The 2014 Nissan Maxima comes in S and SV trims and features a 290-horsepower, 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, and 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 S add smoked HID xenon headlights, a compass in the rearview mirror, unique 18-inch wheels, fog lights, integrated side mirror indicators, a rear spoiler and metallic trim. On the SV, the Sport Package includes 19-inch dark alloy wheels, sport suspension, HID headlamps, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, a 7-inch color display, 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.
Smooth And Powerful Drivetrain
Comfortable Interior With Easy-to-use Controls
Lots Of Standard Features At All Trim Levels
For 2014, the Nissan Maxima has only minor changes. A new S Value Package features smoked HID xenon headlights, special 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and other exterior appointments, while SV trim now has a standard rearview monitor with 7-inch color display.
The Maxima's sporty styling and spirited handling, as well as its long list of standard features, makes it a solid performer in its segment. At 290 horsepower, the standard 3.5L V6 engine in the Maxima is the most powerful in the segment, while the continuously variable transmission allows good fuel economy.