Used 2019 Nissan Maxima

2019 Nissan Maxima: The "Four-Door Sports Car"

The 2019 Nissan Maxima continues its legacy as a compelling option for those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality in a sedan. Positioned as Nissan's flagship model, it aims to deliver a spirited driving experience without sacrificing everyday comfort and advanced technology. For 2019, the Maxima received minor updates, focusing on refining an already well-received package.

Highlights

• Engine: The heart of the 2019 Maxima is its robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a healthy 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. This power plant, paired with Nissan's Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with an "Sport" mode and manual shift capabilities, provides strong acceleration and responsive performance for its class. The CVT has been engineered to mimic a traditional automatic transmission's gear shifts, offering a more engaging feel.
• Safety Features: Nissan emphasizes safety across its lineup, and the 2019 Maxima is no exception, offering a comprehensive suite of available driver-assistance technologies:
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident.
  • Blind Spot Warning (BSW): Alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spot.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns of approaching traffic from either side when the vehicle is in reverse.
  • Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically slowing down or speeding up as needed.
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Intervention (LI): Warns the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and can provide gentle steering correction.
  • Rear Automatic Braking: Helps prevent rear-end collisions by detecting obstacles when backing up and automatically applying the brakes.
  • High Beam Assist: Automatically switches headlights between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic.
• Trim Summary: The 2019 Maxima is offered in several well-appointed trims, each building upon the previous:
  • Maxima S: The entry-level trim, still generously equipped with features like an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rearview monitor.
  • Maxima SV: Adds premium features such as leather-appointed seating, heated and ventilated front seats, an 8-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support, and a 4-way power front passenger seat.
  • Maxima SL: Elevates the luxury with a premium Bose® audio system, a dual-panel panoramic moonroof, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and ambient interior lighting.
  • Maxima SR: Positioned as the sportiest trim, it includes unique 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension with active suspension damping, premium Ascot leather-appointed seats with Alcantara® inserts, and sportier interior accents.
  • Maxima Platinum: The pinnacle of the Maxima range, this trim boasts premium semi-aniline leather-appointed seating, power-adjustable steering column, intelligent driver's seat with driver's memory, and a surround-view monitor.
• Other Notable Aspects:
  • "Zero Gravity" Seats: Nissan's ergonomically designed front seats are engineered to reduce pressure points and promote comfort on longer journeys.
  • Premium Interior: The cabin is designed with a driver-centric cockpit and utilizes quality materials, offering a near-luxury feel.
  • Intuitive Infotainment: The 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen system is user-friendly and supports essential smartphone integration.
  • Distinctive Styling: The Maxima's aggressive "V-Motion" grille and flowing body lines give it a sporty and upscale appearance that stands out in the sedan segment.

What to Expect

The typical ownership experience of a 2019 Nissan Maxima is characterized by a comfortable and engaging ride. The powerful V6 engine ensures effortless acceleration for merging onto highways and overtaking. The interior is a pleasant place to spend time, with supportive seats and a quiet cabin that insulates occupants from road noise. Daily usability is enhanced by the intuitive infotainment system and ample interior space for four adults.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance will follow Nissan's recommended schedule, typically involving oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions), tire rotations, and brake inspections. The CVT is generally reliable, but fluid changes at recommended intervals are crucial for its longevity. Other common maintenance items include cabin air filter replacements, spark plug changes (around 100,000 miles), and coolant flushes. Given the V6 engine and performance orientation, some owners might opt for premium fuel to maximize performance, although it is not strictly required.

Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2019 Maxima will vary based on factors such as the driver's age, driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels. However, as a flagship sedan with a powerful engine and advanced safety features, it may command slightly higher insurance premiums compared to more mainstream sedans. Comprehensive and collision coverage will likely be recommended given the vehicle's value and performance capabilities.

Potential Considerations

• CVT Behavior: While Nissan has refined its Xtronic CVT, some drivers may still find the transmission's responses to be less immediate or engaging than a traditional automatic or a dual-clutch transmission, particularly during spirited driving. The simulated gear shifts help mitigate this, but the underlying CVT characteristics are still present.
• Rear Seat Space: While the Maxima comfortably seats four adults, the sloping roofline, while contributing to its sporty profile, can slightly limit rear headroom for taller passengers. The rear bench is best suited for two adults for optimal comfort.
• Trunk Space: The Maxima's trunk offers a respectable amount of cargo space for a sedan, but its opening can be somewhat restrictive for larger or bulkier items due to the coupe-like styling.
• Fuel Economy: While not excessively poor for its class and engine size, the 300-horsepower V6 will not be as fuel-efficient as smaller turbocharged four-cylinder engines found in some competitors.

Overall Summary

The 2019 Nissan Maxima remains a compelling choice for buyers seeking a sporty, upscale, and well-equipped sedan. Its potent V6 engine, comfortable and feature-rich interior, and comprehensive suite of available safety technologies make it a strong contender in the near-luxury segment. While the CVT may not appeal to every driving enthusiast, and rear seat space is a minor consideration, the Maxima successfully delivers on its promise of a "four-door sports car" experience, offering a rewarding and refined ownership proposition.