2011 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV FWD CVT

Model Highlights

The 2011 Nissan Maxima S and SV both come with a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and a continuously variable transmission with manual mode. Anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution are standard equipment, plus speed-sensitive power steering. The Maxima's sporty styling is evident in its dual mufflers with chrome-tipped finishers, LED taillights and power sliding moonroof. It's even got 18-inch alloy wheels, though 19-inchers are available with the Sport Package. The Maxima isn't all about looks, though. All of its safety features are standard equipment, like traction control, tire pressure monitoring, an energy-absorbing steering column and the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System. Even with all these systems on board, the Maxima still manages a respectable 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The interior has leather seats, shift knob and steering wheel. The 8-way power driver's seat has lumbar support, while the passenger has to make do with a 4-way power seat. The rear bucket seats fold down with a 60/40 split. Dual-zone climate control with air filter is standard, including rear-seat air conditioning controls. Everything in the Maxima is power, from the push-button start to the remote windows-down function. The packaged options for the SV add quite a bit to the already-long list of features. The Monitor Package adds a 7-inch monitor with rear-view camera and a 2GB Music Box flash drive, and the Cold Package heats the mirrors, front seats and steering wheel. The Sport package gives the Maxima SV a sportier feel with a tuned suspension and 19-inch wheels, smoked headlights, plus a rear spoiler, dark chrome grille and unique shiny gray interior stitching and metallic trim. The Premium Package plays to the more luxurious side of the Maxima, with a dual-panel moonroof, heated and cooled driver's seat and eucalyptus wood-tone interior trim. Both the Sport and Premium packages include the Monitor package, plus paddle shifters and HID xenon headlights.