Lexus RX300 Manual page 190

(c) Using the "2" and "L" positions
The "2" and "L" positions are used for strong engine braking as
described previously.
With the selector lever in "2" or "L", you can start the vehicle in
motion as with the lever in "D".
With the selector lever in "2", the vehicle will start in the first gear
and automatically shift to the second gear.
With the selector lever in "L", the transmission is engaged in the first
gear.
NOTICE
D Be careful not to overrev the engine. Watch the tachometer
to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The
approximate maximum allowable speed for each position is
given above for your reference.
Two–wheel drive models:
"2" . . . . . . . . . 125 km/h (78 mph)
"L" . . . . . . . . . 70 km/h (43 mph)
Four–wheel drive models:
"2" . . . . . . . . . 117 km/h (73 mph)
"L" . . . . . . . . . 65 km/h (40 mph)
D Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time
in the "2" or "L" position. This may cause severe automatic
transmission damage from overheating. To prevent such
damage, "D" position should be used in hill climbing or hard
towing.
STARTING AND DRIVING
(d) Backing up
31R010b
" 1 Brake pedal
2 "R" (Reverse) position
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector
lever to the "R" position.
NOTICE
Never shift into reverse while the vehicle is moving.
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