The last one was a "sporty" family sedan with no 4-cylinder option. The Altima replaced it in the lineup, and has a 4-cylinder option. Nissan for some reason has always tried to sell three sedans here (Sentra, Stanza/Altima, Maxima) when all the other Japanese companies save for Toyota do fine with just fine with two models.

 

Now I believe that there is a French influence on the tooth design.

 

i dont like the look of any of the new nissans really.... the styling or something, they have a really "plasticky" look to them.

sean

 

That's great. Why is this thread stickied?

jaje :fawk:
Chris :fawk:

 

Because I had an idea to sticky the 2 or 3 most important threads about new cars so they won't float to the bottom. It's not my fault that I had to make the decision all by my lonesome :fawk:

 

Tuesday March 4, 9:23 pm ET

GARDENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 4, 2003--Nissan North America, Inc. today announced pricing on its stylish Maxima flagship sedan, which goes on sale March 5, 2003 at more than 1,000 Nissan dealers nationwide. The new Maxima features a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $26,950 for the sporty 3.5 SE equipped with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or available 6-speed manual transmission, while the luxurious 3.5 SL features an MSRP of $28,900.

The all-new 2004 Nissan Maxima continues the formula passed down from five previous generations -- an unmatched blend of performance and luxury. The sixth generation Maxima combines powerful performance from the award-winning 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine with expressive sports styling. The new Maxima's bold design innovations include a new standard Skyview(TM) roof, with a glass panel running lengthwise over the front and rear seats, and a new Elite Package, which features a fixed, rear center console that creates true 4-place seating.

"The new Maxima is more stylish, refined and evolved than ever," said Bill Kirrane, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. "Maxima's Skyview roof, an industry first for the mid-size sedan segment, is a bold feature and we made it standard, while the optional Elite Package adds to the sports sedan heritage of Maxima, providing seating similar to a 2-door sports coupe."

Maxima's legendary performance continues with the use of the award-winning VQ 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, refined for 2004 to produce 265 horsepower and 255 lb-ft torque. The VQ engine series has been recognized as one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward's Auto World magazine for nine consecutive years.

For the first time, Maxima will be assembled in the United States, at Nissan's award-winning manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn.

Complete pricing and option packages are available on the following sheet.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com or contact the corporate media line at 310/771-5631.

click on link to see pricing/options packages
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/030304/45788_1.html

 

The new Maxima was def hit with the ugly stick. I prefer the 5th gen a lot more than this new beastly looking thing. Nissan fudged up IMO, wonder how the sales are gonna do? People might buy it for its reputation and engine rather than looks.

 

It's like a cross between the G35 and the Murano. Not very good execution at all. The Maxima has always been known for it's tasteful changes but this is pretty out there. This may hamper sales of many loyal Maxima fans who every few years buy a new one.

 

So I hear the Maxima SL comes with a 4spd auto, while the SE has a optional 5spd auto. Can anyone confirm this? If this is true, why separate automatics? :dunno:

 

The 4 speed auto in the SL is supposed to offer smooth, somewhat slow shifts that are said to have a "luxury" feel (ie Buick), while the 5 speed automatic w/ Manumatic shifting is supposed to offer firmer & quicker gear changes that are said to enhance the sportier nature of the SE (ie BMW).