Maxima's rear Multi-Link Beam suspension, which is designedto offer precise handling and outstanding stability byminimizing camber change during cornering, has been refinedthrough use of thicker front and rear stabilizer bars, theadoption of larger, softer trailing link bushings, and arelocation of the system's unique lateral link to behindthe rear beam. Forsyth said the new Maxima's "cut above"performance is also reinforced by standard 4-wheel discbrakes with 4-channel/4-sensor ABS, refined engine-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering, and anoptional traction control system.
As for the luxury side of the Maxima coin, Forsyth said itstarts with its enhanced roominess. The 2000 model offers a2-inch longer wheelbase (to 108.3) and 2.4 more cubic feetof passenger compartment volume (to 102.0). Front seat headroom and front leg room have been increased and the frontfootwell width is 1.4 inches wider, while rear leg room isup 1.9 inches. Trunk room is up 1.2 cubic feet, to 15.7.Hirschberg said the interior features a stylish "wavedesign with a sweeping console, striking instrument paneland special attention to driver ergonomics." The steeringwheel and power seat controls have been moved forward andthe parking brake lever moved back, all to provide betterdriver control and comfort. The front seats have beenredesigned with a more rigid seat structure, improvedvibration absorption, continuously variable lumbar support,and a new double-lock recline mechanism. The rear seatoffers a 60/40 split fold-down design, anti-theft lockfunction, fold-down armrest and seat belt latchesintegrated into the seat cushion. Attention to detail alsoreinforces Maxima's exceptional luxury feel, Forsyth said.Heater and cooling vents on the instrument panel closeflush for a sleek appearance; dome light switches areeasier to operate, and the front and rear door levers arelarger and easier to use with gloved hands. Maxima safetyfeatures include an improved impact dispersion body sidestructure which includes reinforced roof side rails,B-pillars and side sills, pipe-style steel side-door guardbeams, dual supplemental front air bags, 3- point frontseat belts with seat belt pretensioners and load limiters,and available front-seat supplemental side-impact air bags."The new Maxima has what we believe is the best Nissaninterior ever -- quiet, comfortable and vibration-free,"said Forsyth. "Yet in the true spirit of Maxima, there'sstill a strong connection to the road rather than completeisolation. This is where performance and luxury really cometogether."