NEW YORK: Nissan’s all-new Maxima sedan has been given a proper unveiling this week, following its brief appearance at February’s NFL Superbowl.
This latest Maxima builds on the carmaker’s bold new look, living up to former Nissan executive Andy Palmer’s promise that the new model would not be “that different from the [Sport Sedan] concept” revealed in early 2015.
As with the new Murano SUV that should hit Australia later this year, the new Maxima sedan’s styling merges sharp lines with muscular proportions and a coupe-like profile.
The company’s hooked lighting theme is evolved further here, showcasing a large arrow-like design to the lamps at both ends.
Both models, Maxima and Murano alike, also feature a new C-pillar treatment that sees a blacked-out panel and chrome garnish extend toward the very rear of the body.
The unveiling offers a first look at the new model’s interior, which Nissan describes as an environment that rivals the company’s more premium peers.
Stitched leather and aluminium highlights feature throughout the cabin, and a large 8.0-inch display dominates the the centre stack.
A flat-bottomed sports steering, its lower spokes inspired by the new model’s squared-off deep-vee grille, also features, with integrated controls and contrast stitching.
Just one engine will be offered with the new Maxima: Nissan’s 223kW 3.5 litre ‘VQ’ V6 petrol engine.
The new Maxima goes on sale in North America later this year.
Australia
Speaking with TMR, Nissan Australia’s Peter Fadayev could confirm only that there are no current plans to bring the new Maxima to Australia.
Australia’s last version of the Maxima, which was replaced by the Altima in 2013, was based on the Japanese-market Teana sedan, while the North American Maxima has been an entirely different design for the past three generations.
Fans of Nissan’s edgy new styling language can expect to see the new Murano here later this year.
