Using Engine Braking - Lexus RX300 2001 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND DRIVING
(c) Using engine braking
31R045
To use the braking power of the engine, downshift the
transmission in the way described below:
1 Push the overdrive switch. (This is effective only when
you are driving in the "D" position.) The "O/D OFF"
indicator light in the instrument cluster will come on and
the transmission will downshift to third gear.
When the cruise control is being used, even if you
downshift the transmission by pushing and releasing the
overdrive switch, engine braking will not be enabled
because the cruise control is not cancelled. If you need
to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 190.
184
2 Shift into the "2" position. The transmission will downshift
to second gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or
lower than the following speed, and stronger engine
braking will be enabled.
Two–wheel drive models
Four–wheel drive models
3
Shift into the "L" position. The transmission will downshift
to first gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or
lower than the following speed, and maximum engine
braking will be enabled.
Two–wheel drive models
Four–wheel drive models
Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface.
The abrupt change in engine speed could cause the
vehicle to spin or skid.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U)
113 km/h (70 mph)
106 km/h (65 mph)
51 km/h (31 mph)
48 km/h (29 mph)
CAUTION