Suzuki SX4/SX4 SEDAN User Manual

Page 178

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7-1

DRIVING TIPS

80J21-03E

52D078S

Highway Driving

When driving at highway speeds, pay
attention to the following:
• Stopping distance progressively

increases with vehicle speed. Apply the
brakes far enough ahead of the stopping
point to allow for the extra stopping dis-
tance.

• On rainy days, “Hydroplaning” can occur.

“Hydroplaning” is the loss of direct con-
tact between the road surface and the
vehicle’s tires due to a water film forming
between them. Steering or braking the
vehicle while “Hydroplaning” can be very
difficult, and loss of control can occur.
Keep speed down when the road surface
is wet.

• At high speeds, the vehicle may be

affected by side winds. Therefore,
reduce speed and be prepared for unex-
pected buffeting, which can occur at the
exits of tunnels, when passing by a cut of
a hill, or when being overtaken by large
vehicles, etc.

Driving on Hills

77J029S

• When climbing steep hills, the car may

begin to slow down and show a lack of
power. If this happens, you should shift
to a lower gear so that the engine will
again be operating in its normal power
range. Shift rapidly to prevent the car
from losing momentum.

• When driving down a hill, the engine

should be used for braking by shifting to
next lower gear. (Do this with EITHER an
automatic or manual transaxle.)

WARNING

• Wear Your Seat Belts at All Times.

Even though air bags are equipped
at the front seating positions, the
driver and all passengers should
be properly restrained at all times,
using the seat belts provided. Refer
to the “Seat Belts and Child
Restraint Systems” section for
instructions on proper use of the
seat belts.

• Never drive while under the influ-

ence of alcohol or other drugs.
Alcohol and drugs can seriously
impair your ability to drive safely,
greatly increasing the risk of injury
to yourself and others. You should
also avoid driving when you are
tired, sick, irritated or under stress.

Highway Driving: NO
Driving on Hills: NO

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