Downshifting - Fiat 500X 2017 Owner's Manual

Recommended Vehicle Shift Speeds
To utilize your manual transmission efficiently for fuel
economy and performance, it should be upshifted as
listed in the recommended shift speed chart. Shift at the
All Engines Gear Selection
Accel.
Cruise

Downshifting

Moving from a high gear down to a lower gear is
recommended to preserve brakes when driving down
steep hills. In addition, downshifting at the right time
provides better acceleration when you desire to resume
speed. Downshift progressively. Do not skip gears to
avoid overspeeding the engine and clutch.
WARNING!
Do not downshift for additional engine braking on
a slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their
grip, and the vehicle could skid.
Manual Transmission Shift Speeds in MPH (KM/H)
2 to 3
24 (39)
19 (31)
STARTING AND OPERATING 225
vehicle speeds listed for acceleration. When heavily
loaded or pulling a trailer, these recommended up-shift
speeds may not apply.
3 to 4 4 to 5
34 (55) 47 (76)
27 (43) 37 (60)
CAUTION!
• Skipping gears and downshifting into lower
gears at higher vehicle speeds can damage the
engine and clutch systems, Any attempt to shift
into lower gear with clutch pedal depressed may
result damage to the clutch system. Shifting into
lower gear and releasing the clutch may result in
engine damage.
• When descending a hill, be very careful to down-
shift one gear at a time to prevent overspeeding
the engine which can cause engine damage,
and/or clutch damage, even if the clutch pedal is
pressed. If transfer case is in low range the vehicle
5 to 6
56 (90)
41 (66)
7
(Continued)