Powering all Maximas is Nissan's wonderful 3.0-liter aluminum V6, which generates a healthy 190 hp and gives the Maxima a power-to-weight ratio that's within ounces of the Mustang GT. Not many family sedans can boast that. In fact, not many vehicles in this class even offer five-speed manual anymore. Although a manual transmission will always produce better performance, the electronically-controlled four-speed automatic produces surprisingly brisk acceleration, and we were impressed with its flexibility and smooth operation.
The Maximas ride on front struts and Nissan's clever Multi-Link Beam suspension at the rear. This not-quite-independent setup may give up a tiny bit of performance in absolute handling, but it more than makes up for it in packagability, a trait that pays off in increased trunk and rear seat space.
In the GLE, the suspension setup is biased slightly more towards comfort than handling, yet still manages an overall feeling of athleticism. The Maxima GLE is fun to drive and handles uneven pavement with aplomb, but it won't put as big a grin on your face as the SE which has bigger tires, tighter springs, shocks and front struts. On the other hand, the SE's ride quality is distinctly stiffer.
Like most front-drive cars, the Maxima is subject to understeer--the tendency for the front end to travel straight ahead--when it's pushed hard into a corner. But this trait will only be apparent at high speeds, and it's easily corrected by simply slowing down. No drama, and no surprises.
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