What Changed

Nissan's all-new Maxima wears more striking sheet metal. The interior has been reworked and now bears a stronger resemblance to Nissan's upscale Infiniti products. By switching to Nissan's D platform, the Maxima gains a couple of inches in width and loses almost four inches in length, which should aid handling. The reduction in length reduces the legroom in the rear seat. Although the powertrain remains the same, the output of the 3.5-liter V6 has increased by about 35-bhp and 10 lb-ft of torque. The Maxima retains its CVT transmission but adds a new Ds mode for sportier shift feel.

Comparison to Prior Model

2009 Nissan Maxima 2008 Nissan Maxima
2009 Nissan Maxima 2008 Nissan Maxima
Price Range ($) $30,160 - $32,860 $28,270 - $30,520
Length (in) 190.6 194.4
Wheelbase (in) 109.3 111.2
Width (in) 73.2 71.7
Height (in) 57.8 58.3
Track (in) 62.4 61.4
Exterior Volume (cu. ft.) 397.8 402.7
Curb Weight (lbs.) 3556 3579-3591
Legroom Total (in.) 78.4 80.4
Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) 95.1 103.5
Cargo Volume (cu. ft.) 14.2 15.5
Driven Wheels
  • FWD
  • FWD
Engines
  • 3.5l V6 (290-bhp)
  • 3.5l V6 (255-bhp)
Transmissions CVT CVT
City MPG 19 19
Highway MPG 26 25
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