2006 Nissan Maxima
Saturday, February 25th, 2006
The Maxima is Nissan’s midsize sport sedan which received both new styling and an increase in performance with the introduction of the sixth-generation Maxima for 2004. The Maxima originally joined the Nissan lineup for the 1981 model year as a rear-wheel drive sedan and received a V6 engine for the first time in 1984 before the second-generation Maxima switched to a front-wheel-drive configuration. Nissan has referred to the Maxima over the years in marketing materials as a “4-door sports car” and the current version aims to fit that description.
The all new 2006 Nissan’s Nissan Maxima received a stronger V-6 and a new Skyview roof that features a narrow glass panel running lengthwise between the front and rear seats. An Elite Package included a fixed, full center console that provides four-passenger seating, with rear buckets rather than a bench seat.The more Performance-oriented 3.5 SE and luxury-focused 3.5 SL models are offered. For 2006, either Sirius or XM Satellite Radio can be installed, and a Bluetooth-based hands-free phone system is available.
Exterior
The 2006 Nissan Maxima features distinctive C-pillars that extend beyond the rear window in a “flying buttress” configuration to form a coupelike silhouette. Boldly sculpted fender openings add to the car’s sporty nature. All Maximas come standard with the Skyview roof, but a traditional front sunroof is optional.Combination headlight elements are available with xenon bulbs. Six-spoke alloy wheels hold 18-inch tires on the 3.5 SE, while the 3.5 SL gets 17-inch tires. Two fully independent suspensions are available: performance-tuned for the 3.5 SE and luxury-tuned for a supple ride in the 3.5 SL.
Interior
Seating for five occupants is standard, but the Elite Package reduces the seat count to four with the installation of twin bucket seats and a console in the rear. The package includes heated rear seats and a powered rear sunshade.An eight-speaker 320-watt Bose premium stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer is standard in the 3.5 SL. A navigation system is optional.
Under the Hood
The Maxima’s 3.5-liter V-6 produces 265 horsepower and 255 pounds-feet of torque. The engine in the 3.5 SL drives a five-speed-automatic transmission. The 3.5 SE can be equipped with either the automatic transmission or a close-ratio six-speed-manual gearbox.
Safety
Standard features include four-channel all-disc antilock brakes, side-impact airbags and side curtain-type airbags. The front seats have active head restraints. Vehicle Dynamic Control is optional.
Driving Impressions
Even though the Maxima delivers more road noise than expected, it’s a top-notch highway cruiser. Ride quality in the 3.5 SE is excellent. Riders will feel significant bumps, but that’s a small price to pay for such sporty handling and precise response. The Maxima remains impressively flat through curves. The 3.5 SE’s five-speed-automatic transmission performs with extra-smooth gear changes and prompt reactions.Expect plenty of power from the refined 2006 Nissan Maxima V-6, which cruises comfortably and pulls avidly. The 3.5 SE’s six-speed-manual gearbox is exceptionally smooth. The Skyview sunroof is most appealing to rear occupants.
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