Sequential Sportshift Mode
When the paddle shifter + (upshift switch) or the paddle shifter - (downshift switch) is pressed while in the Sport Mode, the sequential sportshift mode comes into operation. The shift indicator displays the number of the selected gear. In the sequential sportshift mode, the driver can shift up and down manually from 1st through 6th gear by using the paddle shifters, much like a manual transmission. The paddle shifters are installed on the back of the steering wheel, and the driver can shift gears by pressing the paddle shifters without taking either hand off the steering wheel. In the sequential sportshift mode, the transmission must be shifted up and down by pressing the paddle shifters. However, if the vehicle is coasting at a speed that would cause the engine to over-rev by downshifting, the transmission will not shift when the paddle shifter - is pressed. The shift indicator blinks the number of the selected gear position several times, then returns to the current gear. If the vehicle speed reaches an appropriate speed while the shift indicator is blinking, the transmission downshifts and the shift indicator displays the selected gear. Likewise, if the vehicle is driving below an appropriate speed to upshift when the paddle shifter + is pressed, the transmission will not shift. The shift indicator blinks the number of the selected gear several times, and then returns to the number of the current gear. If the vehicle speed reaches an appropriate upshift speed while the shift indicator is blinking, the transmission upshifts and the shift indicator displays the selected gear. The sequential sportshift mode has automatic downshifting areas so the vehicle can run smoothly with more power to cope with upcoming acceleration. When coasting in 6th gear, 5th gear, or 4th gear, the transmission downshifts to the next lower gear if the vehicle slows down to the programmed speed, or by pressing the brake pedal. When the transmission decelerates to a stop, the transmission shifts to 1st gear automatically. The transmission can be shifted to 2nd gear by pressing the paddle shifter + while the vehicle is stopped, and the vehicle can start off in 2nd gear. The sequential sportshift mode is canceled when the paddle shifter + (upshift switch) is held for several seconds or when the Sport Mode is canceled.