System Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Infiniti FX50. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

It automatically selects the shift pattern (such as road environment and driving style) suitable for the various situations so as to allow the vehicle to be driven efficiently and smoothly.

When Driving on an Up/Down Slope

ASC judges up/down slope according to engine torque data transmitted from the ECM and vehicle speed. Fixing at 4GR, 5GR or 6GR on an up-slope prevents shift hunting and controls the vehicle to gain optimum driving force. On a down-slope, automatic shift-down to 4GR, 5GR or 6GR gear controls to gain optimum engine brake.

When Driving on a Curve

In driving condition where acceleration, deceleration, or lateral acceleration continues, it corrects gear selection in order to keep a smooth vehicle speed during the curve and to give an adequate driving force at the curve end.
- When acceleration pedal is quickly released at curve entrance etc., it prevents an unnecessary shift-up.
- On braking operation at curve entrance, it gives an early shift-down according to the deceleration.
- In a sporty driving condition, it selects lower gear early even on a light braking operation, giving greater importance on driving force.
TCM receives the side G sensor signal from the ABS actuator and electric unit (control unit). It locks to 4GR, 5GR or 6GR position in moderate cornering or to 3GR position in sharp cornering based on this signal. This prevents any upshift and kick down during cornering, maintaining smooth vehicle travel.

Fig 1: Adaptive Shift Control - System Diagram (When Driving On Up/Down Slope)

Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

DS Mode

Changes to the shift schedule that mainly utilizes the high engine speed zone when ASC is active.
DS mode can be switched according to the following method:
- When the selector lever is in the "D" position, shifting the selector lever to manual shift gate enables switching to DS mode.
- When in DS mode, shifting the selector lever to the main gate enables to cancel DS mode.
- After switching to manual mode with paddle shifter, switching to DS mode can not be enabled even when the selector lever is shifted to the manual gate. (With paddle shifter)