2016
Nissan
Maxima
The eighth generation, Nissan Maxima is all new for 2016; here’s what you need to know about it.
By Matt Stone
Ten Things to Know About the 2016 Nissan Maxima
It’s a handsome devil! Curvy and muscular, with a strong face and sparkling eyes — a great looking sport sedan (Nissan appropriately nicknames it the 4DSC, or 4-Door Sports Car). This elegantly rugged machine’s look was directly inspired by a sexy design study concept car that recently made its tour of the world’s international auto show runways.
The 2016 Nissan Maxima is assembled in Tennessee; even though Nissan is a distinctly Japanese brand and uses many made in Japan components, Max is put together in a plant that employs thousands of Americans. Quality is A-Plus.
Maxima’s brawny yet smooth 300-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 will really move you; this car isn’t quick, it’s genuinely fast and fun while handily meeting national tailpipe emissions standards.
A sophisticated easy-to-use Navigation system is standard on every new 2016 Nissan Maxima; the car’s technology and infotainment equipment level is way high, as is its safety hardware.
There are five trim level models running the “sports to luxury gamut,” all fully equipped with no confusing options package BS to sort through; choose your trim level (which establishes the equipment and features on board) and colors, and you’re on the road.
The ’16 Max gets better combined average fuel economy than most of its competitors.
The car rides beautifully and handles with confidence, plus great brakes – and it’s really quiet.
The leather and Alcantara lined cabin is super comfy, beautifully crafted and with good passenger room plus a large flat trunk – dialed in for double-date night or road trips with your posse.
Competes hard with Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Kia Cadenza, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Acura TLX, Lexus ES and GS, even BMW 3 Series.
Prices run from $33,235 to $40,860, ready to rock
Final Thoughts
The new Maxima is sexier and sportier than many of the mid-to-full-sized V-6 engined sedan offerings on the market, and earns its 4DSC nickname.
Lionhearted engine, and great handling and brakes
Great ride, quiet inside, and comfy too
Swoopy roofline costs you a bit of rear headroom, but who cares?