Toyota 2009 Avalon Owner's Manual page 162

2-1. Driving procedures
Changing shift ranges in "S" mode
Shift the shift lever to the "S" mode driving position and operate the
shift lever.
The initial shift range in "S" mode is automatically set to "5" or "4"
according to the vehicle's speed. However, depending on the driving
condition, the initial shift range may be set to "3" when AI-SHIFT con-
trol is being performed. (→P. 137)
n Shift ranges and their functions
l You can choose from 6 levels of engine braking force.
l A lower shift range will provide greater engine braking force than
a higher shift range, and the engine revolutions will also
increase.
136
Upshift range
Downshift range