Nissan launches production of redesigned 2016 Maxima sedan

May 13, 2015

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If you were paying attention, you might have noticed our full-sized sedan stalwart, the Maxima, was missing from the 2015 model line-up. In fact, it’s only the first time in its 38 year run that it hasn’t been in production. The fully-redesigned 2016 model brings the Maxima back with a bang, having launched production in Smyrna, Tennessee last month. Combining looks and a bevy of features in a package priced for the value-conscious, it could well redefine full-size sedans as we look at them.

A Brand-New Exterior

The outside of the 2016 Maxima might look a little familiar – it is a molded and sculpted version of the Sport Sedan Compact that Nissan introduced in 2014. The design has been modified to provide a bit more appeal to the everyday driver, and a little more staying power, than the concept design. It has flowing lines, a sporty rear end, and a wide stance that all provide an air of aggression. This look can be modified through a handful of available accessories, ranging from unique tires to splash guards, plus nine available colors.

Keeping a Good Thing Going

One area that has only been changed slightly is what drives the 2016 Maxima. A 3.5-liter engine is still under the hood, albeit with 10 more horsepower than before. Coupled with a better-balanced Xtronic CVT and trimming off 82 pounds from the previous model, the 2016 version will achieve 22 miles per gallon in the city, and up to 30 on the highway – great numbers for a full-size powered by a V6. Better usage of high-strength steel provides a vehicle that is more rigid and more confident, while the suspension (damper struts in the front, multilinks in the rear) improves handling and response.

Towing the Line of Luxury

The interior has designed to be simple but more luxurious. Gone are a variety of options packages or stand-alone options – instead, the 2016 Maxima opts for five different trim levels. These aren’t lightweights, either. Even the base S trim will come with a standard navigation system, dual touch screens, push button start, dual-zone automatic climate control and power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats. These are options that aren’t even standard on many vehicles touting the “luxury” tag, but are on all versions of the 2016 Maxima.

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Moving up in trim levels, the Maxima receives leather upholstery and heated seats at the SV level, along with front and rear parking sensors. The SL will get an 11-speaker Bose stereo and a dual-panel sunroof, along with a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot detection. The SR gets sport tuning and unique interior upholstery and trim, for a sporty feel. At the top of the line-up is the Platinum, with driver memory, Nissan’s Around View Monitor, mahogany finish accents, and a driver-drowsiness monitor.

High Expectations

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The redesigned 2016 Maxima brings a level of excitement that is well beyond what is expected from a non-luxury full-size sedan. In fact, due to early indications from dealers and prospective customers, Nissan has already increased their production schedule 8% for the year. That’s a huge vote of confidence considering it’ll still be another month before the first Maxima is expected to be available to the public.

So keep your eyes open for the first Maxima models to arrive at Naples Nissan. The cars are destined to be a hit in the Fort Myers and Cape Coral communities, and there’s no better place to take them out for a test drive than from Naples Nissan. Our sales staff ranks among the best from Marco Island to Tampa, and will be happy to walk you through all the new features of the Maxima. Our finance department will help you work out any loan or lease details, and our service department will be here for the life of your car.