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The Nissan Maxima has been surviving (and sometimes thriving) as a premium midsize sedan since 1981. The current generation Maxima debuted in 2016, so we took a look at the 2019 model to see how things have improved.

The V Motion design has aged well, particularly compared to the ever-more-outlandish designs seen on some of the Maxima’s more luxurious competitors. The floating roof design remains, but there are now five new wheel designs and a new paint option: Sunset Drift (bright orange). Inside, the Maxima benefits from nice materials and extremely comfortable Zero Gravity seats. This is a good car for long drives.

The Maxima still employs a naturally aspirated V6 engine—no turbochargers here. It’s good for 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, sent to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite the impressive power numbers and front-wheel drive, Nissan effectively mitigates any uncomfortable torque steer. The suspension is excellent and the interior is quiet, but the brake and steering feel are less than precise.

Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are both incorporated into the Nissan Maxima’s infotainment system, as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Shoppers with newer devices will be pleased to see the high-speed USB-C ports, too. Finally, the Maxima scores well in crash test from the IIHS and NHTSA, and benefits from an array of advanced safety systems. Unfortunately, Nissan ProPilot Assist—found on the new Altima and the Rogue—is not available on the Maxima.

Presenter: Clifford Atiyeh
Cinematographer: Venn Creative Media

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