The child prodigy
Nissan's 3.5-litre engine is found in practically all the manufacturer's models and has been often been hailed as one of the best engines in the world. The new generation continues this fine tradition. Upgraded to 290 hp, the 3.5-litre mill turns the car into a muscular panther that makes passing and accelerating an act of the mundane. All this power results from changes made to the variable valve timing. And fuel efficiency is part of the package too, with a surprising 7.7 L/100 km highway rating; however, we only averaged 10.5 litres per 100 km.
The four-mode, CVT transmission is fantastic, especially in sport mode with the steering wheel paddles. Steering is markedly more dynamic than that of the previous generation. The torque effect remains considerable nonetheless, typical of such powerful drives. The suspension has also been modified; helped by a much more rigid chassis, it successfully combines both firmness and comfort. Handling is consistent. The car corners with confidence, and while it isn't a racecar, it's still fun to drive.
Competition
You could say that the Maxima is a pioneer in its category, but the fact remains that its rivals are frankly quite impressive. On the Asian side, there's the Infiniti G35 ($39,990), the Acura TL ($42,700), the Lexus ES 350 ($39,900) and the Hyundai Genesis 3.8 ($37,995). On the European side, there's the Saab 9-5 ($43,900) and the Volkswagen Passat 3.6L ($42,975). And on the American side, there's the Chrysler 300 Limited ($35,295) and the Pontiac G8 GT ($36,995).
Conclusion
Nissan has successfully revamped its standard bearer, but in the current context of the Infiniti, the Maxima doesn't have its place. The extra $2,000 on the G35's price tag is fully justified, especially for a prestigious brand. An excellent vehicle, but out of context. Too bad.
photo:Bertrand Godin
Nissan's 3.5-litre engine is found in practically all the manufacturer's models and has been often been hailed as one of the best engines in the world. The new generation continues this fine tradition. Upgraded to 290 hp, the 3.5-litre mill turns the car into a muscular panther that makes passing and accelerating an act of the mundane. All this power results from changes made to the variable valve timing. And fuel efficiency is part of the package too, with a surprising 7.7 L/100 km highway rating; however, we only averaged 10.5 litres per 100 km.
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| The Maxime successfully combines both firmness and comfort. |
The four-mode, CVT transmission is fantastic, especially in sport mode with the steering wheel paddles. Steering is markedly more dynamic than that of the previous generation. The torque effect remains considerable nonetheless, typical of such powerful drives. The suspension has also been modified; helped by a much more rigid chassis, it successfully combines both firmness and comfort. Handling is consistent. The car corners with confidence, and while it isn't a racecar, it's still fun to drive.
Competition
You could say that the Maxima is a pioneer in its category, but the fact remains that its rivals are frankly quite impressive. On the Asian side, there's the Infiniti G35 ($39,990), the Acura TL ($42,700), the Lexus ES 350 ($39,900) and the Hyundai Genesis 3.8 ($37,995). On the European side, there's the Saab 9-5 ($43,900) and the Volkswagen Passat 3.6L ($42,975). And on the American side, there's the Chrysler 300 Limited ($35,295) and the Pontiac G8 GT ($36,995).
Conclusion
Nissan has successfully revamped its standard bearer, but in the current context of the Infiniti, the Maxima doesn't have its place. The extra $2,000 on the G35's price tag is fully justified, especially for a prestigious brand. An excellent vehicle, but out of context. Too bad.
photo:Bertrand Godin
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