Jaguar Manual Manual | Page 11

ADVANCED TECHNIQUES M  atching revs: Because you release the gas pedal when you shift, engine speed drops. On a downshift, such as when going into a curve or turn, you might feel a jolt when you release the clutch. To avoid that and execute a smooth shift, you need to “match revs.” By tapping the gas pedal before releasing the clutch, you bring engine revs back up to match the transmission’s still-turning gears, resulting in a smoother engagement. U  pshifts for performance: It’s not always necessary to shift at the tachometer’s red line to get maximum acceleration. We dont encourage aggresive or excessively fast driving; doing so on a public road can lead to unfettered hooliganism. Engines have peaks in their horsepower and torque curves, and keeping the engine RPM within this range can provide ideal performance. You’ll get a feel for it. In the Jaguar F-TYPE, the supercharged V6 engine produces high torque at relatively low engine speeds, which yields powerful acceleration from the start and then throughout the power band. There’s no need to shift at redline, as the F-TYPE will sound amazing at any RPM. S  kip-shifting for fuel economy: The gears do not always need to be upshifted sequentially. To reduce engine RPM and improve fuel efficiency, one can select a gear that is numerically two or more higher. A higher gear can be selected as long as the engine is not “lugging,” a condition when the engine speed is too low to accelerate or maintain the desired speed. You’ll know it by the noticeable vibration and lack of acceleration. Think back to the bicycle analogy; if you slow down to enter a turn without downshifting, you may have trouble pedaling as you exit the curve. You’ll feel strain in your legs and not be able to accelerate quickly. HELPFUL TIP: in a sports car like the F-TYPE, skip-shifting is a mood killer. So skip it. E  mergency response: In an emergency braking situation, remember to also push in the clutch pedal to prevent the engine from stalling.After the car comes to a complete stop, simply shift into 1st gear and motor on your way. If it’s not a complete stop, a downshift of one or two gears may suffice. As a qualified manual driver, it is now your responsibility to pass on the knowledge and teach someone else. Long live the manual!