When I stepped into the publisher’s office clutching a stack of paraphernalia, he exclaimed, “NISSAN!”
“Asians prefer Toyota or Honda.”
His comments hit the spot. Yes, Asians seem to prefer Toyota or Honda as well. But their somewhat biased preferences might soon change with Nissan’s latest mid-size sedan on the road: The New Nissan Maxima.
The design cues of the previous Maxima have been sharpened and updated so it does not look as heavy as the previous model. It sits on the new D platform (along with the new Murano) and is slightly wider, although it retains the same 2,775mm wheelbase.
Under the bonnet, there are two engines available. A 2.5-litre V6 in the ST-L and a 3.5-litre V6 in the ST-S and Ti . All of them are matched to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
There is a certain grace and elegance about the new Nissan Maxima that is absent in its previous chunkier-looking sedan. The car’s subtle yet bold curves exude a quiet confidence and power. The chrome mouldings, executed in a sword motif, also give it an edgy feel.
The grille, bumper and headlight design forms part of a large sweeping arc that extends from the front to the rear of the vehicle.
The rear is particularly impressive with the LED combination lights. And which is where most drivers will be seeing it from.
Entering the car is akin to walking into a luxury hotel lobby, such is the ambience of the new Maxima.
The seats are suitably comfortable, even lounge-like. They employ a vibration absorption urethane cushion material and are shaped so the entire body is uniformly supported for enhanced ride comfort.
The double-stitching and three-dimensional shaped of the seats convey an enhanced sense of quality and outstanding workmanship. The driver’s seat incorporates an adjustable lumber support mechanism, which targets the human body’s lower back.
Adjustment is fuss-free and suits a variety of body postures and driving situations – from long highway rides to short trips through congested traffic – perfect for reducing fatigue.
Nissan’s intelligent key, with engine immobiliser and alarm system, has also been retained. It will allow you to lock and unlock doors with key still inside your pocket.
For me, the highlight is the new engine coupled with the Xtronic CVT (continuous variable transmission). The previous model was known for being a fuel guzzler but the new Nissan Maxima shows a marked improvement due to the new CVT. The 250ST-L returns a highly competitive 9.5 litres/100kms fuel economy (combined cycle).
The transmission delivers faster processing speeds, reduced fiction, wide gear ratios and enhanced fuel economy.
In short, the CVT control unit can vary the engine speed to control the amount of power required and consequently improve fuel efficiency.
For those concerned with credibility, rest assured that the Nissan VQ series has made Ward’s 10 Best Engines list for 14 year in a row.
Both the VQ35 and the VQ25 provide quick response, smooth acceleration and abundance of low and mid range torque and high-end power. New intake systems and a six-point engine mounting also help to minimise noise.
All these come in a refined suspension and all-new Nissan D platform. The driver will be relatively isolated from noise and vibration since the multi-link rear suspension and its shock absorbers are optimised in the most efficient position on the Nissan D platform. You may find it hard to believe, but Nissan has
actually managed to give its mid-size sedan an upmarket and contemporary feel.
Specifications for NEW Nissan MAXIMA 250 ST-L
Engine: 2,496cc V6
Power: 134kw at 6,000rpm
Max torque: 228Nm at 4,400rpm
Fuel grade: unleaded
Brakes: 4 wheel disc brake ABS EBD and Brake Assist
Transmission: Continuously variable 6 speed manual mode
Fuel Tank: 70 litres
Tare Weight: 1516 kg
Basic Pricing:
- 250 ST-L $33,990.00* plus ORC
- 350 ST-S $37,990.00* plus ORC
- 350 Ti $46,990.00* plus ORC
Warranty: 3 Years / 100,000 km