When we last drove the Nissan Maxima, we were impressed by its 300-horsepower V6 engine and semi-sports car level performance. However, we thought the car was in need of a few changes to make it the best of what Nissan calls a "four-door sports car." Some juicy rumors indicated that our prayers would be answered in January of 2019 with the reveal of an all-new Maxima, but last month, Nissan teased a facelifted model that would instead be revealed at the 2018 LA Auto Show. Now, the facelifted 2019 Maxima has arrived in LA alongside the facelifted 2019 Murano.
For 2019, the Maxima returns with its 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 300 hp sending power to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission. However, the exterior styling and available features have undergone some significant changes.
"Maxima checks all the boxes for sports sedan enthusiasts, and now, with the refreshed appearance, refined interior and enhanced safety and security technology, there are even more reasons that Maxima stands out from every other mid-size sedan on the market today," said Dan Mohnke, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing and Operations for Nissan North America.
The Maxima's new exterior design was drawn up by Nissan Design America in La Jolla, California. It features a deeper V-motion front grille, jewel-like LED headlights, new rear taillights, and a redesigned rear fascia which includes quad-tip exhaust and a new rear spoiler on the Maxima SR grade. Nissan has also designed new wheels for all five trim levels and added a new color called Sunset Drift.
Inside, Nissan has made some unique changes including a new seat insert pattern and charcoal headliner for SR and Platinum Reserve Package grades. The Platinum Reserve grade will feature Rakuda Tan semi-aniline leather appointments and bronze accents, similar to what is found on the GT-R. Other interior improvements include standard rear door alert on all grade levels, revised SiriusXM satellite radio with advanced auto features, and revised Nissan door-to-door Navigation system on all grades except the S.
The 2019 Maxima will be available in five grade levels including S, SV, SL, the sporty SR, and the luxurious Platinum. Pricing hasn't be announced but the 2019 Maxima will arrive in dealerships in mid-December. Only two options will be available - the SR Premium Package includes a panoramic moonroof, Safety Shield 360 technology, and a surround view monitor while the Platinum Reserve Package adds exclusive 19-inch wheels, heated rear seats, and the Rakuda Tan semi-aniline interior.