2008 Subaru Impreza Owner's Manual - Page 237

Starting and operating 7-15 WARNING Do not drive the vehicle with the clutch disengaged (i.e., when the clutch pedal is depressed) or with the shift lever in the neutral position. Engine braking has no effect in either of these conditions and the risk of an accident is consequently increased. pedal, move the shift lever, and gradually let up on the clutch. If it is difficult to shift into gear, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again. CAUTION 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. & Selecting reverse gear ! Maximum allowable speeds The following table shows 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 5th 6th mph (km/h) 34 (55) 56 (90) 82 (132) 110 (177) 129 (208) Top speed & 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 1) Slider 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th 5th to 6th mph (km/h) 15 (24) 25 (40) 40 (64) 45 (72) 50 (80) WARNING 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 - CONTINUED - You must raise the slider and hold it in that position before you can move the shift lever to the "R" position. To change gears, fully depress the clutch