2019 NISSAN MAXIMA QUICK TAKES

2019 NISSAN MAXIMA QUICK TAKES | TESTDRIVENOW OVERVIEW

With its captivating performance stance, 19-inch diamond-cut wheels, boomerang signature LED lighting framing the enlarged V-motion grille, the new 2019 Nissan Maxima continues to build on its legacy as the flagship of Nissan’s sedan lineup.

The mid-cycle Maxima refresh follows the introduction of the all-new 2019 Nissan Altima, creating a potent one-two punch in the mid-size sedan segment.

 

 

 

 

 

The long list of enhancements to the 2019 Maxima include:

• Aggressive styling updates, including standard LED headlights, new front fascia and grille, revised rear fascia with LED taillights and integrated quad-tip exhaust finishers, and new 18-inch and 19-inch wheel designs
• New interior treatment with available semi-aniline diamond-quilted Rakuda Tan leather-appointed seating
• Newly available Nissan Safety Shield 360 active safety technology and 10 air bags, including front driver and passenger knee and rear seat side supplemental air bags
• New convenience features, including standard Rear Door Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition and USB Type-C ports
• New SR grade Premium Package and Platinum grade Reserve Package with exclusive content

A Bold New Exterior Appearance, Refined Interior

The 2019 Maxima’s aggressive, updated exterior appearance was created by Nissan Design America in La Jolla, Calif. and

features a more voluminous front grille with a deeper V-motion flow that carries into the hood and down the body to the redesigned rear tail lamps and rear fascia.

 

 

 

 

 

The standard jewel-like LED headlights and Nissan Signature Daytime Running Lights, along with the new, deep fascia design, add to the Maxima’s premium, high performance appearance.

 

 

 

 

 

The distinctive Maxima exterior continues to stand out in a field of cookie cutter sedan designs. The body is low, sculpted and streamlined to achieve a sweeping aerodynamic profile that has more than a little jet fighter look to it. To bring all this inspiration to life, a special metal stamping technique was developed, adding the distinctive powerful gesture to its bodyline and deeply scalloped doors.

 

 

 

 

The highly distinctive Maxima profile comes from its floating roof appearance with blacked-out A-pillars similar to the Nissan GT-R. Combined with the same blackout treatment applied to the B- and C-pillars, it creates a wraparound canopy appearance.

 

 

 

 

The upper canopy look is accented with an available Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof (standard on SL and Platinum grades, optional on SR), which gives front and rear occupants an uninhibited view of the sky.

 

 

 

 

 

In the rear, the new fascia includes integrated quad-tip exhaust finishers, while a new sport rear spoiler is also added to the Maxima SR grade.

 

 

 

 

 

New wheel designs have been developed for all five Maxima grade levels – capped off by the new 19-inch Hyper Silver Platinum Reserve Package wheels.

 

 

 

 

 

In addition, a new premium exterior paint color, Sunset Drift, has been added to the Maxima color palette. Six other exterior colors are available: Super Black, Brilliant Silver Metallic, Gun Metallic, Deep Blue Pearl, Pearl White TriCoat (premium color), Carnelian Red Tintcoat (premium color).

Inside, the dramatic Maxima body is a driver-oriented cockpit and comfortable seating for all five occupants. Enhancing the Maxima’s already high level of quality and premium luxury appointments is a new seat insert pattern and charcoal headliner and pillars for SR grade and Platinum Reserve Package.

 

 

 

 

The Platinum Reserve Package is highlighted by special Rakuda Tan semi-aniline leather appointments, similar to that available on the Nissan GT-R Premium Interior Package.

 

 

 

 

 

The Platinum Reserve Package interior also offers Satin Bronze faceted interior finishers, Rakuda Tan steering wheel insert for a two-tone appearance and heated rear seats.

 

 

 

 

 

The interior retains the Maxima’s “Gliding Wing” layout that emphasizes the horizontal movement and easy access to all controls, but offers updated trim finishers and materials. Depending on grade level, the instrument panel, door panels, steering wheel insert, stitching, seat materials, headliner, pillars and A-pillar speaker grilles have been upgraded, providing a more premium look and feel.

 

 

 

 

Other interior enhancements include standard Rear Door Alert (RDA) for all grade levels, revised SiriusXM® Radio with Advanced Auto Features (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately) and updated Nissan Door to Door Navigation system, which is standard on all grades except S.

 

 

 

 

The performance luxury-style interior is again anchored by a “command central” driver’s cockpit and a premium bespoke style crafted execution. The focus on the driver begins with a center stack angled seven degrees toward the driver (a lesson learned from the legendary GT-R) and a floating console that sits higher than the previous generation Maxima design, putting key controls within easy reach.

 

 

 

 

For example, the standard Nissan Intelligent Key™ start switch is located on the console and pulses when the driver enters the cabin. The console also features luxurious padding on the sides with contrasted stitching. The Display Commander control on the console allows fingertip control of the center display as befitting a premium sport sedan.

