2009 Pontiac G8 Owner's Manual - Page 175

Driving and Operating While using the DSC mode, the vehicle has firmer shifting and increased performance. This can be used for sport driving or when climbing or descending hills, to stay in gear longer, or to down shift for more power or engine braking. The transmission will only allow the driver to shift into gears appropriate for the vehicle speed and engine Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). The transmission will not automatically shift to the next lower gear if the engine RPM is too high. If shifting is prevented for any reason, the currently selected gear will flash multiple times, indicating that the transmission has not shifted gears. While in the DSC mode, the transmission automatically downshifts when the vehicle comes to a stop. When accelerating the vehicle from a stop in snowy and icy conditions, 1st, 2nd or 3rd gear starts can be selected from a standing start. This is useful for gentle acceleration on slippery surfaces. To return to Normal Shift mode, slide the shift lever over from the right quadrant to the left into D (Drive). A Normal Shift message will be displayed in the DIC. Normal Shift Mode is recommended for normal or freeway driving, as it provides optimum fuel economy. 8-9 Powertrain Braking For vehicles with a 6 speed automatic transmission, there is an additional feature known as Powertrain Braking. When driving on steep descents where frequent braking is required, the vehicle will automatically downshift to provide engine braking assistance. This feature also reduces brake temperatures and wear. Downshifting will only occur when the driver's foot is applied to the brake. Active Select Mode can be switched on to override the feature and gain complete control of shifts if desired.