Base price: GXE, $25,439; SE, $26,189; GLE, $28,098
Vehicle type: front-engine, front-drive; 4-door 5-passenger sedan
Interior volume, F/R/cargo (cu ft) 60/43/15
Wheelbase 108.3 in
Length/width/height 191.5/70.3/56.3–57.1 in
Turning circle 35.4–40.0 ft
Curb weight 3200–3300 lb
EPA city/hwy mpg 20–21/26–28
Fuel-tank capacity/range 18.5 gal/370–389 mi
Passive restraints driver and passenger front and side (opt) airbags
POWERTRAIN
3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6, 255 hp; 6-sp man, 4-sp auto
SUSPENSION
F ind, struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
R rigid axle with scissor link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
BRAKES
F/R vented disc/disc
ABS standard
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NISSAN MAXIMA
High praise for Nissan’s sporty Maxima went up another notch last year with styling and performance upgrades, particularly the addition of a superb 3.5-liter V-6 that makes the 255 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. But with a new Maxima coming next year, Nissan settles for a bit of fine-tuning for its 2003 flagship sedan. A new optional Titanium Edition package for SE models (with titanium-colored trim to distinguish it from the ’02) includes a Bose audio system, front-seat side-impact air bags (also added to GLE models), some interior styling tweaks, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Standard hardware for all models includes ABS and brake assist with electronic brake-force distribution. There’s also a high level of standard interior comfort-and-convenience features. But the best part is that the Maxima can be hustled through canyons and switchbacks like few family sedans.
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