Engine braking

[UtahDave]

Great posts. My view is engine braking is a function of displacement, but modern computers can defeat simplicity.
My RAM 2500 has no problem on long down grades thanks to an exhaust brake system.

My LC is sort of out of control on huge, miles long and steep grades unless I take care. I know how to manage it but it's frustrating grinding down in 4L. It must be a function of the grade. My guess is the break point is around 6 to 8 percent grades. I need to gather data.

Like Colorado, Utah has some huge decent grades. After burning up the rear brakes on my Audi SQ5 on long grades in cruise, I'm cautious.

 

[Area 51]

Nothing will happen with this tiny piss ant 4 cyl, low inertia, motor. No turbo wastegate braking mode, duh.
That's why the brakes are so good, full burden load rated.

 

[WookieBait]

I'm only 2500mi in, but I've had the little beast in quite a few steeps now. As in this thread, I do believe it is the nature of our new 4 banger high flow engines that are in everything now. I mentioned elsewhere I had a Bronco as a rental, and it was only slightly better. So don't think it's unique to the new LC. I have an LX470 that will damn near gear down to a stop on any slope, but it's a V8.

It will take some getting used to, and a careful eye on brake temps. My plan is to get about 20k short miles and do complete upgrades on brakes.

It's amazing the myriad trade offs we make to satisfy the CAFE and emissions standards. I'd hazard in most cases it's more costly, less safe, and at least a wash if not worse for the environment.

Using the brakes is nice and all but on wet, snowy, icy roads I'd feel way more comfortable letting engine braking keep the speed down rather than needing to ride the brakes downhill.