NISSAN has smartened up the long-lived Maxima by splitting the range in two for the largely new J32 series. The cheaper 250 ST-L is seeking to steal sales from the medium car segment, while the 350 ST-S and 350 Ti are targeting the same larger models as previous Maximas, effectively giving the Japanese company a two-pronged attack. Keenly priced and brimming with standard features, this finally may be the Maxima that makes a mark on the Australian new-car market.
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Nissan J31 Maxima
Released: Dec 2003
Ended: May 2009
Family Tree: MaximaNISSAN’S sixth-generation Maxima seemed more than a little influenced by Renault design, with its clean surfaces inside and out. But it was still an incredibly comfort-orientated sedan, with soft suspension settings to match the large and inviting seats, so keen drivers were left out in the cold. This is despite the inclusion of the world-renowned 170kW/333Nm 3.5-litre VQ35 V6 petrol engine. Paired first with a four-speed automatic gearbox and then – from early 2006 – a smooth CVT gearbox, the Maxima’s performance was peerlessly sweet for the money. Three models were offered, the base ST-L, mid-range Ti, and upmarket Ti-L. However, after a strong sales start, the J31 Maxima fell victim to skyrocketing petrol prices and the global move away from large cars.
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