2018 Nissan Maxima Pros vs Cons

Over the last few years, the Nissan Maxima has reemerged as a top contender in the entry-level luxury sedan segment. Not only is the new Maxima fun to drive, but it also proves to be an extremely comfortable family vehicle. You certainly can’t overlook the Maxima’s aggressive exterior styling. Featuring a special set of black wheels, the Midnight Edition will cause a lot of heads to turn.

What’s New for 2018?

This year, the 2018 Nissan Maxima boasts refreshed headlamps and taillights. No other major changes were made to the new Maxima.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Nissan Maxima – The Pros

1. Solid Fuel Efficiency

Most drivers will be extremely happy with the Nissan Maxima’s fuel efficiency. It is rated to return an impressive 21 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway. However, some drivers have experienced even better overall fuel economy in the real world. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for optimum performance.

2. Award-Winning V6 Engine

Under the hood of the new Maxima sits Nissan’s famed VQ-Series engine. Car reviewers rave about this engine’s high output. It now pumps out a solid 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. Strong acceleration definitely helps make the 2018 Nissan Maxima engaging to drive. When tested on the track, it posted a competitive 0-60 time of 5.8 seconds.

3. Xtronic Automatic CVT

Unlike some continuous variable transmissions, the Nissan’s Xtronic CVT does not hinder performance. You are bound to appreciate the Xtronic CVT’s quiet operation and overall responsiveness. An innovative D-Step feature enables this CVT to mimic the gear shifts of a traditional automatic transmission. Of course, every driver can take advantage of the Xtronic CVT’s fuel-saving design.

4. Balanced Ride & Good Handling

While behind the wheel of the 2018 Nissan Maxima, you will be inspired with a great deal of confidence. It delivers a very graceful performance on the road. Ride comfort is also a strong point for the new Maxima. Boasting a sports-tuned suspension and Active Ride Control technology, the Maxima SR is the most fun-to-drive trim in the lineup.

5. Slick Exterior Styling

Some car shoppers are immediately drawn to the Maxima’s powerful styling. Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille highlights the Maxima’s aggressive front fascia. Dual exhaust pipes come standard every trim. To give the racy SR model a sportier look, Nissan installed a set of 19-inch performance wheels. Some of the popular paint colors include Deep Blue Pearl, Coulis Red, and Super Black.

6. Cozy Zero Gravity Seats

When shopping for a new family vehicle, don’t overlook the importance of seat comfort. Nissan’s space-age Zero Gravity seats are among the best in the industry. They are designed to keep your body in the ideal anatomical position, which helps prevent stiffness on long road trips. While even the standard Zero Gravity seats are remarkably comfy, heated and ventilated seats are found on the higher trim levels.

7. Value-Priced Base S Model

If you don’t have a lot of extra money to spend, the base S model is destined to leave you satisfied. It has an attractive starting price of around $32,800. Like the rest of the lineup, the base 2018 Nissan Maxima comes equipped with a powerful V6 engine. Some of the other notable standard features include an 8.0-inch infotainment display, a backup camera, and an eight-speaker sound system.

8. Advanced Drive Assist Display

Nissan’s Advanced Drive Assist Display comes standard on every trim in the lineup. Mounted within the gauge cluster, the high-resolution display will certainly enhance your overall driving experience. From navigation instructions to safety warnings, you will have easy access to a lot of important information. The graphics are extremely clear, which enables you to remain focused on the task of driving.

9. Around View Monitor

Available on the luxurious Platinum trim, Nissan’s Around View Monitor is a must-have feature for urban dwellers. You will be able to obtain a 360-degree perspective of your surroundings. When parking in a busy downtown area, the Around View Monitor will help you to avoid fender benders on a daily basis.

10. Predictive Forward Collision Warning

Several advanced safety technologies are available for the 2018 Nissan Maxima. When equipped with Predictive Forward Collision Warning, the Maxima becomes an especially secure family vehicle. This cutting-edge technology can actually predict an accident two vehicles ahead. You will be able to react quickly during an emergency situation.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Nissan Maxima – The Cons

1. No Manual Gearbox

Although the 2018 Nissan Maxima is touted as a four-door sports car, the lack of an available manual transmission will be a disappointment for some drivers. In the eyes of some car enthusiasts, Nissan’s Xtronic CVT simply can’t match the fun factor of a traditional manual transmission. If you can’t live without a stick-shift transmission, the new 2018 Honda Accord may prove to be a good alternative to the Maxima.

2. Lacks All-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive comes standard on the new Maxima. While this sedan will maintain good traction in rainy weather, heavy snowfall could pose problems. This is an especially important factor for the drivers who are accustomed to experiencing harsh winters.

3. Backseat Not as Spacious

The 2018 Nissan Maxima is spacious enough for most people. Nevertheless, it provides less rear-seat legroom than some competitors. When sitting in the back, your long-legged family members may desire more space to stretch out. Although the Nissan Altima is not as luxurious as the Maxima, it does provide a bit more passenger room on the inside.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the Maxima’s primary rivals include the 2018 Toyota Avalon and the 2018 Acura TLX. In comparison to the Avalon, the Nissan Maxima’s edgier styling gives it a stronger road presence. The Maxima also offers a more impressive number of performance features. While the new Acura TLX brings a lot to the table, its forward collision warning system is not as advanced.

Conclusion:

The 2018 Nissan Maxima’s top-tier safety rating and amazingly comfortable seats will appeal to a lot families. A number of exciting technologies come standard. You will also find the Maxima to be a fun performance machine, especially the sports-tuned SR model.