Dubbed by Nissan as the original “Four-Door Sports Car”, the Nissan Maxima remains a highly recommended sedan. Many people love the Maxima's edgy styling and comfortable interior. There are also plenty of desirable features available. When it comes to passenger safety, this car easily ranks among the best. Read on to learn more details about this versatility family car.
What’s New for 2021?
A new 40th Anniversary Edition model has hit the scene, which has an especially aggressive look. Nissan has also rearranged the Maxima’s available trim levels.
What Styles Does It Come In?
The 2021 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan with room for up to five people. Every new Maxima uses a front-wheel-dive system.
What Are the Available Trims?
Nissan has reduced the Maxima’s lineup to four trims: SV, SR, Platinum, and 40th Anniversary Edition. Most car shoppers will be more than happy with the base Maxima SV. This trim is loaded with must-have luxury features, including heated front seats and leather upholstery. Unlike some other base models in the segment, it also provides a touch-controlled display with standard navigation. Advanced smartphone support is included as well.
Drivers seeking a more agile sedan should check out the SR model. It’s sports-tuned suspension helps promote more aggressive handling. Not only does the Maxima SR offer more driving fun, but it also features an additional number of luxury appointments. Ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof come standard. A Bose premium audio system brings a more fulfilling sound.
The Platinum trim is even nicer on the inside. Diamond-stitched leather upholstery gives its cabin an elegant feel. Running-sensing wipers are also found on the Platinum trim. New for 2021 is the 40th Anniversary Edition model. It features exclusive 19-inch black wheels and a few other special exterior touches. On the inside, red leather upholstery and white face gauges help the cabin to stand out.
Exterior Styling
Many people are quite fond of the Maxima’s bold exterior styling. Multi-element LED headlamps and a muscular V-Motion grille help its front fascia to stand out. Dual exhaust finishers come standard. Nissan offers the new Maxima in eight paint colors, including cool options like Sunset Drift ChromaFlair.
The base SV trim looks eye-catching enough for most people. However, you’ll find a few sporty upgrades on the mid-level SR model. Highlights include a rear spoiler, black 19-inch alloy wheels, and an all-black grille. Drivers looking to attract more attention can upgrade to the all-new 40th Anniversary Edition model.
Interior Features
Although the 2021 Nissan Maxima may not have the most advanced infotainment system in the class, its extremely effective. Drivers will enjoy the interface's user-friendly controls. Navigation is built into the interface, which will come in handy when traveling. Although the Maxima does not offer a fully digital gauge cluster, its 7.0-inch driver information display works well.
Driving Experience
There’s only engine available for the new 2021 Nissan Maxima. However, its advanced V6 engine has won multiple awards over the years. Not only does this engine pack a healthy 300 horsepower, but it can also return up to 30 mpg. Instead of a traditional automatic transmission, the Maxima uses an automatic CVT to conserve fuel. When tested, this sedan posted a competitive 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds.
The Maxima handles extremely well for a five-passenger family car. Intelligent Trace Control is standard on every trim, which aids the sedan’s ability to handle curves. Although the sports-tuned SR model’s suspension is a bit stiffer, its ride quality isn’t offensive. Remember, all-wheel drive is not an option for the new Maxima.
Fuel Economy
The 2021 Nissan Altima is rated by the federal government to return an estimated 20 mpg town/30 mpg freeway. To ensure maximum output, Nissan advises using premium gasoline.
Quality and Comfort
While the Nissan Maxima may not rival the luxuriousness of a BMW 5-Series, it still has a high-quality cabin. Solid cabin insulation helps absorb road and wind noise. The average American family will also find the Maxima's interior to be spacious. Among the Maxima’s biggest attributes is its standard Zero Gravity seats. While virtually everyone will find these ergonomic seats to be comfortable, they’re especially great for back pain sufferers.
Safety
Last year, the Maxima received the NHTSA’s coveted five-star overall safety rating. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 package is also standard on every trim. It brings several key driving aids, including forward/reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. Intelligent lane intervention and intelligent cruise control are found on the upper trims.
The new 2021 Nissan Maxima remains a sporty alternative to an ordinary family sedan. It also offers an above-average level of luxuriousness. You should definitely at least take this car for a spin.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)
Note: All Nissan Maxima MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
