The flagship sedan of the Nissan brand

Overview Information

The Maxima has long been the flagship sedan of the Nissan lineup. Unfortunately with the rise in sales and stature of the Altima, Nissan has struggled to differentiate the Maxima from the Altima and the higher performance models of the Infiniti brand. Thankfully, the latest generation Maxima is striking off in a more stylish and sporting direction. The FWD sedan offers just one powertrain: a 290-bhp, 3.5-liter V6 coupled to a CVT transmission. Two trim levels are offered: S and SV, both are well equipped. An optional dual pane sunroof is similar to the one in the Murano. The stylish exterior and interior along with the slight increase in horsepower should lure some buyers that are not interested in the more mainstream Altima.

What Changed:

Nissan's all-new Maxima wears more striking sheet metal. The interior has been reworked and now bears a stronger resemblance to Nissan's upscale Infiniti products. By switching to Nissan's D platform, the Maxima gains a couple of inches in width and loses almost four inches in length, which should aid handling. The reduction in length reduces the legroom in the rear seat. Although the powertrain remains the same, the output of the 3.5-liter V6 has increased by about 35-bhp and 10 lb-ft of torque. The Maxima retains its CVT transmission but adds a new Ds mode for sportier shift feel.

Official Word:

The 2009 Nissan Maxima, which makes its world debut at the 2008 New York International Auto Show, marks a return to the longtime Nissan flagship sedan's roots as a commanding 4-door sports car - a vehicle that is unique in both appearance and driving feel, with renewed relevance for today's active and ambitious sedan buyers. In other words, the Maxima is back. The all-new 2009 Maxima will be offered as two well-equipped models, Maxima 3.5 S...Read.

Similar Vehicles

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution	2008 Saab 9-3 Sedan	2009 Acura TSX	2009 Audi A4 Sedan	2009 BMW 3-Series Sedan
2009 Infiniti G Sedan	2009 Lexus IS	2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class	2009 Volvo S40

Compare these