2021 Nissan Maxima

Pros: Delivers an extra dose of style and performance while maintaining mainstream 4-door-sedan practicality and affordability; classy interior trimmings; good selection of trim levels and available features

Cons: Rear-seat space and trunk room are stingy compared to many midsize-sedan competitors; stiff ride with SR model’s sport suspension and 19-inch wheels; non-SR models aren’t quite as agile as the “4-door sports car” moniker promises

CG Says: The 2021 Nissan Maxima drops its S and SL trims and adds a 40th Anniversary Edition with unique color scheme and trim. Nissan’s “4-door sports car” midsize sedan was redesigned from the ground up for 2016 and refreshed for 2018.

The Maxima has dramatic styling, a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 300 horsepower, and a host of safety and technology features. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the lone gearbox available, but it’s a performance-oriented “XTronic” unit with Nissan’s D-Step shifting logic for a more-responsive feel.

Among the Maxima’s features are remote engine start, a Drive Mode Selector that offers Normal and Sport settings, and a standard navigation system.

Available safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, front knee airbags, rear side airbags, and Rear Door Alert, which warns drivers to check the rear seats for children or pets when exiting.

The Maxima’s aggressive styling, 300-hp V6, and various tech features help it stand out from all the Altimas, Honda Accords, and Toyota Camrys. However, it’s not as spacious inside as the top midsize sedans, and it’s not as prestigious or athletic as luxury-brand sport sedans. Nonetheless, it’s a fine choice for buyers who are looking for a bit more spice in their mainstream midsize sedan, but don’t want to step up to the higher costs of a luxury-brand sport sedan.