2009 Suzuki SX4 Owner's Manual - Page 180

Highway Driving: NO Driving on Hills: NO DRIVING TIPS Highway Driving When driving at highway speeds, pay attention to the following: • Stopping distance progressively increases with vehicle speed. Apply the brakes far enough ahead of the stopping point to allow for the extra stopping distance. • On rainy days, "Hydroplaning" can occur. "Hydroplaning" is the loss of direct contact between the road surface and the vehicle's tires due to a water film forming between them. Steering or braking the vehicle while "Hydroplaning" can be very difficult, and loss of control can occur. Keep speed down when the road surface is wet. • At high speeds, the vehicle may be affected by side winds. Therefore, reduce speed and be prepared for unexpected buffeting, which can occur at the exits of tunnels, when passing by a cut of a hill, or when being overtaken by large vehicles, etc. Driving on Hills 52D078S WARNING • Wear Your Seat Belts at All Times. Even though air bags are equipped at the front seating positions, the driver and all passengers should be properly restrained at all times, using the seat belts provided. Refer to the "Seat Belts and Child Restraint Systems" section for instructions on proper use of the seat belts. • Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Alcohol and drugs can seriously impair your ability to drive safely, greatly increasing the risk of injury to yourself and others. You should also avoid driving when you are tired, sick, irritated or under stress. 77J029S • When climbing steep hills, the car may begin to slow down and show a lack of power. If this happens, you should shift to a lower gear so that the engine will again be operating in its normal power range. Shift rapidly to prevent the car from losing momentum. • When driving down a hill, the engine should be used for braking by shifting to next lower gear. (Do this with EITHER an automatic or manual transaxle.) 7-1 80J22-03E