2nd HOLD CONTROL (IN MANUAL MODE)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester, 2012 Subaru Forester, 2011 Subaru Forester, and 2010 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the "+" switch is operated when the vehicle is in Manual mode and not moving, the transmission shifts to 2nd speed enabling start in 2nd. This status is held unless the manual mode is canceled, or a speed other than 2nd is selected with the "-" switch. Also, the transmission is held in 2nd when the vehicle is stopped.