2009 Nissan Maxima [ 2008 , 2007 ]

What: Redesigned Nissan Maxima with sportier looks and performance.

When: Expected to drive onto Nissan lots in June 2008.

Price Range: Some anticipate pricing close to the Infiniti G35, which currently prices between $30,000 and $35,000.


New For 2009

Nissan is marketing their new Maxima as a 4DSC, or a four-door sports sedan, and has taken great pains with its 2009 overhaul to reflect that. Modifications include an exterior facelift, a cabin refreshing and supplanted parts under the hood.

The 2009 Nissan Maxima is wider, but its wheelbase has shrunk, creating bodylines that channel the M and G35 models from Infiniti. On the inside, Nissan improves the Maxima's sporty aspirations by switching over to the D platform, designed to increase the sedan's responsiveness and eliminate torque steer that results from greater horsepower. Another sporty addition is a new Xtronic continuously variable transmission with manual mode. The Maxima keeps its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, but receives a boost in horsepower, now at 290.

Changes have also been made for the 2009 Nissan Maxima's cabin. These including repositioned gauges to improve the driver's ergonomics, and adjusted bolstering in the seats for a performance-oriented ride. The Maxima's new navigation system came directly from the luxury Infiniti brand.

What the Auto Press Says

The auto press recognizes and applauds the attempts to return the Maxima to its sporty roots. Generally they report that Nissan has effectively addressed the sixth-generation Maxima's weak points of the sixth-generation Maxima by boosting performance and adjusting the sheetmetal.

Here's what the press has to say about the 2009 Maxima:

  • "With a sampling of pieces from the Nissan parts bin…could this new Maxima chart Nissan's flagship sedan back into sportier waters? -- Jalopnik
  • "The 2009 model might just be the closest yet to that dream come true, at least for a front-drive sedan." -- Popular Mechanics
  • "While Nissan is to be credited for turning the Maxima around, this really does not turn the clock all the way back to the Maxima's halcyon days." -- Automobile Magazine
  • "No slab-sided antiseptic styling here; the 2009 Maxima channels the GT-R and Infiniti G35 to great effect." -- Motor Trend
  • "The Nissan Maxima, a car whose future was once precarious, is evidently alive and well. … There are tall orders, but this one seems like a veritable Everest." -- KickingTires

Key Details

In addition to a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and a new Intelligent Xtronic CVT with paddle-shifters, Nissan is including 18" or 19" high-performance tires as part of its 4DSC Maxima's package.

The new Maxima's cabin is also expected to have an eight-way adjustable driver's seat with adjustable thigh support and climate control, a dual-paneled moonroof and power rear sunshade.

Also included is a touch-screen navigation system with XM ® NavTraffic and voice recognition, and Bose®'s custom-designed Audio System with iPod connectivity and a 9.3GB hard drive for storing songs.

Stay tuned for a full review for the 2009 Nissan Maxima. Also check out information on the 2008 Maxima.