2019 Nissan Maxima Pros vs Cons

Touted as a “four-door sports car” by Nissan, the 2019 Nissan Maxima remains a great choice for the drivers seeking comfort and performance. Good fuel economy also allows you to travel without breaking the bank. Easy-to-use features further highlight the new Maxima as a rewarding daily-driver. Let’s examine the pros and cons of the 2019 Nissan Maxima.

What’s New for 2019?

This year, Nissan has updated the Maxima by installing new LED headlights. You will also benefit from the Maxima’s newly available safety technologies. Diamond-quilted leather seats are now optional on the range-topping Platinum trim.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Nissan Maxima – The Pros

1. Ample Performance for a Midsize Sedan

Although the 2019 Nissan Maxima is not built to hang with a Porsche 911, it still manages to deliver the necessary performance. The heart of the sedan is its DOHC V6 engine, which has received multiple awards over the years. Nissan rates it to develop a fulfilling 300 horsepower and 261 horsepower. An Xtronic CVT transmission helps conserve fuel. You can anticipate getting an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in traffic and 30 mpg on the highway.

2. Fun-to-Drive SR Model

If you desire more fun on the road, choose the SR model. Although the Maxima SR may not pack more muscle under the hood, it does deliver more responsive handling. Replacing the standard suspension is a track-inspired suspension with stiffer springs and a thicker front stabilizer bar. Intelligent Trace Control also helps stabilize the sedan around corners. Fortunately, the Maxima SR’s improved agility does not result in a harsh ride. Active Ride Control technology helps smooth out rough patches of pavement.

3. Refreshed Exterior Styling

Nissan designed the new Maxima to have a bolder appearance. The front fascia is highlighted by new LED headlamps and a more pronounced V-Motion grille. You’ll also notice the sedan’s more exciting rear fascia. It boasts a sleeker bumper, which includes redesigned exhaust tips. Nissan has updated the Maxima’s taillights as well. New wheel designs further bolster the car’s curb appeal. SR models feature a trunk-mounted spoiler. Some of the special exterior colors include Sunset Drift Chromaflair and Scarlet Ember Tintcoat.

4. Superb Zero-Gravity Front Seats

Automotive journalists rave amount the Maxima’s comfortable interior design. Nissan’s standard Zero Gravity front seats are among the best in the segment. They are specifically engineered to keep your back in its natural position. This is a big plus for the folks who are suffering from lower back pain. While these seats are great for everyday commuting, you’ll especially appreciate how well they support your body on long road trips. Heated/ventilated seat functions come standard on the SR and Platinum trims.

5. Value-Packed Base Model

Upper trims obviously come equipped with a greater number of luxuries. Nevertheless, the base 2019 Nissan Maxima S comes loaded with in-demand features. An attractive starting MSRP of $33,950 enables the base model to save you big bucks. Standard LED headlights make the new Maxima an even better bargain than before. You also don’t have to pay extra for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Navigation and remote engine start come standard as well.

6. Wi-Fi Available Throughout the Lineup

Like most people, you probably consider the internet to be an important part of your life. If you want to save your mobile phone’s data, take advantage of the Maxima’s optional Wi-Fi hot spot. You will not regret spending the extra $450. Whether you’re heading home after work or taking a weekend road trip, access to the web will be readily available. Multiple devices can link to the Wi-Fi hot spot, which is a major benefit from the drivers who have a family.

7. More Safety Technologies

For 2019, the Nissan Maxima comes standard with more standard safety features. This means you’ll be getting more value for your money. Aside from forward collision warning with automatic braking, driver attention warning and a Rear Door Reminder feature now come standard on every new 2019 Nissan Maxima. Traffic Sign Recognition is available on the upper trims. An updated Nissan Safety Shield 360 package is also offered, which includes innovations like rear automatic braking and pedestrian detection.

8. Bose Premium Sound System

If you aren’t completely satisfied with the standard eight-speaker stereo system, the Bose premium audio system won’t leave you disappointed. It lines the cabin with a total of 11 high-quality speakers. Bose designed the system to perfectly match the cabin’s acoustics. Centerpoint surround technology makes your music sound more like a live performance. Along with the Bose unit comes Active Noise Cancellation, which ensures an even quieter ride.

9. Sharp, Easy-to-Use Infotainment System

Once criticized for its dated graphics and sluggish performance, Nissan’s infotainment system has improved dramatically. You’ll love the interface’s high-resolution touch screen. Big icons enable you to clearly see the display without straining your eyes. A simple menu layout also makes NissanConnect a breeze to use. Like a premium luxury sedan such as the BMW 5-Series, the 2019 Nissan Maxima benefits from a controller knob.

10. Driver-Focused Cockpit

The Maxima’s cockpit makes you feel in control. All of the key controls are angled towards the driver. Even the climate system is straightforward. You’ll also appreciate the standard Advance Drive Assist Display. This driver information screen enables you to easily access information such as fuel consumption and safety alerts. Real-time driving directions can also be displayed.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Nissan Maxima – The Cons

1. No High-Performance Model Offered

Although the 2019 Nissan Maxima may be billed as a sports sedan, it can’t match the performance of its German counterparts. A turbocharged V6 engine would take the Maxima’s driving excitement to the next level. Furthermore, some drivers may not enjoy the Maxima’s gear-less transmission. Although effective at minimizing fuel consumption, Nissan’s Xtronic continuous variable transmission feels different from a traditional automatic transmission. Driving enthusiasts will also notice the sedan’s quiet exhaust note.

2. Would Benefit From a More Spacious Backseat

The 2019 Nissan Maxima is a very relaxing car to drive. Even tall people will have plenty of room in the front. Unfortunately, some rear passengers will desire more space to extend their legs. A sleek roof also compromises headroom in the back. Drivers who have a tall family will find the new Nissan Altima to be more accommodating. It actually has a greater passenger volume than the Maxima.

3. No All-Wheel Drive

Front-wheel drive comes standard on every new 2019 Nissan Maxima. While the Maxima performs well in rainy weather, snowy conditions will cause diminished traction. All-wheel drive is not offered. Folks living in a cold-weather region will likely need an AWD car. The new Subaru Legacy is a good alternative to the Maxima.

4. Some High-End Features Not Available

The 2019 Nissan Altima offers enough luxury for most drivers. However, others will desire a greater number of premium features. Goodies, like a head-up driving display and massaging seats, are not available.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

When shopping for a new midsize sedan, you may also consider the 2019 Toyota Camry. While the Camry is a nice car, it does not feel as luxurious on the inside. Quilted leather upholstery gives the Maxima Platinum an especially plush feel. You’ll also find the Maxima’s front seats to offer greater support. Furthermore, only the Maxima comes standard with a powerful V6 engine.

While the 2019 Chevrolet Impala is spacious and comfortable, it can’t match the Maxima’s interior quality. The Impala’s standard four-cylinder engine is also far less potent. Advanced safety technologies, like reverse automatic braking and a 360-degree parking camera, are only offered on the 2019 Nissan Maxima.

The 2019 Dodge Charger is another one of the segment’s popular choices. However, base versions of the Charger have a lower quality interior. While the Charger’s front seats feel nice, most people will prefer the Maxima’s Zero Gravity front seats.

Conclusion

There are plenty of upsides to the 2019 Nissan Maxima. Although the Maxima may not be a genuine sports sedan, its lively V6 engine and solid handling equate to a fun driving experience. You also can’t forget about the Maxima’s sculpted exterior styling. Some of the most fulfilling standard features include automatic emergency braking, Nissan’s luxurious infotainment system, and the Zero Gravity front seats. Drivers seeking top-level luxury should take the Maxima Platinum for a spin.