2004 Subaru Impreza Owner's Manual - Page 282

Starting and operating Shift into reverse ONLY when the vehicle has completely stopped. It may cause damage to the transmission to try shifting into reverse when the vehicle is moving. ! Shifting speeds ! Recommended shifting speeds The best compromise between fuel economy and vehicle performance during normal driving is ensured by shifting up at the speeds listed in the following table. Shift up 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th mph (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72) 50 (80) ! Maximum allowable speeds The following tables show the maximum speeds that are possible with each different gear. The tachometer's needle will enter the red area if these speeds are exceeded. With the exception of cases where sudden acceleration is required, the vehicle should not be driven with the tachometer's needle inside the red area. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. Gear 1st 2nd 3rd 4th mph (km/h) 35 (57) 55 (88) 73 (118) 96 (154) When shifting down a gear, ensure that the vehicle is not travelling at a speed exceeding the Maximum Allowable Speed for the gear which is about to be selected. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to engine over-revving and - CONTINUED - 7-13