2021 Nissan Maxima Pros vs Cons

Boosting speed and style, the 2021 Nissan Maxima has been hailed as a "four-door sports car"! Its signature styling makes it stand out from other cars in its segment. Moreover, this entry-level luxury sedan packs plenty of features to ensure an enjoyable ride both for comfort and safety purposes. To top off this impressive vehicle's 40th anniversary milestone, Nissan have released three new trim levels! If you're looking for unbeatable quality at a great price point, then look no further than the Maxima.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2021 Nissan Maxima – The Pros

1. Lively Powertrain

Nissan only offers the new Maxima with one powertrain option. Nevertheless, it proves to be a satisfying performer. Under the hood is a familiar V6 engine, which has won multiple awards over the years for its cutting-edge design. Nissan rates this engine to push out an even 300 horsepower. Automotive reviewers have clocked the Maxima with a respectable 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. There’s definitely enough power on tap for drivers to have a bit of fun.

2. Xtronic Transmission Works Well

Step up your ride with the 2021 Nissan Maxima! Its Xtronic transmission not only offers you great fuel economy, but also provides an elevated driving experience thanks to D-Step simulated gearshift logic. With no traditional gears necessary and EPA ratings of up to 30 mpg on the interstate – a rare feat for large sedans - this is one pulse-raising performance that's sure to make waves.

3. Handles Well for Its Size

Although the 2021 Nissan Maxima may not be a high-performance car, most people will be impressed by its athleticism. It feels extremely confident on bending roads. A lowered stance ensures good body control. All versions of the Maxima come equipped with some performance-enhancing technologies. When taking corners, Intelligent Trace Control helps enhance stability. Meanwhile, Active Ride Control helps smooth out bumpy roads. Drivers who desire tighter handling can take advantage of the SR model's track-inspired suspension.

4. Packs A lot of Style

One of the Maxima’s best highlights is its eye-catching exterior design. It has a sleek and muscular body. Many people also like the sedan’s recently updated front fascia, which flaunts a more aggressive V-Motion grille and cool LED headlamps. On the rear, integrated exhaust finishers enhance the car’s sportiness. Expect the new 80th Anniversary Edition to have an especially bold look. An exclusive Ruby Slate Gray Pearl finish with a black roof help set it apart.

5. Above-Average Comfort & Luxury

When it comes to overall comfort, the 2021 Nissan Maxima punches above its price class. Passengers will especially enjoy Nissan’s exclusive Zero Gravity seats. These seats are built to keep your body in an ideal anatomical position, thus ensuring greater comfort. Drivers will also appreciate how quiet the cabin remains at highway speeds. This is a perfect car for travelers. Upper trim levels feel quite luxurious. Diamond-quilted leather upholstery and wood accents help create a premium atmosphere.

6. Well-Equipped Base SV Model

The base SV model is a great choice for drivers who aren’t looking to shell out any extra money. Prices start at less than $37,000. Buyers will receive a good amount of standard equipment. When Old Man Winter approaches, the SV model’s heated seats will warm things up. Traffic sign recognition is a newly added standard feature. It helps drivers to remain aware of the speed limit and other road signs. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration and LED exterior lighting are standard as well.

7. Standard Safety Shield 360

Last year, the Maxima recorded some of the best crash scores in the segment. Every new 2021 Nissan Maxima also comes standard with Safety Shield 360. This collection of advanced driving aids will reduce the likelihood of a crash. Nissan’s forward collision warning system is intelligent enough to predict a potential accident two vehicles ahead. Meanwhile, blind-spot monitoring uses sensors to detect unseen cars. Front/rear automatic braking, automatic high beams, and lane departure notification are included as well.

8. Intelligent Around View Monitor

A traditional backup camera comes standard on the Maxima. However, an Intelligent Around View Monitor is on the car’s list of optional equipment. It features four cameras for a 360-degree view. When attempting to park crowded places, drivers will appreciate the enhanced visibility. If the system happens to detect a moving object near the car, a warning will be displayed. While everyone will appreciate the Intelligent Around View Monitor, it’s a must-have feature for city dwellers.

9. Bose Premium Sound System

Drivers who aren’t quite content with the Maxima’s standard stereo should upgrade to the Bose premium audio system. This 11-speaker unit delivers an especially clear sound. Centerpoint2 Surround Technology helps passengers to hear great sound from every angle. Music fans can dial up the volume without fear of causing distortion. Active Noise Cancellation comes along with the system, which helps promote a quieter ride.

10. Rear Door Alert

Rear Door Alert makes the 2021 Nissan Maxima a safer car. It will certainly appeal to drivers who routinely travel with children or pets. If necessary, the system will remind drivers to check the backseat. Aside lowering the risk of kids being left in a hot vehicle, Rear Door Alert also makes valuables less likely to get stolen.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2021 Nissan Maxima – The Cons

1. Not a True Four-Door Sports Car

Despite what Nissan may say, the 2021 Nissan Maxima is not a four-door sports car. Some people may desire a more aggressive driving machine. While the Maxima is fun to drive, it doesn’t pack the performance of a European sports sedan. Both the turbocharged Honda Accord and the V6-powered Toyota Camry can accelerate just as quickly as the Maxima.

2. Could Use More Rear Legroom

Most people will find the new Maxima to be a very accommodating family car. Few models in the class provide as much front-seat legroom. However, there’s not as much space in the Maxima’s backseat. Long-legged family members may need more space to unwind. The midsize Nissan Altima actually has a more spacious backseat.

3. Interior Electronics Are Just A Tad Outdated

Every trim level comes equipped with a NissanConnect infotainment system. Testers praise this interface for its simple design. However, it doesn’t currently offer wireless smartphone integration. Drivers must connect their smartphone using a traditional USB cable. Nissan also doesn’t offer the Maxima with a fully digital gauge cluster.

4. Smaller Trunk Limits Cargo Space

The average driver will have no complaints about the Maxima’s trunk. It provides roughly 14.3 cubic feet of storage space. However, other cars in the class have a much larger trunk. For instance, there’s 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the Dodge Charger’s trunk. This extra space could prove to be an asset when traveling.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

 

2021 Nissan Maxima vs 2021 Toyota Avalon

The Toyota Avalon is a top-rated large sedan. Critics rave about the Avalon’s bulletproof reliability. Build quality is exceptional for the class. Toyota also offers a fun-to-drive Avalon TRD model. It comes equipped with a track-tuned suspension and high-performance exhaust. While the Avalon is a great pick, some drivers may favor the Maxima’s racy exterior styling. Test drivers may also find the Maxima’s front seats to be a more relaxing.

2021 Nissan Maxima vs 2021 Honda Accord

Choosing between the 2021 Nissan Maxima and Honda Accord can be a difficult decision to make. The Accord is an ideal choice for families looking for spacious designs, plus its four-cylinder model offers superior fuel economy. But if you're up for spending extra on upgraded engine power or care more about premium interior materials, then the new Maxima might better suit your needs; it's also equipped with a 360-degree parking camera that many drivers find incredibly helpful when navigating tight spaces.

Final Thoughts

Step into luxury with the 2021 Nissan Maxima! This sleek mid-size sedan offers a number of premium features, making it great value for families looking to upgrade. With more power and agility than ever before, seasoned drivers will love its performance capabilities while budget shoppers can appreciate that prices are still entry level. That being said, rear legroom can be limited and all-wheel drive isn't available—so if you have taller passengers or live somewhere snowy this might not be ideal for your needs.