2009 Nissan Maxima: Road Test
2009 Nissan Maxima ▼
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- MSRP: $30,160 - $32,860
- Invoice: $27,628 - $30,097
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Our road test for the 2009 Nissan Maxima includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Nissan Maxima from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Nissan Maxima, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Nissan Maxima help you decide if a 2009 Nissan Maxima is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Acceleration can be lazy from a stop, but Maxima gathers speed quickly once rolling. It has reserves of power at the ready for highway maneuvers. The CVT is seamless in operation, though it doesn't impart a sporty feeling, which is what Nissan wants Maxima to be.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 18.8 mpg with slightly more city use than highway driving. Other Maxima test cars averaged 20.1-22.4 mpg with more highway use. Maxima requires premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Generally comfortable, though all Maximas have trouble coping with highway bumps and expansion joints. There is no discernible difference in the SV Sport with its 19-inch wheels.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 5.9 |
Generally nimble, though non-Sport Package models feel a bit ponderous in fast corners. The brakes are strong and responsive, but the pedal can be touchy. Some slight torque steer is noticeable during brisk acceleration.
QUIETNESS
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Engine emits a throaty, sporty note at higher rpm. Some droning heard at highway speed. Sport Package includes an extra dose of sound deadening, making Maximas so equipped slightly quieter. All models suffer from moderate wind noise and tire thrum.
CONTROLS
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Maxima's controls are clear and logically placed. SV's large center-mounted trip computer screen offers little of value on models without the navigation system. Navigation system is easy to use, and does not complicate audio functions. The available iPod interface system makes easy work of controlling the device through the stereo system.
DETAILS
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Soft-touch surfaces are just OK in appearance, which is disappointing given Maxima's upscale pretensions. Sport Package includes "piano key" faux carbon fiber trim which imparts a sporty flair. One test car suffered from malfunctioning windshield washers.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Maxima's seats are very comfortable and supportive. SV is equipped with a thigh extender for more support. Headroom and legroom are generous for those under 6 feet. The available heated steering wheel is a nice touch not often found in this class.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
Headroom can get tight due to the sloped roofline, and gets even more cramped beneath the sunroof housing. Legroom also disappoints given the car's exterior dimensions. The narrow center position is not suitable for adults or even large children. Doors open wide enough, but entry and exit are still hampered by narrow floor-level passages.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Maxima has a wide-opening trunk lid and a moderately low liftover height. Sport Package models have a fixed seatback with a not-so-useful ski pass through. Other versions have a 60/40 split-folding seatback. Maxima's interior storage spaces are decent and include a large, wide glovebox, deep center console, and small scattered cubbies.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.3 |
This sedan fills the small space between the more sedate Altima and the sportier, premium-level G37 from Nissan's Infiniti division. Maxima offers abundant power and some unexpected features, such as a heated steering wheel. Although Nissan targets Maxima as a "4-door sports car", it's not quite athletic enough to live up to that title. Adding expensive option packages escalates the sticker price to the point where an investment of a few more dollars will buy you a G37, which offers superior interior materials, warranty coverage, customer service, and is more entertaining to drive.
Total Score
| 3.5 SV | 3.5 SV w/Sport Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | 62 | 63 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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