2006 Mercedes R-Class Owner's Manual - Page 204

Controls in detail Automatic transmission Driving tips Accelerator position Your driving style influences the transmission's shifting behavior: Less throttle More throttle Kickdown Use kickdown when you want maximum acceleration. Press the accelerator past the point of resistance. The transmission shifts into a lower gear. Ease on the accelerator when you have reached the desired speed. The transmission shifts up again. Earlier upshifting Later upshifting Stopping When you stop briefly, e.g. at traffic lights: Leave the transmission in gear. Hold the vehicle with the brake. When you stop for a longer period of time with the engine idling and/or on a hill: Set the parking brake. Shift into park position P. Maneuvering When you maneuver in tight areas, e.g. when pulling into a parking space: Control the vehicle speed by gradually releasing the brakes. Accelerate gently. Never abruptly step on the accelerator. Effect ç The transmission shifts through second gear only. Allows the use of engine's braking power when driving: on steep downgrades in mountainous regions under extreme operating conditions æ The transmission operates in first gear only. For maximum use of engine's braking effect on very steep or lengthy downgrades. 203