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The Nissan Maxima sees no major changes following its redesign for the 2009 model year. Two trim levels are available: 3.5 S and 3.5 SV. 3.5 SVs can further be equipped with a Sport Package that features equipment such as 19-inch wheels, sport suspension, faux metallic interior trim, heated leather seats, and power tilt and telescopic heated steering wheel. Also offered on the 3.5 SV is a Premium Package, which includes a heated and cooled driver seat, rearview camera, and power rear sunshade. All Maximas are powered by a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic. A manual shift gate is standard; paddle shifters are optional. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. Keyless access and engine start and a wireless cell-phone link are standard. Available equipment includes satellite radio with real-time traffic information, a 9.3-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital-music files, and rear-seat climate and audio controls.
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, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord sedan, Honda Accord coupe, Mazda 6, Mercury Milan, and Toyota Prius. Our Recommended picks are the Kia Rondo, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chrysler Sebring, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord Crosstour, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Suzuki Kizashi, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius. Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan also gain gas/electric hybrid models for 2010.