 

 

 

 

Nissan’s unique Zero Gravity front seats with sport bolstering are standard (8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and 4-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat) and offer indulgent softness provided by a three-layer foam design. They are offered in premium cloth, leather-appointed or premium Ascot leather-appointed seating surfaces. Heated and Climate-Controlled front seats and steering wheel are available depending on grade level. A power passenger seat lifter is available on SL, SV and Platinum grades.

 

 

 

The rear seat features a standard 60/40 split fold-down design.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition, luxury-level interior quietness is enabled by an available Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system that works much like noise cancelling headphones, helping reduce unpleasant low-frequency sounds. An Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) system, which works by enhancing existing engine sound from the 3.5-liter V6 into the cabin (Bose® audio equipped models only), is standard on SV, SR and Platinum grades. Engaging “Sport” mode takes the stirring engine note a step further with the system allowing even higher engine note amplitude in the cabin.

 

 

 

The premium-level Maxima technology features include NissanConnect® with Navigation featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM on SV and above trim levels. The system has been enhanced for 2019 with Nissan Door to Door Navigation with Premium Traffic information.

 

 

 

 

 

The navigation system also includes an 8.0-inch color display with multi-touch control, two front illuminated USB connection ports for iPod® interface and other compatible devices (one Type-A, one Type-C), Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, SiriusXM® Traffic and Travel Link™ (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

 

 

 

 

Maxima Platinum models include standard NissanConnect with Navigation and Services featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM. Standard with Maxima Platinum, NissanConnect® Services powered by SiriusXM® provides compatible smartphone and smartwatch access to features such as Remote Engine Start/Stop, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Valet Alert, and more. Additionally, certain remote features are accessible through the NissanConnect Services Amazon Alexa Skill and Action for the Google Assistant.

 

 

 

Additional NissanConnect Services security features include Automatic Collision Notification, Emergency Call, Stolen Vehicle Locator and more. Convenience services range from Connected Search, destination directions downloaded right to the navigation system and even journey planning – with routing of up to four waypoints and destination (NissanConnect Services subscription required, sold separately).

Additional NissanConnect Services security features include Automatic Collision Notification, remote start via smartphone, emergency call, stolen vehicle locator and more (services subscription required, sold separately). Convenience Services range from Connected and Assisted Search, destination directions downloaded right to the navigation system and even journey planning – with routing of up to five waypoints and destination.

Maxima entertainment systems include an available 11-speaker Bose® audio system, which was created to deliver the ultimate premium audio experience befitting Nissan’s flagship sedan. The system includes Bose® Center Point® Surround Stage technology, which can deliver a surround sound experience from even a two-channel audio source, and a driver’s seat optimization mode that allows for a driver-centric audio stage.

Convenience features befitting a luxury vehicle are part of the suite of available equipment – including a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with an “Easy Entry” system, heated steering wheel, Around View® Monitor, Remote Start1 via Key Fob and a power rear sunshade.

 

 

 

 

 

Sporty Performance  

While the 2019 Maxima exterior projects an enhanced sense of aggressive style, the heart and soul of Maxima remains its 300-horsepower 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine and performance-oriented Xtronic transmission. The engine applies lessons learned from the Nissan GT-R, such as sodium filled valves, to achieve a high specific output of 85.7 horsepower/liter. Torque is rated at 261 lb-ft.

Well-matched to the engine is an advanced Xtronic transmission, which, with its lack of fixed ratios, affords the specific advantage of always being in the right gear at the right time. A wide gear ratio range allows for strong acceleration from a standing start and the D-Step shifting logic allows rapid shifts at high throttle openings. The shift logic holds rpm when it detects high-G cornering, allowing for smooth re-acceleration on corner exits.

 

 

 

 

Maxima also features a Drive Mode Selector (Sport and Normal modes) that adjusts throttle response, transmission tuning, steering feel. Active Sound Enhancement tuning is standard on SR grade. In Sport mode, the engine throttle response increases, the Xtronic transmission programming changes for more aggressive shifting under braking and gear holding, the steering weight increases and the Active Sound Enhancement system further amplifies the engine note in the cabin.

 

 

 

 

The foundation for Maxima’s refined handling and ride comfort starts with a platform that features use of high strength steels, including 1.2GPa high strength steel. This allows the Maxima to not only boast strong torsional rigidity, but also contributes to a lighter overall weight (versus the previous generation).

 

 

 

 

The suspension is an independent subframe-mounted strut/coil spring design in front. In the rear is an independent multi-link double wishbone design with ZF Sachs dampers. The rear dampers feature a monotube design, often found in performance applications, for enhanced performance and fade resistance. Large stabilizer bars are found in the front (26.0 mm) and rear (26.5 mm).

Responsive braking is provided by 4-wheel power-assisted vented disc brakes, standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Steering is provided by a vehicle speed-sensitive hydro-electric power-assisted steering (HEPS) steering system. Maxima comes with standard 18-inch machined finish aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/45R18 all-season tires.

