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Archive for March 7th, 2010

The 2009 Maxima Nissans New D Platform

The 2009 Maxima is built on Nissans new D platform that provides responsive handling and virtually eliminates the torque steer associated with high horsepower front wheel drive vehicles. The first production model of the allnew 2009 Nissan Maxima rolled off the assembly line at Nissan North Americas Smyrna Tenn. manufacturing plant signaling the return of Nissans flagship to its roots as a commanding 4door sports car. The car parts are sporting a bold new look as well as a more powerful V6 under the hood the Job 1? 2009 Maxima was driven off the assembly line during a midday celebration attended by Nissan employees and executives.

The Maxima is an important car for Smyrna and for Nissan said Greg Daniels senior vice president U.S. Manufacturing Nissan North America. Its our responsibility to build a high quality vehicle each and every time. Our customers deserve it and expect no less.

Changes were made in three key areas of the seventh generation Maxima. Car parts exterior took on a more aggressive look that imparts a strong premium presence. A super cockpit feel was integrated creating an interior that combines a driver orientation with high quality roominess and userfriendly technology. Classleading performance was added that enhanced what previous generation owners called Maximaness.

We set out to create one of the best performing front engine frontwheel drive sedans in the world said Al Castignetti vice president and general manager Nissan division Nissan North America. The Maxima delivers on all levels offering the value quality and exhilarating performance consumers have come to expect from Nissan.

It boasts a new Xtronic CVT Continuously Variable Transmission with manual mode tuned specifically for Maximas sporty driving character. For drivers seeking the utmost in vehicle control a new Ds mode drive sport has been added to the CVT for 2009. Ds mode is an electronic control logic that enhances sport driving through increased acceleration feel with higher engine revolutions automatic engine braking and maintaining engine speed during cornering.

The Maximas 3.5 liter DOHC 24valve VQ series V6 engine is now rated at 290 horsepower and 261 lbft of torque increases of 35 horsepower and 9 lbft of torque over the 2008 Maxima. All of the engines for the vehicle are produced at Nissans Decherd Tenn. Powertrain Assembly Plant

Fuel economy is estimated at 19 miles per gallon city 26 miles per gallon highway similar to that of the 2008 Maxima despite the additional horsepower.

The allnew 2009 Maxima will be offered as two wellequipped models Maxima 3.5 S and Maxima 3.5 SV and is scheduled to arrive at Nissan dealers nationwide in early summer 2008. Pricing will be released closer to start of sale.

About the writer:  Anthony Fontanelle is a 35yearold automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.