REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Wonderfully predictable

After experiencing several years of deficits, Nissan runs the risk of looking like an idol with feet of clay. No doubt its partnership with Renault will help the Japanese builder find its way back to profitability, but the fact remains that it has no margin of error and that each of its new models has to be an unqualified success. So far so good, the new-generation Maxima, the firm’s flagship model, has all it takes to attract buyers.

The elegant and classic Nissan Maxima has always been a favourite with consumers. Its conventional lines and sporty personality make it a prime choice in the eyes of sports sedan enthusiasts, even those who are only a tiny bit adventurous. The dashboard is well-designed and features easy-to-read instruments and easy-to-use controls, all very ergonomically correct. Another plus: a good number of well-positioned storage spaces.

Access to the passenger compartment is easy and the tilt steering wheel and adjustable seats make the driving position outstanding. Front seats are even more comfortable and provide good support and the 60/40 fold down rear bench seat can easily accommodate two adults. Legroom is satisfactory, but anyone over six feet (1.83 m) will find it hard to avoid the tousled look.

The trunk can take on enough baggage to keep four passengers happy though it doesn’t look particularly accommodating and its long rounded hinges eat into cargo space.This front-wheel drive is powered this year by a DOHC 3.5-litre V6 with an output of 255 horses. The same manual five-speed transmission found on previous generation Maxima models powers the front drive wheels and tends to change this vehicle’s sporty nature. Even if shifting is generally problem-free, it’s a bit hard to go from third to fourth smoothly. On the other hand, the four-speed automatic transmission is precise and smooth, its gear ratio is excellent and shifting is almost imperceptible. The Maxima can go from 0 to 100 kph (0-60 mph) in less than eight seconds.

The Maxima shows more resistance to torsion and flexion and the suspension has been improved to provide better road stability without any negative effect on the ride. Thanks to wider stabilizer bars, revised geometry and recalibrated springs and shock absorbers, handling is impeccable. This Maxima’s sporty personality means that it’s good on winding or badly deteriorated roads, to the point that it equals and even surpasses some of its European rivals in this regard.

Motorists who prefer sporty driving styles should opt for the SE version and its firmer suspension; it hugs the road like not many other cars do and it’s still comfortable, though it does react harshly to major bumps.

In spite of a major turning radius, the power steering system is responsive and precise. I would have liked more feedback on road conditions - especially behind the wheel of the SE - but I have to say that the Maxima offers good driveability.

Four disc brakes and an ABS system lived up to expectations; stops are linear and it takes no special effort to bring this vehicle to a full stop.

There’s no question, Nissan has managed to build a luxury sedan with exemplary handling, good driveability and total predictability.

PROS
More powerful
V6 Bold lines
Good handling

CONS
Slightly stiff suspension (SE)
Minimal performance in the lower rpm range
Narrow trunk opening
CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: * * * *
Passenger: * * * *

More power, to 255 hp.
2003

PROS
Successful restyling
Sturdy and reliable
Well-assembled

CONS
Naturally aspirated
 V6 lacks pep
Uncomfortable auxiliary seats
Suspension a bit mushy

CRASH TEST (five stars indicate the best protection)
Driver: no data
Passenger: * * * *

Long bed available with the Crew Cab
2004

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