Vehicle type: 4 door Sedan
Price Range: $26,900-$28,900

Pros:
New Styling
Engine
Fun To Drive
Room/Comfort

Cons:
Too many look-alike dash buttons

Overview

The new for ’04 Maxima is Nissans follow up to the big hit of 2002, The Altima. Once again, Nissan has delivered the goods. The Maxima is bigger and better than ever before. In fact, the Maxima has gone upscale while the Altima does battle with the Camrys and Accords of the world. Competitors now include the Acura 3.2 TL, Audi A4 and the Chrysler 300M. The new Maxima rides on a 3 “ longer wheelbase and it’s 2” longer than last year, while width has been increased 1.3” New styling is bold inside and out. Power has been increased to 260 horsepower. Two trim lines are offered: The sporty SE and the more luxurious SL. Prices start at $26,900
Under the hood

Nissan calls the Maxima ‘The Four-door Sports Car’ with good reason. Opt for the 6-speed manual and you’ll make the 0-60 MPH dash in only 6.5 seconds. Based on my experience the 5-speed automatic won’t be far behind. Interestingly, a 4 speed automatic is the only transmission offered in the SL. Both cars come with Nissans DOHC 3.5 liter V6 cranking out 260 horses. Again this year, Wards Autoworld has awarded this engine one of it’s 10 best of 2003 for all vehicles under $52,500. By the way, this is the 9th straight year it’s received this distinction. Quite an accomplishment. It is truly an amazing engine both of terms of smooth power delivery and quiet operation. Expect 20 MPG around town and 29 on the highway.

Behind the wheel

Maximas have always been fun to drive and for ’04 the tradition continues. In spite of it’s FWD chassis, the Maxima feels balanced with quick steering and a responsive suspension. SE drivers get even more cornering ability with the standard sport suspension and 18” wheels. The smoother riding SL comes with 17” tires on aluminum alloy wheels. Some torque steer is evident under hard acceleration but it’s not excessive. 4-wheel disc ABS disc brakes are standard on both trim lines and stops are smooth and sure. Vehicle Dynamic Control adds stability and includes traction control. Ride quality is excellent. The powerful engine and smooth shifting yet responsive transmission make passing and mountain driving a breeze.

Interior

The big news here is rear bucket seats. Order up the ‘Elite Package’ and your rear passengers will have buckets with a spacious center console including available heated rear seats. A heated steering wheel is part of the package too. Those in the back will have their own ‘Sunshade’ too. What’s a ‘Sunshade’? The Maxima has a long narrow sunroof called ‘Skyview’ that opens up the entire length of the interior to let the sunshine in. The tinted glass panel includes 2 interior shades and power shades are optional. Skyview gives the Maxima a distinctive look inside and out. A conventional sunroof is available but I liked the look and functionality of Skyview. Options include The ‘Journey Package’ with navigation and a message center called ‘Integrated Center Display. This unit shows average speed, fuel economy, distance to empty along with outside temp. SE models can be ordered with the ‘Sensory Package’ including heated leather power front seats and an 8 speaker Bose audio system. Power tilting and telescoping steering along with power folding mirrors are available. Dual zone temp control is standard on all Maximas. The cabin is quiet with excellent front seats and good rear passenger leg and hip room. One of the few interior flaws is the row of same size buttons across the front of the dash under the information screen. Note to designers industry wide: KEEP IT SIMPLE!

Safety

In addition to dual stage driver and passenger air bags, Nissan has added front and rear head curtain air bags. Active front seat head restraints are standard. High intensity discharge xenon headlights are standard. The Maxima uses zone body construction allowing the body to absorb more crash impact reducing injuries. Latch child restraint system allows you to secure a latch compatible seat without using the seat belts. The vehicle security system features an chip in the ignition switch preventing others from starting the vehicle. Of course, remote keyless entry is standard.

Conclusion

The all the Maxima is a terrific car. Sporty drivers will choose the SE for it’s available 6 speed and suspension upgrade. The SL is more luxurious but with the same 265 horsepower engine it’s also fun to drive. The new styling, with a hint of Audi in the roofline, will be well received. It’s comfortable and safe for the whole family. Former Maxima drivers will be delighted with the new car and those in the market for a near luxury sporty sedan must put the Maxima on their shopping list. The 4-door sports car is now better than ever.

Tom Collins
5/14/03