The Outback can simulate a manual transmission with six programmed speeds that hold the CVT pulleys in fixed positions. You can use manual mode by moving the lever to “M” and using the paddle shifters, or (temporarily) by using the paddle shifters while you’re driving in automatic mode (select lever at the “D” position). When shifting to “M” you do not need to press the brakes or press the button on the lever.
Avoid downshifting in place of braking when approaching traffic lights or other frequent, daily stops. While many people may do this, Subaru technical representatives note that downshifting “is only recommended in situations where the engine braking would be needed, such as when descending a grade. Normally, a driver would have no need to engine brake when just coming to a stop at a light or stop sign. Since the transmission is not designed to handle this, it would accelerate wear on the CVT. " [1] X Research source
If you move the lever into manual mode, you can return to automatic mode simply by moving the lever back to “D”. If you use the paddle shifters while driving with the lever in the “D” position, the car will return to auto mode when it senses a significant change in throttle position. You can trigger this by accelerating. Alternatively, you can shift the lever into manual mode (“M”) and right back to auto mode (“D”).
The higher the RPM, the more power to pull, but the worst fuel economy. The lower the rpm, the better the fuel economy but less torque to tow with.
When at steady speed in full auto mode, the Subaru’s CVT system keeps RPMs low for fuel efficiency; pushing down the accelerator very rapidly increases torque, but the RPMs still need to build up. Downshifting raises the RPMs so when you accelerate, you don’t have to wait for the RPMs to catch up. [2] X Research source Always check your blind spot by turning your head before changing lanes.