Taking the sporty look and feel to a higher level is the SR trim. The Maxima SR-exclusive hardware starts with unique suspension damper tuning and a larger front stabilizer bar. Along with special Alcantara® seating inserts and steering wheel insert for high-grip at key touch points, Maxima SR’s Integrated Dynamic-control Module (IDM) system adds an extra element of electronic chassis management. For example, Intelligent Ride Control (I-RC), a feature within the IDM system, uses targeted brake applications after the vehicle encounters a bump or undulation to immediately improve the level of the body, allowing the SR to offer a ride quality that defies its sporting intention. Also standard is a new sport rear spoiler.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility and Nissan Safety Shield 360

The new Maxima also offers available Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of six advanced driver-assist systems that supports the Nissan Intelligent Mobility vision to redefine how cars are driven, powered and integrated into society.

Safety Shield 360 includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking. For the 2019, it comes standard on Maxima Platinum and as part of the SR Premium Package.

In addition to Safety Shield 360, the 2019 Maxima also expands the availability of Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), High Beam Assist (HBA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). Maxima’s innovation Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA)1 is now standard on all grade levels. The Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA)2 system, which helps alert the driver when drowsy driving is detected. Studies have shown that drowsy driving is involved in as much as 21 percent of fatal car accidents (Automobile Association of America Study, Nov. 2014). The I-DA system provides an audible and visual warning if the system judges that the driver may be drowsy (using analysis of steering inputs to detect changes in the driving behavior).

Nissan’s innovative Intelligent Around View® Monitor (I-AVM) that provides a 360-degree “surround view” of the vehicle is standard on Platinum and optional on SR grades.

Maxima comes equipped with standard Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) for the driver and front passenger seats, which includes supplemental front air bags, seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear outboard occupant head protection.

For 2019, Maxima adds standard rear seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and driver and front passenger knee supplemental air bags, bringing the total to 10 supplemental air bags.

Also standard are 3-point rear seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belts with dual pretensioners, load limiters and adjustable upper anchors, emergency inside trunk release, Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Easy-Fill Tire Alert. Maxima also features standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS).

Five Models, Three Accessory Packages

The 2019 Maxima is available in five well-equipped models: Maxima S, SV, SL, SR and Platinum.

The Maxima S includes standard NissanConnect featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM, with 8.0-inch display paired with the 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display in the instrument cluster, Remote Engine Start4 via Intelligent Key, dual illuminated USB ports, SiriusXM® Radio (Sirius XM® subscription required, sold separately), LED Signature Daytime Running Lights, 18-inch machined finished aluminum-alloy wheels, 8-way Power Driver Seat and 4-way Power Passenger Seat, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control with front and rear vents and more.

Maxima SV adds leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, driver’s seat power lumbar support, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), NissanConnect with Navigation featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM, SiriusXM® Traffic and Travel Link services (Sirius XM® subscription required, sold separately), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and heated outside rearview mirrors with turn signal indicators.

Maxima SL adds the Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof, Bose® audio system with 11 speakers, heated steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver rear USB ports, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), power passenger seat lifter and LED Interior Accent Lighting.

The Maxima SR offers a sport-tuned suspension, Integrated Dynamics-control Module (IDM), premium Ascot leather-appointed seats with Dynamic Diamond-quilted Alcantara® inserts, Climate-controlled front seats, Ascot leather-appointed steering wheel with Alcantara® insert, paddle shifters, aluminum sport pedals, Satin Dark Chrome faceted finishers, gloss black sport spoiler, body color door handles, Charcoal headliner and pillars, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Lane Intervention (I-LI), Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), High Beam Assist (HBA) Active Sound Enhancement, LED fog lights, 19-inch gloss black aluminum-alloy wheels and 245/40R19 all-season tires.

 

 

The Maxima Platinum grade includes an extensive array of premium equipment, including Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof, power tilt and telescoping steering column with easy access feature, premium Ascot leather-appointed seats with diamond-quilted leather inserts, premium Ascot leather-wrapped steering wheel, Intelligent Around View® Monitor (I-AVM), rear window power sunshade, driver-side memory seat, outside mirrors and steering wheel, rain detecting windshield wipers, NissanConnect with Navigation and Services featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM (NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), Satin Birdseye Maple wood-tone faceted finishers, auto-dimming driver-side outside mirror, and outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and Rear Automatic Braking (RAB).

 

Two option packages are offered for 2019. The Premium Package (SR grade) features a Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof, auto-dimming driver-side outside mirror, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-RVM), and driver-side seat memory.  The Reserve Package (Platinum grade) includes heated rear seats, exclusive 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Rakuda Tan semi-aniline leather-appointed seats with diamond-quilted leather inserts, Charcoal headliner and pillars, Satin Bronze interior faceted finishers.

 

 

 

Available accessories include splash guards, illuminated kick plates, premium spoiler, sport spoiler (SR only) and unique 18-inch alloy wheels.

 

 

 

 

 

The 2019 Nissan Maxima is assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee, with engines assembled in Decherd, Tennessee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2019 NISSAN MAXIMA PLATINUM MSRP $41,440.

 

 

 

 

 

 

AS SHOWN WITH ADDITIONAL OPTIONS: TOTAL PRICE $45,225.