I've noticed something about my GS and I want to know from the experts if I'm just making it up. When driving down a steep hill where I need to keep hitting the brakes to slow down, the car automatically upshifts to use the engine to help. As soon as I step on the gas again, it downshifts right back. There's nothing about this feature in the manual, and I've never had another car with smart enough logic to do this.

So does the GS really do this or is it my imagination?

 

I've noticed that too on my 99 GS3. I guess it's their way of saving gas mileage -- wanting to get to 5th as soon as possible and helps you try engine brake when descenting down a hill? not sure, i got myself confused

 

Iceman,

I think the car really does it. My 98 GS4 never did it, but my 01 GS430 does. I don't know if it was something added, or came with the new 4.3l engine. I like though

 

You are experiencing ECT-i, "electronically controlled transmission with intelligence". It is programmed to anticipate driver needs such as holding a gear when accelerating thru a corner or downshifting on a long downhill grade.

Many mfgrs are utilizing such algorithms to try to have the automatic slushbox act more like a manual transmission car.

 

I think you mean downshift when you brake (to get engine braking) and upshift when you hit the gas again. Mine does this and I think it's a great feature. It's also beneficial because if you're hitting the brakes not only does engine braking help but by putting it in a lower gear means you have more torque available when you're ready to accelerate again.

 

Yes bit, that's exactly what I mean. At least you were able to translate my brain fart into what I MEANT to say...

 

Yeah, I was going to say downshift... Hey, guys I have a problem.. Well not a problem, it's proboly normal.. Ever since I put my Apexi cat-back on. When I downshift the enginebrake doesn't slow me down as much as before like when I had my Borla's on.. It is because there is less pressure because my pipes are bigger now?? That's the only thing I can come up with, can you guys shed any light on this for me?? Thanks..

 

Iceman:

When I reported the problem to the Lexus technician he inform me Lexus have been incorporated engine braking feature while going down steep hills. It only kicks in when travelling steep downhill above 35mph when brake is applied. I find it annoying when I lightly tap the brake and see the engine rpm rises and car slowed too much. I found a fix to this. Upon anticipating a steep downhill I would push the SNOW mode on the transmission ECT switch. Now the car does not downshift unwantingly going down steep downhills. After it levels off I would put it back to POWER mode. Never have to do this in any of my previous Lexus.

Chu...