Using 6th @ 'low Speeds'

[kweilo]

So, after one week of the Lexus, I'm still bouncing off the walls with joy.

Now I've found myself cruising along at say 40mph, and I've ended up in 6th, which is about 2200 rpm (depending on conditions, the road etc).

Is this a bad thing for the engine?

My Bimmer used to cope quite happily with 40 and 5th, but obviously the driving characteristics of the cars are different.

So, any thoughts as to whether or not this is ok to do? The MPG needle certainly appreciates it....

[Gord]

So, after one week of the Lexus, I'm still bouncing off the walls with joy.

Now I've found myself cruising along at say 40mph, and I've ended up in 6th, which is about 2200 rpm (depending on conditions, the road etc).

Is this a bad thing for the engine?

My Bimmer used to cope quite happily with 40 and 5th, but obviously the driving characteristics of the cars are different.

So, any thoughts as to whether or not this is ok to do? The MPG needle certainly appreciates it....

Yes its ok :D i do the same sort of thing in the Audi, but the rev's are 1100rpm :D

[Paradroid]

I don't think it's a bad thing for the engine but personally I'd be in 4th at that speed, it means you have some acceleration ready in case you need it or get to an incline, and if you're light on the gas pedal it should still be economical.

But, once you get to about 45-50 in the IS200 in 4th gear the revs do seem a bit high, so I'd go to 5th at that speed.