Nissan markets its Maxima sedan as the "original 4-door sports car" in an apparent swipe at the Porsche Panamera. That marketing angle is a bold one and it isn't far off the mark as the Maxima offers the performance and handling that may people desire in a coupe, even if what you're getting is a large, front-wheel-drive sedan.
Whether Nissan succeeds in helping the Maxima live up to the hype is not the question here. Rather, are buyers interested in a vehicle sold in a segment that has been dwindling steadily for years? Given that Ford, Toyota, Hyundai, Chrysler and Nissan are still active in this segment, then that answer is yes. For 2013 Nissan brings forth some important changes to help you consider this capable sport sedan.
SV Value Package
The most significant change for the 2013 Nissan Maxima is the introduction of an SV Value Package. This arrangement combines a pair of previous packages -- a Bose Audio Package and its Cold Package -- to deliver $500 savings. Also, Nissan has upgraded its Sport Package that now includes its Monitor Package and adds in climate-controlled seats and 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels dressed in a dark "hyper" silver finish.
Beyond the package adjustments, the 2013 Nissan Maxima remains unchanged. And that is a good thing too as you get a sport interior with an 8-way power driver's seat, a 4-way power adjustable front passenger seat, steering wheel mounted controls with illumination, zoned automatic climate control, keyless entry with push button start, a premium 8-speaker audio system and both Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
Technology upgrades give you that Bose premium audio system, a navigation system with a rear view camera, traffic and weather alerts and voice recognition. You can also choose high intensity discharge Xenon headlights, 19-inch summer tires and a rear spoiler.
Nissan also offers accessories that can ordered and installed across both its S and SV trim lines. Those accessories include a 5-piece floor and trunk mat set; a trunk sub-floor monitor; an illuminated kick plate and external ground lighting. Just the items you want to give your Maxima a refined look.
Engine and Transmission
Buy a Nissan Maxima and you're giving just one engine and transmission choice. Once you drive this car, you'll understand why the 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6 engine is all that you will need. Paired with a continuously variable transmission with adaptive shift control, this combination delivers... in spades!
Nissan says that the Maxima delivers 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and serves up 261 foot-pounds of torque at 4,400 rpm. Torque steer is, surprisingly nearly imperceptible, although some critics say that is present. Its cornering capabilities may not live up to what a true sports car delivers, but it is definitely an improvement on most front-wheel-drive sedans.
Maxima Pricing
Nissan prices the 2013 Maxima S from $32,780 and the Maxima SV from $35,080. Add in the tech package, Bose Audio and HID Xenon Headlights, plus the popular accessories and your sedan will retail for about $40,000. That price is on the high end of the full-size sedan market and may have you considering Infiniti instead.
Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Recaro Seats and Autometer Gauges.
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