Automatic Transaxle
Manual Shift Mode
The manual shift mode gives you the feel of driving a manual transaxle vehicle by allowing you to operate the selector lever manually. This allows you to control engine rpm and torque to the drive wheels much like a manual transaxle when more control is desired.
To change to manual shift mode, shift the lever from D to M.
To return to automatic shift mode, shift the lever from M to D.
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If you change to manual shift mode when the vehicle is stopped, the gear will shift to M1.
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If you change to manual shift mode without depressing the accelerator pedal when driving in D range, 5th gear/6th gear, the gear will shift to M4/M5.
Second Gear Fixed Mode
When the selector lever is moved back 
while the vehicle speed is about 10 km/h (6.2 mph) or less, the transaxle is set in the second gear fixed mode. The gear is fixed in second while in this mode for easier acceleration from a stop and driving on slippery roads such as snow-covered roads.
If the selector lever is moved back or forward 
while in the second gear fixed mode, the mode will be canceled.
Recommendations for Shifting
Upshifting
For normal acceleration and cruising, Mazda recommends these shift points:
|
Gear |
Vehicle speed*1 |
|---|---|
|
M1 to M2 |
24 km/h (15 mph) |
|
M2 to M3 |
40 km/h (25 mph) |
|
M3 to M4 |
65 km/h (40 mph) |
|
M4 to M5 |
73 km/h (45 mph) |
|
M5 to M6 |
81 km/h (50 mph) |
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Always observe local speed limit regulations.
Downshifting
When you must slow down in heavy traffic or on a steep upgrade, downshift before the engine starts to overwork. This gives better acceleration when you need more speed.
On a steep downgrade, downshifting helps maintain safe speed and prolongs brake life.
