2012 Nissan Maxima Overview

The 2012 Nissan Maxima, which comes in S and SV trims, features a 290-hp 3.5L V6 engine connected to a continuously variable transmission with manual mode as its only powertrain. 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 Limited Edition Package includes smoky headlight lenses, fog lamps, silver aluminum wheels, rear spoiler, a special grille and metallic interior trim.

The Sport package includes 19-inch silver alloy wheels, sport suspension, HID headlamps, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, paddle shifters, heated front seats and rear bucket seats.

The Premium package includes a dual-panel moonroof, a climate-controlled driver seat, rearview monitor, USB input and cherry wood trim.

2012 Nissan Maxima Model Changes

The Maxima gets some minor exterior freshening and gains a new Limited Edition package. It upgrades the wheels to 18-inch silver ones, a rear spoiler, HID headlamps, fog lamps and a special dark grille.

2012 Nissan Maxima Value

The Maxima's sporty styling and handling plus its long list of standard features makes it a solid performer in its segment. There are two trim levels, plus Sport and Premium packages, which can be added for the maximum in comfort and technology.

2012 Nissan Maxima Strengths

Smooth and powerful drivetrain; comfortable interior with easy-to-use controls; lots of standard features at all trim levels