2010 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV Review
Your authorized Nissan GT-R and Leaf dealer in the West Island of Montreal.
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2010 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV Review
by Rob Rothwell / Auto123.com
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As with all sports cars, power to the wheels is an important criterion, and by any yardstick the Maxima measures up. Thanks to the efficiency of the CVT, the VQ’s output is maximized, resulting in strong acceleration off-the-line or from any speed. The firm hit of power is often more than expected.
Nissan has pretty well dispensed of torque steer, the demon of front-wheel-drive. Despite the onslaught of power, the Maxima remains stable as its front wheels claw for traction, but that’s in a “best case scenario.”
Unfortunately, on a rutted road or when confronting uneven pavement, the devil returns. Care has to be taken under hard acceleration in such conditions to ensure the Maxima remains on the straight and narrow; fortunately, these circumstances are fairly rare.
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| The base Maxima rings-in with an MSRP of $39,450. My tester chimed in at $41,635 due to its Sport Package option. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com) |
My tester was equipped with the optional Sport Package, which includes sport-tuned suspension. These underpinnings impart delightfully responsive handling characteristics, giving further credibility to the “4-door sports car” claim.
The Maxima’s athleticism carries with it fairly firm ride dynamics. Ride quality, while by no means harsh, is not “luxury car” absorbent. It is however composed and secure thanks to a rigid body structure and a stiff platform.
Max wrap
The base Maxima rings-in with an MSRP of $39,450. My tester chimed in at $41,635 due to its Sport Package option. Overall value is notable given the Maxima’s blend of performance, quality and luxury.
I once again enjoyed my time in the Maxima, as I have in the past. It’s a reasonably unique offering in the popular ‘luxury performance’ segment that leans toward the “performance” side of the equation.
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