The 2016 Nissan Maxima has had a few important upgrades, inside and out.
Outside and under the hood, the 2016 Maxima has sportier upgrades, including sleeker styling and a more powerful engine which have set it apart from its similar sister, the Altima.
In previous years, the Nissan Maxima had a bit of an identity issue, having too little differences between it and the Altima. Subsequently, Nissan set out to make the Maxima a distinguishable sedan within their own lineup and the market as a whole. With the 2016 Maxima, Nissan has succeeded in creating such a vehicle. The Maxima has a much sportier look than previous years — it has been dropped 1.3 inches and is 2.2 inches longer giving it a sleek, sporty feel. The smooth lines, L- shaped taillights, angled headlights and bold grille make for a dramatic appearance. Sit inside, and you will feel like you are in a luxury vehicle.
Thanks to Nissan’s attention to details and keen eye for high quality materials, the 2016 Maxima’s interior feels incredibly upscale. From it’s eight-inch touchscreen interface, which is intelligently tilted at 7 degrees towards the driver, to the fine stitching in the upholstery, Nissan demonstrates an affordable vehicle can have a luxurious feel.
The attention to detail also is evident in the upgrades for the navigation system that now has various touch responses and can be centered in front of the driver.
Other than the touchscreen interface, the Maxima comes standard with: keyless ignition and entry, 60/40-split folding rear seat, navigation, rearview camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, eight-speaker sound system and satellite radio, and of course, Bluetooth phone and audio capabilities. In the following trim levels: SV, SL, SR and Platinum add everything from leather upholstery to a parking camera system with moving object detection.
While the Maxima comes full of standard features and trim level options as well as a beautiful interior, its only short coming is the lack of room in the backseat. It would be uncomfortable for most adults, especially those who need extra headroom.
This year, Nissan also has updated the Maxima’s engine. The 3.5-liter V6 now is capable of producing 10 more horsepower for a total of 300 hp. Torque, however stays the same at 261 pound-feet. Despite the higher horsepower, fuel economy is marginally better in the Maxima than that of its competitors at 22 city/30 highway mpg. The Maxima is capable of 5.8 second 0-60 time. While Nissan touts the Maxima as a “four-door sports car” it may be so because of its aesthetics, more than its power. The Maxima still provides a great, firm ride.
Overall, Nissan succeeds in creating a distinct identity for the Maxima. Previous models lacked in individuality and were difficult to distinguish from the Nissan Altima. The new year brings an impressively elegant interior, great technological features and a more sporty and unique exterior. The 2016 Maxima stands out against its competition for all the right reasons.
The MSRP for the 2016 Nissan Maxima is $32,410.
Grant Miller is the publisher Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com.
