Auto 'box 'HOLD' switch - does it save fuel?

Does using the 'HOLD' switch on the Subaru Forester's auto gearbox reduce fuel consumption? And is there any downside to using it other than reduced acceleration?

Asked on 6 January 2014 by Anton2

Answered by Honest John
That should lock it in top gear, but obviously this will cause problems on an undulating road. Best only used on relatively flat motorways and dual carriageways.
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