascent, trailer and high altitude mode
A suitable gear change pattern is selected to counter momentum
loss, caused by the more frequent gear changing which can occur
when climbing hills, or when towing a trailer or caravan. This gear
change pattern is also selected at high altitudes to combat low
engine torque.
Hill descent control
Unless some form of braking is applied, vehicles will naturally
increase speed while travelling downhill. On most automatic
vehicles, this results in the highest gear being selected, thereby
reducing engine braking to a minimum.
However on your vehicle, the hill descent mode provides engine
braking by causing the transmission to automatically change to a
lower gear on steep downhill gradients, provided the following
criteria occur:
• Road speed exceeds 30 km/h.
• The foot brake is applied for at least one second.
• The accelerator pedal is fully released.
NOTE: Hill descent mode is cancelled when the throttle is reapplied.
Stop/Go mode
When driving in slow traffic, the 1st gear is inhibited, preventing
constant gear changes between 1st and 2nd gear. The car will
move off using the 2nd gear, helping to create a smoother ride.
Cruise control mode
When cruise control is activated, a suitable gear change pattern is
selected which is less sensitive to throttle changes. This reduces the
amount and frequency of gear changes, providing a smoother ride.
Cold start mode
In very cold conditions, the automatic transmission will stay in the
lower gears for longer, to help the engine reach its normal
operating temperature more quickly. This will help to improve
overall fuel economy and driveability, and reduce emissions.
High coolant temperature mode
In high ambient temperatures during extreme load conditions, it is
possible for the engine and the gearbox to overheat. At a certain
temperature, the transmission will select a gear change pattern
designed to aid the cooling process, whilst enabling the gearbox to
continue performing normally in high temperatures.
Smooth change mode
Engine torque is reduced during gear changes, creating a much
smoother ride.