Volvo XC90: Starting and driving / The kickdown function
Kickdown can be used when maximum acceleration is needed e.g. when passing.
When the accelerator pedal is depressed all the way to the floor (past the normal
full accelerator position), the transmission will automatically engage kickdown,
i.e. immediately shift down to a lower gear.
If the accelerator pedal is released from the kickdown position, the transmission
will automatically shift up again.
Safety function
The transmission control module is equipped with a downshift protection feature
to help prevent the engine from overheating.
In some conditions, the transmission will prevent downshifting/kickdown if this
would lead to such high engine speed (rpm) that the engine could be damaged. If
the driver still attempts downshifting or kickdown at a high rpm, nothing will happen
and the original gear will remain selected.
With kickdown, the vehicle can downshift one or more steps at a time depending
on the engine speed. The vehicle upshifts when the engine reaches its maximum rpm
to prevent engine damage.
(The function is not available for vehicles with the small gear selector.)
If the vehicle does not have electrical current, the automatic shiftlock may
be disengaged on vehicles equipped with the large gear selector...
(Option/accessory.)
Launch can be used to provide maximum acceleration from a standstill. The
function is available for the drive modes: Dynamic, Comfort and
Individual...
Other information:
Speed-dependent power steering increases the steering wheel resistance in
pace with the vehicle's speed, which can help give the driver an enhanced feeling
of control and stability. Steering is stiffer on highways. When parking and at low
speeds, it will be easier to move the steering wheel...
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC1) function helps the driver
avoid skidding and improves the vehicle's directional stability.
This symbol will be displayed in
the instrument panel when the system is intervening.
When the system has intervened to apply the brakes, a pulsing sound may be heard
and the vehicle may accelerate more slowly than expected when the accelerator pedal
is depressed...