2008 Subaru Impreza Owner's Manual - Page 239

Starting and operating 7-17 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. & 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. Non-turbo models Shift up 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th Turbo models Shift up 1st to 2nd 2nd to 3rd 3rd to 4th 4th to 5th mph (km/h) 16 (26) 27 (43) 38 (61) 50 (81) the red area if these speeds are exceeded. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. Non-turbo models 1st 2nd 3rd Turbo models 1st 2nd 3rd mph (km/h) 34 (54) 59 (95) 85 (136) mph (km/h) 31 (50) 52 (84) 75 (120) 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. mph (km/h) 14 (23) 24 (39) 35 (57) 47 (76) Never exceed the posted speed limit. 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 engine over-revving and this in turn can result in engine damage. In addition, sudden application of engine brakes when the vehicle is travelling on a slippery surface can lead to wheel locking; as a conse- CONTINUED - NOTE (non-turbo models only) To protect the engine while the shift lever is in the neutral position, the engine is controlled so that the engine speed does not become too high even if the accelerator pedal is fully depressed. ! Maximum allowable speeds The following tables show the maximum speeds that are possible with each different gear. Never exceed the speed limit listed in the following table for each gear position except for brief acceleration in an emergency. The tachometer's needle will enter