2009 Nissan Maxima: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Nissan Maxima is redesigned, gaining fresh styling and more power. Two trim levels are available: 3.5 S and 3.5 SV. 3.5 SVs can further be equipped with a Sport or Premium package that features upgraded equipment such as 19-inch wheels, woodgrain or faux carbon fiber interior trim, heated leather seats and steering wheel, and power rear sunshades. All are powered by a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6, an increase of 35 hp over 2008 Maximas. A continuously variable automatic (CVT) with a manual shift gate and optional paddle shifters is the only transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Leather upholstery is standard on SV. Nissan's dual-panel tinted moonroof is also available; a conventional sunroof is standard. Other optional equipment includes satellite radio with real-time traffic information; a 9.3 gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music files; rear seat climate and audio controls; a rearview camera; an iPod interface system; heated front seats with a cooled driver seat; and a wireless cell phone link.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family-oriented sedans and wagons. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 5, Saturn Aura, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, and Nissan Maxima.