09 Nissan Maxima By ALAN GELL CarColumns.Net The new 2009 Nissan Maxima was unveiled earlier this year at the New York Auto Show.  I was there for the press conference and was as impressed as almost everyone else in attendance.  This new Maxima is the seventh generation of what is called Nissan’s flagship sedan.

The Maxima was designed as a four door, front-wheel drive sports car, but appeals to that category of buyers who need a family sedan but want the feel and looks of a sports car. The PR folks from Nissan call the appearance one of “liquid motion.”  They might be stretching it a little bit, but is certainly is a well-performing car. The Maxima comes in two trim levels – the 3.5 S and the 3.5 SV.
            A rear spoiler adds to the overall special look, but this is a optional item and not standard on the Maxima.  There are dual exhaust pipes with chrome finish that add a special look.
            The 2009 Maxima has been slightly reduced in the overall length, but given a wider front and rear track.  That reduction in wheelbase has given it a more aggressive-looking stance.  The design engineers also added a stronger fender look that gives the Maxima an overall appearance of power and performance capability.  The front grille is wide.  The headlights are large and L-shaped, wrapping around the front edges of the car.
            Inside, there is an idea of a “Super Cockpit.”  The controls have been set to again give the feeling of being in a sports car.  The controls are close enough to be easily accessed, but there is enough driver and passenger room for comfort.  The styling on the inside uses premium materials, whether it is metallic trim, wood, cloth, or leather.  There are optional upgrades that provide the more luxury-appointed seats and craftsmanship.  The driver’s seat is sporty and has a manually operated thigh extension.  For those with long legs, this is a major comfort benefit.  The Sport or Premium Packages feature a panel behind the rear seat that improves torsional rigidity  For those who like to rest their arms on the center console, it has been raised slightly higher and soft touch materials have been used,  as well as deep pads where your arm or elbow  rests. 
            The most noticeable aspect of driving the 2009 Maxima is the power of the engine, considering this is a four-door sedan.  The engine is a 3.5 liter, 24 valve V-6 that has been enhanced and refined to produce 290 horsepower.  The acceleration response is obvious.  The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) has been revised and paddle shifters are available as an option.  Those paddle shifters also add to the overall feel of driving a sports car rather than a family sedan.
            The Maxima rides on 10 spoke, 18 inch aluminum alloy wheels.  Also available are split five spoke 19 inch wheels and high-performance tires.
            This new model of the Maxima was created and designed to be a class-leader in a number of areas, and for the most part, they have succeeded very admirably.  It definitely has the feel of a sports car while maintaining characteristics of the four-door family sedan.  It has great handling, braking, and acceleration.  It has good looks, a unique cockpit design, and noticeable craftsmanship.
            Check out the new Maxima at a Nissan dealership yourself and see what it might have to offer you and your family.