Model Strengths:

• Smooth and Powerful Drivetrain
• Comfortable Interior With Easy-to-use Controls
• Lots of Standard Features At All Trim Levels

Model Overview:

The 2013 Nissan Maxima comes in S and SV trims and features a 290-hp 3.5L V6 engine connected to a continuously variable transmission with manual mode. Anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution are standard equipment along with speed-sensitive power steering. The Maxima's sporty styling is evident with its chrome-tipped dual mufflers, LED taillights and power-sliding moonroof. It's even got 18-inch alloy wheels, though 19-inch wheels are available with the Sport Package. To top it off, the Maxima manages respectable fuel economy estimates of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The Maxima isn't all about looks, though. All of its safety features come standard. Items such as traction control, tire pressure monitoring, an energy-absorbing steering column and the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System are included with every Maxima.

The interior has leather seats, a leather shift knob and a leather-lined steering wheel. The 8-way power driver's seat has lumbar support, while front seat passengers make do with a 4-way power seat. The rear bucket seats fold down with a 60/40 split. Dual-zone climate control with an air filter is standard as are rear-seat air conditioning controls. Everything in the Maxima is power, from the push-button start to the remote windows-down function.

The packaged options for the SV add quite a bit to the already-long list of features. The Limited Edition Package includes smoky headlight lenses, fog lamps, silver aluminum wheels, rear spoiler, a special grille and metallic interior trim. The Sport package includes 19-inch dark alloy wheels, sport suspension, HID headlamps, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, heated front seats and rear bucket seats. The Premium package includes a dual-panel moonroof, a climate-controlled driver seat, rearview monitor, USB input and cherry wood trim.

Model Changes:

2013 brings a few changes to the Nissan Maxima. The Sport Package has been updated. It now includes a 7-inch monitor, USB connectivity, RearView Monitor and a climate-controlled driver's seat. Also new on the sport package are a set of 19-inch alloy wheels finished Dark Hyper Silver. New for 2013 is the SV Value Package which includes a 9-speaker Bose stereo, satellite radio, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

Model Value:

The Maxima's sporty styling and spirited handling plus its long list of standard features makes it a solid performer in its segment. The standard 3.5L V6 engine in the Maxima is the most powerful in the segment, while the continuously variable transmission (CVT) allows good fuel economy.