Nissan Maxima Overview

The all-new 2004 Nissan Maxima is quick and stylish. With the Altima assuming the role of a bigger, more powerful car, the Maxima has moved up market to a pricier position. The latest Maxima is intended to dazzle its driver with refinement and available equipment, and it will likely sell to a fraction of the number of buyers who like the popular Altima.

So the Maxima makes no apologies for what it can't do: It's really no place for children, it looks weird from some angles, and it's not any quicker than the Altima.

That's just fine by us. We like the Maxima's unique, highly styled personality and we like its focus on performance. The sporty Maxima SE rides smoothly and quietly, while the more luxurious Maxima SL rides more softly. Cruising on the highway is effortless and Nissan's 265-horsepower V6 delivers responsive performance for quick passes. Maxima's interior is innovative and comfortable with seats that are supportive and luxurious. The interesting Skyview roof, a glass panel running lengthwise over the front and rear seats, is the sort of feature associated with futuristic concept cars. Also interesting are the available rear bucket seats. Together, these features make back-seat riders feel like full-fledged adult passengers.