1999 Nissan Maxima Review

The revamped 2000 Nissan Maxima should squarely put this model near the top of shopping lists of those looking for a fast, sophisticated sedan that will not make their bank accounts evaporate.

It's always interesting to see how an automaker improves an old model that already feels pretty good. The old Maxima was one of the slickest mid-size sedans, with a world-class V-6. But the larger, roomier 2000 model, which goes on sale next month, is clearly superior. Restyled inside and out, it is faster, smoother and quieter.

Nissan hasn't set final prices, but the base GXE model is estimated to cost $22,750, while the midrange SE will be priced at about $24,150 and the top-line GLE is expected to be $26,250.

Major option packages include the Comfort and Convenience package. It's estimated to cost $1,600 and includes a power sunroof and power driver seat. The approximately $1,350 Leather Trim package features leather seats, automatic temperature control and a power front passenger seat.

The sporty SE is expected to be the top-selling Maxima, accounting for about 40 percent of sales. The GLE should take 35 percent of sales, with the base model accounting for the remainder.

All are well-equipped. Even the GXE has standard anti-lock brakes, remote keyless entry and power windows and door locks. The SE is the most fun, with a sports suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels and even a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. However, the SE rear spoiler has a tacked-on look.

The GLE could pass for a luxury car, with items such as leather seats, wood-tone trim, killer sound system and automatic temperature control.

Nissan gave this fifth-generation Maxima more aggressive styling--accented by flush-mounted halogen headlights and a unique rear end design. It could be mistaken for the $37,000-plus Lexus GS 300/400 sports/luxury sedan.

Horspower of the smooth, quiet 3-liter, dual-overhead-camshaft V-6 has been raised from 190 to 222--or the same as the last Nissan 300ZX sports car--thanks to items such as new intake and exhaust manifolds. The 24-valve V-6 resides in a surgically neat engine compartment, covered by a hood that conveniently uses hydraulic struts--not an old-fashioned hood prop.

Acceleration is swift, although the four-speed automatic transmission upshifts at about 70 m.p.h. instead of staying in passing gear until 75 during routine 65-75 m.p.h. passing maneuvers on highways.

Still, the automatic upshifts imperceptibly and downshifts quickly. It's standard in the GLE and about a $500 option for the GXE and SE, which come with a standard five-speed manual transmission.

Fuel economy is in the low 20s in the city and in the high 20s on highways.

The interior has a stylish ``wave'' design with a sweeping console and new low-fatigue, supportive front seats. Controls are large, clearly marked and easy to use. The nicely placed and designed front and rear cupholders shouldn't lead to spills.

There is room for five tall adults--with an almost limo-style rear space. But rear windows only lower halfway. And it's almost impossible to stop the driver window from going all the way down with its ``auto-down'' feature once it's put put in the down mode.

The trunk is reasonably large, although wheelwell housings eat some of that space and its lid has old-style hinges.

The SE has a supple ride, despite its firmer suspension, but those looking for the smoothest Maxima ride should opt for the other models. The power steering has a curiously artificial feel, but is quick and precise. Handling is in the sports sedan class, but don't expect softer GXE and GLE to handle as well with their softer suspensions.