147
Driving
With a sporty driving style , characterised by sudden acceleration, heavy ac-
celeration, speeds that often increase and decrease and maximum speed,
the gearbox adapts to this driving style when the accelerator is pressed fully
down (kick-down) by shifting down as quickly as possible and can even
shift down by several gears at once.
Selecting the best driving programmes is an endless job. Regardless of this,
the driver can also make the gearbox switch to a more dynamic gear shift
programme by pressing the accelerator quickly. This makes the automatic
gearbox shift down into a lower gear that would normally apply to the cur-
rent speed for more rapid acceleration (e.g. to overtake another vehicle)
without having to press the accelerator fully down into the kick-down posi-
tion. On shifting up in a corresponding driving style, the gearbox returns to
the original programme.
When driving along mountain roads, the gearbox adapts to the gradients.
This avoids having to frequently change gears when driving uphill. In Tip-
tronic mode, it is possible to shift down manually when driving downhill to
use the braking effect of the engine.
Back-up programme
A back-up programme exists in case of faults.
In the event of a fault in the gearbox electronics, this will continue to work
in one of the corresponding back-up programmes. All segments of the
screen are lit up or switched off.
The fault can be seen as follows:
● The gearbox only engages certain gears
● Reverse gear R cannot be engaged
● The manual gearbox switches off in the back-up programme
Note
If the gearbox switches to the back-up programme, visit an Authorised Serv-
ice as soon as possible to solve the problem.
Manual release of the selector lever
Fig. 108 Manual release
of the selector lever
If there is a fault in the power system to the electronic selector lev-
er lock system (flat battery, blown fuse) or the system itself is faul-
ty, the selector lever cannot be moved from position P in the nor-
mal manner, which prevents the vehicle from being moved. The se-
lector lever must be unlocked using the manual release.
– Apply the handbrake.
– Pull gently on both sides at the front of the selector lever cover.
– Also loosen the cover at the rear.
– Press the yellow plastic part with your finger in the direction in-
dicated by the arrow ⇒
Fig. 108.
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications
229
Description of the data
Weights
Kerb weight refers to the basic model with a fuel tank filled to 90% capacity
and without optional extras. The figure quoted includes 75 kg to allow for
the weight of the driver.
For special versions and optional equipment fittings or for the addition of
accessories, the weight of the vehicle will increase ⇒
.
WARNING
● Please note that the centre of gravity may shift when transporting
heavy objects; this may affect the vehicle's handling and lead to an acci-
dent. Always adjust your speed and driving style to suit road conditions
and requirements.
● Never exceed the gross axle weight rating or the gross vehicle weight
rating. If the allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded,
the driving characteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to acci-
dents, injuries and damage to the vehicle.
Towing a trailer Trailer weights
Trailer weight
The trailer weights and drawbar loads approved are selected in intensive tri-
als according to precisely defined criteria. The approved trailer weights are
valid for vehicles in the EU for maximum speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph) (in
certain circumstances up to 100 km/h, 62 mph). The figures may be differ-
ent in other countries. All data in the official vehicle documentation takes
precedence over these data at all times ⇒
.Drawbar load
The maximum permitted drawbar load on the ball joint of the towing bracket
must not exceed
75 kg.
In the interest of road safety, we recommend that you always tow approach-
ing the maximum drawbar load. The response of the trailer on the road will
be poor if the drawbar load is too small.
If the maximum permissible drawbar load cannot be met (e.g. with small,
empty and light-weight single axle trailers or tandem axle trailers with a
wheelbase of less than 1 metre), a minimum of 4% of the actual trailer
weight is legally required for the drawbar load.
WARNING
● For safety reasons, do not exceed the 80 km/h (50 mph) limit. This is
also valid in countries where higher speeds are permitted.
● Never exceed the maximum trailer weights or the drawbar load. If the
permissible axle load or the permissible total weight is exceeded, the
driving characteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents,
injuries and damage to the vehicle.
Wheels
Tyre pressure, snow chains, wheel bolts
Tyre pressures
The sticker with the tyre pressure values can be found on the inside of the
fuel tank flap. The tyre pressure values given there are for cold tyres. Do not
reduce the slightly raised pressures of warm tyres ⇒
.
Snow chains
Snow chains may be fitted only to the front wheels.
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications
