2023 Nissan Maxima Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2023 Nissan Maxima remains a viable choice for drivers who’re seeking an entry-level luxury sedan. Although the Maxima may not be a true four-door sports car, it packs enough performance to entertain most motorists. Reviewers especially applaud the Maxima for its supreme comfort and handsome exterior styling. Excellent safety scores also make this sedan a rewarding option for families.

Affordability is yet another upside to the Nissan Maxima. It’s less expensive than a lot of popular European models, including the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. When hunting for a new Maxima, buyers will have three trim configurations to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of how these trims compare.

Compare the Maxima SV vs SR Trims. What is the difference?

Folks who wish to keep costs under $40,000 will want the SV trim. It brings a generous number of popular features without forcing buyers to reach too deep into their pockets. Most experts consider the Maxima SV to be a strong value.

Only one powertrain is offered on the 2023 Nissan Maxima. Motivation stems from Nissan’s award-winning 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine. Although there are more potent options in the segment, most drivers will find the Maxima’s engine to be quite pleasing. It’s rated to generate a total of 300 horsepower and just over 260 lb-ft of torque. An estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds proves the Maxima can accelerate quickly when called upon.

Paired to the engine is Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. This gearless transmission is designed to optimize the sedan’s fuel economy, which stands at 20 mpg in town and 30 mpg on the freeway. Nissan does advise the use of premium gasoline for peak performance. Like all versions of the Maxima, the SV trim features a front-wheel-drive system. An AWD system is not offered.

A standard Drive Mode Selector allows drivers to pick from two different settings. While the Normal mode is ideal for daily commutes, switching to the Sport mode makes the car more engaging to drive. It increases steering feel and optimizes overall engine responsiveness.

The Maxima SV is a great pick for taking road trips. Its standard suspension is tuned to deliver great comfort on all types of pavement. A feature called Active Ride Control also helps ensure a smoother ride on bumpy roads.

Drivers can also expect the Maxima SV to handle well for a midsize luxury sedan. When encountering curves, Nissan’s standard Intelligent Trace Control system can apply gentle braking pressure to each individual wheel. This ultimately enhances the sedan’s stability around corners.

In terms of exterior styling, the Maxima only looks slightly less aggressive than the higher trim levels. LED running lights accent the sedan’s boomerang-style LED headlamps. A large V-Motion grille helps the front fascia to make a serious statement. To give the rear a racier appearance, Nissan adds quad exhaust finishers. LED taillights and a cool set of 18-inch alloy wheels are also standard equipment.

Heated side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals make the Maxima SV an even better bang for the buck. Available SV trim paint colors include Scarlet Ember Tintcoat, Super Black, Brilliant Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Pearl, Gun Metallic, and Pearl White Tricoat. For drivers who desire more flair, Nissan offers an optional rear spoiler and upgraded 18-inch wheels.

The Maxima SV’s interior has a quality look and feel. Leather upholstery with contrast stitching adds a luxurious touch. Satin chrome accents further enhance the cabin’s attractiveness.

Nissan’s superb Zero Gravity front seats with 3D bolsters come standard. These NASA-inspired seats are engineered to keep passengers in a neutral sitting position, thus minimizing fatigue on long drives. Built-in heating modes help ensure improved comfort on cold days.

Before drivers even step outside, the Maxima SV’s remote engine start system with Intelligent Climate Control allows them to warm up or cool down the cabin. Other standard amenities include a flat-bottom sport steering wheel with tilt/telescoping functions, automatic dual-zone temperature control, and push-button ignition.

The SV trim does provide today’s most popular infotainment technologies. Nissan’s standard 8.0-inch touchscreen can be connected to the driver’s smartphone via either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. A Wi-Fi hotspot is also built into the interface, thus allowing every passenger to log onto the internet. Meanwhile, a hands-free Text Messaging Assistant helps safely communicate with others while on the go.

While behind the wheel of the Maxima SV, drivers can take advantage of Nissan’s Advanced Drive-Assist Display. This 7.0-inch screen can provide quick access to important information, including driving directions and fuel level.

Luckily, Maxima fans don’t have to pay extra in order to enjoy a decent music-listening experience. The SV trim comes loaded with an eight-speaker audio system. SiriusXM satellite radio, USB-C connectivity, and a CD player are included as well.

An underrated feature is the SV trim’s Easy Fill Tire Alert system. It takes the hassle out of inflating the tires. When the proper pressure is reached, the system will honk the horn.

Aside from boasting a top safety rating from the NHTSA, the Maxima also comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360 safety package. If you’re in danger of experiencing a frontal collision, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring can intervene. Meanwhile, Blind Spot Warning makes drivers aware of any hidden vehicles. Other important driving aids include reverse automatic braking, lane departure alert, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beams.

To give tired motorists an extra sense of security, Nissan equips the Maxima SV with a driver attention monitor. It’s designed to watch out for signs of drowsiness. Folks who spend a lot of time on the road will greatly appreciate the SV trim’s intelligent cruise control system. When activated, this system can automatically regulate speed and maintain a secure following distance.

Another slot up the trim ladder is the sportier Maxima SR. Although this trim does not provide any extra horsepower, it does receive a performance suspension with firmer springs. This is an appealing feature for drivers who desire more precise handling. A larger front stabilizer also helps enhance the sedan’s cornering capabilities. Keep in mind that the SR trim’s ride will be a tad stiffer.

Another racy upgrade is the Maxima SR’s paddle shifters. They enable driving enthusiasts to have just a bit more fun.

Special appearance upgrades further differentiate the SR trim from the SV trim. Nissan outfits it with 19-inch black alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Blacked-out accents further boost the sedan’s curb appeal. LED fog lights also come standard on the Maxima SR. There are only three available exterior colors: Super Black, Gun Metallic, and Pearl White Tricoat.

The Maxima SR offers more than just a sportier drive. It also receives some luxurious interior treatments, such as perforated leather seating surfaces with diamond-quilted Alcantara inserts and a black headliner. Drivers who often encounter frigid weather during the winter will enjoy the SR trim’s heated steering wheel. Other niceties consist of an upgraded driver’s seat with manual thigh extenders, a six-way power passenger seat, a dual-panel sunroof, and ambient interior lighting.

The SR trim’s Bose premium audio system will delight music lovers. It packs a total of 11 high-performance speakers. Centerpoint 2 Surround technology helps take sound quality to the next stage. Along with the Bose audio system also comes Active Noise Cancellation, which helps quell outside noise.

Like the entry-level SV trim, the SR trim has an 8.0-inch touchscreen. However, it adds Nissan Door to Door Navigation. Drivers can easily obtain road maps and real-time traffic info. Rear USB charging ports enable passengers sitting in the backseat to power up their electronic devices.

When moving up to the mid-level SR trim, buyers will receive a 360-degree Intelligent Around View Monitor. When maneuvering in parking areas, this four-camera system definitely helps improve visibility from all angles. Built-in Moving Object Detection technology further heightens the driver’s degree of awareness. Front parking sensors are also found on the Maxima SR.

Another key safety feature is the Maxima SR’s Intelligent Lane Intervention system. If the sedan begins to drift outside its lane, the system can provide steering assistance.

Compare the Maxima SR vs Platinum Trim Levels. What is the difference?

Atop the range sits the Maxima Platinum. It loses the SR trim’s sports-tuned suspension. Expect the Maxima Platinum’s ride and handling to be similar to that of the SV trim.

To give the Platinum trim an aggressive stance, Nissan equips it with unique 19-inch wheels. On the inside is where the Platinum trim separates itself from the other trim grades. Semi-aniline leather upholstery and maple wood treatments help give the cabin a more premium feel. Meanwhile, rear passengers can enjoy the warmth of heated seats. Illuminated kick plates, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and a rear-window power sunshade are also found on the Platinum trim.

In contrast to the other available trims, the Maxima Platinum receives rain-sensing windshield wipers. They automatically adjust to the intensity of the rain, thus helping drivers to better concentrate on the road ahead.

Final Thoughts

Of the three available Maxima trim grades, the SV trim is the most affordable. It is roughly $5,100 less expensive than the SR trim. Luckily, buyers will enjoy a satisfying number of features. Just a few of the highlights include heated Zero Gravity front seats, a modern infotainment system, and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Of course, several advanced safety technologies come with the sedan’s standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 package.

Most drivers will be more than content with the Maxima SV’s performance. Nissan’s strong V6 engine supplies plenty of muscle. The car’s standard suspension also promotes a good balance of agility and ride comfort.

Driving enthusiasts who prefer a slightly more aggressive sedan will lean more towards the Maxima SR. Its firmer suspension setup promotes a sportier drive. Many people also favor the Maxima SR’s racier appearance. Other big upgrades include a high-performance Bose sound system, Nissan Door to Door Navigation, Intelligent Lane Intervention, and Nissan’s Intelligent Around View Monitor camera system.

The range-topping Maxima Platinum offers the most luxurious driving experience. Its MSRP is only $1,000 higher. This trim is essentially a more upscale version of the entry-level SV trim.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2022 Nissan Maxima Trim Levels