2000 Nissan Maxima Review

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Jerry Hirshberg has hit a homerun with styling. Evidence of this abounds by the number of 2000 Maximas running around so soon after their introduction. Further evidence of the Maxima's excellent styling karma is by how many of us, pedestrian or motorist, rubber neck at each passing of the redesigned Nissan Maxima. Unlike the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, The Nissan Maxima is more than just a driving utensil.

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EXTERIORThe Maxima has a bold appearance.. It stands out from the masses of tin as something special. When you drop a chunk of change on your ride that is important. Born from the original Datsun 810 , the Maxima has always stood out from the other Japanese midsize sedans that have never had the nerve to put sport in any phrase related to their cars. Nissan's California design studio features a sharper rake to the windshield and rear window. The front end with its rounded aggressive grille looks almost reminiscent of a late fifties Ferrari. The curves are dramatic and sporty. Wheels are accentuated by fender flares . The profile is smooth almost silky inviting the air and eye to flow over it. Which brings us to the rear (derriere). Bold indeed, who came up with this??? Its bold cut off shape harkens back to the first Olds Toranados or better yet to numerous Ferraris such as the Daytona. No wonder so many of us just stand for substantial periods of time with our jaws agape . Oh by the way the chassis is 30% more rigid than the previous model which was already very stiff. This all translates into reduced noise, vibration and harshness.

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INTERIORA two inch longer wheelbase and other styling changes translates into tangible increases in interior space. In fact the Maxima offers more headroom and legroom than any other midsize car. It has more trunk space than the Accord or Camry. The trunk flows into the passenger compartment with fold down split rear seats that provide versatility. The interior is well designed by the California design studio and leaves no doubt that this is not just some people mover for the masses but rather its flowing curves and supple materials and shapes invite you to stay awhile and says that you are special. Nice touches include a height adjustable center console, and automatic temperature control. There is an optional stereo that is the product of a joint venture between Bose and Nissan. When it comes to interior styling I recommend paying the extra money for the GLE or SE as the GXE interior was a little too utilitarian.

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POWERTRAINThe engine makes the car worthy of sport sedan status. In fact it is the class of not only its class but really of the midsize luxury class to which such cars as the Lexus ES300 belong. This engine is smooth, free revving and reliable to the nth degree. It is a DOHC all aluminum design that pushes out 222 hp. It is coupled to either a 5-speed transmission or automatic both of which are impeccable in quality and feel. Thank you for the stick shift! It is still a sports sedan. This all adds up to a strong accelerating vehicle with a 0-60 time of 7 seconds and a quarter mile time of 15.4 seconds. It tops put at 131mph with fuel economy at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

SAFETYAntilock brakes are standard. Side airbags for the front seats are optional. Front airbags of course are standard,, Emergency maneuvers are good to excellent.

PERFORMANCEAcceleration and handling are the best in class. The car is smooth and quiet yet it can clock quarter mile times quicker than many sport GT cars. It can handle winding roads with a confident and precise feel. The brakes are superb with little fade and good balance. Bumps and uneven pavement are handled with ease. In short, performance is great . I do wish I could talk Nissan into giving this V-6 more low-end torque and please give us our independent rear suspension back. We'd pay more for it.

SUMMARYThe Maxima has always made Nissan proud. What a come back! Kudos to Jerry Hirshberg and the California design group. You are bringing Nissan back slowly, but surely from what was once a near death experience.

Contributed by: Speeddoctor