This hybrid vehicle combines electric and gasoline propulsion to provide breakthrough performance and improved efficiency.
Familiarizing yourself with these unique characteristics will provide an optimal driving experience from your new vehicle.
Note:   You may notice higher engine speeds upon start-up. This temporary condition is normal and necessary to heat up the cabin and minimize emissions.
Starting:
Ready to Drive  When you start your vehicle, a green ready indicator light will appear in the lower right portion of the instrument cluster and a ready to drive message will appear in the middle of the left cluster screen, letting you know that your vehicle is ready for driving.
The engine may not start because this vehicle is equipped with silent key start. This fuel saving feature allows your vehicle to be ready–to–drive without requiring the gas engine to be running. This indicator will remain on while your vehicle is on, whether the engine is running or not to indicate your vehicle is capable of movement (using its electric motor, engine, or both). Typically, the engine will not start unless the vehicle is cold, a climate control change is requested, or the accelerator is pressed.
Driving:
The gas engine automatically starts and stops to provide power when needed and to save fuel when not needed. While coasting at low speeds, coming to a stop, or standing, the gas engine normally shuts down and your vehicle operates in electric-only mode.
Conditions that may cause the engine to start up or remain running include:
  • Considerable vehicle acceleration.
  • Vehicle speed above 85 mph (137 km/h). However, the maximum speed for electric-only operation may be lower while driving in hot temperatures or on hilly terrain.
  • Ascending a hill.
  • Charge level of high voltage battery is low.
  • Very high or low outside temperature (to provide system cooling or heating).
  • Engine not warm enough to provide passenger requested cabin temperature.
Stopping:
The gas engine may shut off to conserve fuel as you come to a stop. Restarting your vehicle is not required. Simply step on the accelerator when you are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation:
Due to the technologically advanced, electronically-controlled continuously variable transaxle, you will not feel shift changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note:   Since engine speed is controlled by the transmission, it may seem elevated at times. This is normal hybrid operation and helps deliver fuel efficiency and performance.
Neutral:
We recommend that you do not idle the vehicle in neutral (N) for an extended period of time because this will discharge your high voltage battery, shut off your air conditioning and heating, and decrease fuel economy. The engine will not start or stop, and cannot provide power to the hybrid system in neutral (N).
Low:
Low (L) is designed to mimic the enhanced engine braking available in non-hybrid vehicles. Low gear will produce high engine speeds to provide necessary engine braking. This is normal and will not damage your vehicle. In low gear, the gas engine will remain on more often than in drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to 22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage battery. A cool battery maintains battery life and provides the best possible performance. The high voltage battery is cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes in the trim panels behind the rear seats. Avoid placing objects at the vent holes that block airflow to the high voltage battery.
Engine:
The engine speed in your hybrid is not directly tied to your vehicle speed. Your vehicle's engine and transmission are designed to deliver the power you need at the most efficient engine speed. During heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach high engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you may see the engine speed changing without your input. This is intentional and maintains the battery charge level. You may also notice during extended downhill driving that your engine continues to run instead of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine stays on, but it is not using any fuel. You may also hear a slight whine or whistle when operating your vehicle. This is the normal operation of the electric generator in the hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery may become disconnected or disabled. Once the battery is reconnected and after driving the vehicle, the engine may continue to operate for three to five seconds after the key is turned to off. This is a normal condition.
Braking:
Your hybrid is equipped with standard hydraulic braking and regenerative braking. Regenerative braking is performed by your transmission and it captures brake energy and stores it in your high voltage battery.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:   Having your engine running is not always an indication of inefficiency. In some cases, it is actually more efficient than driving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve throughout your hybrid's break-in period. As with any vehicle, your driving habits and accessory usage can significantly impact your fuel economy. For best results, keep in mind these tips:
  • Keep the tires properly inflated and only use the recommended size.
  • Aggressive driving increases the amount of energy required to move your vehicle. In general, you can achieve better fuel economy with mild to moderate acceleration and deceleration. Moderate braking is particularly important since it allows you to maximize the energy captured by the regenerative braking system.
Additional Tips:
  • Do not carry extra loads.
  • Be mindful of adding external accessories that may increase aerodynamic drag.
  • Observe posted speed limits.
  • Perform all scheduled maintenance.
  • There is no need to wait for your engine to warm up. The vehicle is ready to drive immediately after starting.
EV+ Mode
Your vehicle will recognize your frequent destinations and allow for more EV driving as you approach them. For example, when nearing your home it should be easier to stay in electric mode. The EV indicator will display EV+ when this mode is active. You should see this approximately 660 ft (200 m) from a frequent destination. See  Information Displays . 
Note:   Frequent destinations are learned by your vehicle after two to four weeks of use. To add a destination immediately, perform the following process: cycle the ignition on for 2 seconds, but do not start your vehicle, then off for 2 seconds. Repeat the process 10 times. This location is now programmed for EV+. You can clear these destinations with a Driving History reset through the Settings menu.
Note:   You can switch the EV+ feature on or off through the Driver Assist section of the Settings menu.