So we just got the 2009 Maximas in. I toook the opportunity to take our demo out today. Equipment wise it s the 3.5sv (the only model in Canada) with the premium package. The package includes paddle shifter, premium leather (vs. standard leather), sculpted bucket seats in the rear, power rear sunshade, rear audio and climate controls, dual sunroof, etc.

First of all Nissan has done an excellent job with the interior. It is very rich and upscale. The outside styling is yet another highlight. The design is really aggressive. I especially like the lines of the hood when looking out from the driver seat.

The engine is always good in the Maximas so it is no suprise this latest generation of the FWD VQ is a great power plant. 290hp through the front wheels with minimal torque steer. The real star in the powertrain is the Sport CVT. Three different transmission settings are available. Normal auto (D) is just like any other Nissan CVT very smooth and shift are not noticed. Then Ds or Drive Sport actually mimics a 6 speed auto with quick crisp shifts that are still done automatically. Thirdly manual mode which can either be done with the gear lever or paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. Unlike the paddle shifters on lower models these ones are mount like the GTR or a Ferrari so they do not move with the steering wheel. They are large and have a good solid feel to them. Using them to change gears feels very positive and shift seem to be very quick. It was the tranny that surprised me the most with this latest version of our flagship sedan.

The ride is firm but damper levels ensure the ride is very good. The handling is very good for a larger FWD car.

Overall the car perfectly fits the market Nissan is going for. The Maxima segment is a bit of a niche but perhaps it will get a larger market even with the dramatic design of this new one. The pricing is lower then the pervious generation and the car is well separated now in esign from the popular Altima.

If anyone is in the market please let me know we also have a good selection of other models in the Nissan line including 098 Muranos.

Thanks for reading,

Cheers

 

nice write up Chris

 

saw one on the road today on yonge.
very nice looking sedan.
definitely seems much more upscale than the previous.

the shape of the hood stood out the most to me.
good job!

gotta say i'm a much bigger fan of nissan since getting my z.