Nissan Maxima — Quirky in Style, Quality for Miles

Last month the Nissan Altima was on the top ten list and this month Nissan is back, this time with the more refined Maxima model at number four. Like the Altima, the Nissan Maxima is a mid-sized sedan. But, where the Altima is Nissan’s family sedan the Maxima pursues consumers of a more specific taste. Focusing on performance and style the Maxima is not especially well suited for the family. It is however very well suited for the individual in search of a luxurious, powerful, stylish and smooth riding car. These are the features that have earned the Maxima fourth place on this months used car top ten list.

Styling That Turns Heads

The first thing one noticed when walking up to a recent year model used Maxima is the sharp modern lines that define the overall shape of the vehicle. The Maxima is no wallflower. Especially in year models since 2004, the Maxima sports the kind of styling that turns heads. Some find it odd looking, but few don’t notice it as it passes. From the aerodynamic rounded rectangular front end to the sloping tail with an almost non-existent trunk lid the Maxima says look at me at the top of its lungs.

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Ergonomically Smart

And the style doesn’t stop at the doors. Inside the Nissan Maxima is as comfortable as it is innovative. The seats are wide and luxurious yet offer a firm support, stopping just short of being soft. The dash sports a smart three gauge cluster and the interior trim has a cool titanium look in the SE and a slightly warmer, though less modern faux wood in the SL. The steering wheel is adjustable both in through tilting and telescoping and most controls are easy to use and well within reach. some labeling is difficult to read but this usually isn’t an issue once one is familiar with their vehicle. Probably the most noticeable feature though is the standard skyview sunroof that runs lengthwise across the roof of the car. Some may find this feature not to their liking and for those Altima models with moonroofs were available, so look for a used model with the specific features you desire.

The Maxima Power Plant

Under the hood you will find a 3.5 liter V6 that delivers an admirable 265 hp to the front wheels via a five speed automatic transmission. The Maxima is no speed demon but has more than adequate power. Where the car really shines is in ride quality. The multi link rear suspension offers a smooth quiet ride that is reminiscient of cars with much higher price tags.Steering is accurate, though sometimes a bit slow, and body roll is minimal.

Loaded for Safety

Safety wise the Maxima is right with other cars in its class. Frontal impact tests earned the maxima five stars for the driver and four for front seat passenger and side impact tests registered four stars for both front and rear seat occupants. Among the safety features are 4 wheel ABS, Front seat front and side airbags child seat anchors and a trunk release.

Instrument Panel is Easy on the Eyes

All in all this car is a conglomeration of lots of really cool styling and features. It is not the kind of car that is going to suit everyone’s tastes, but through its quirkyness it finds a unique appeal and grabs a market segment that many manufacturers are afraid to approach. More specifically, it offers power and driveability that easily hold up to the competition and make this more than just a style seekers automobile. Due to this combination of featurs the Nissan Maxima is a car worthy of the consideration of anyone in the market for a quality used mid-sized sedan and a great addition to Brad Your Car Guy’s Top Ten List of Used cars for January of 2009.

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