Reviews
2002 Nissan Maxima
Continued from Page 1
2002 Nissan Maxima Dashboard
"Titanium" gauges with chronometer styling help update the interior. "Luxury" cloth and leather upholstery are both available.

Refined in demeanor and civilized in behavior, the 2002 Maxima stands tall in the performance department, courtesy of its additional horsepower. Acceleration is energetic and satisfying, whether taking off from a standstill or when passing and merging. Automatic-transmission shifts could be better when pushing away from a stoplight—the unit sometimes tends to shift a little too soon to yield peak performance. On twisting narrow roads, the SE with the automatic exhibited control that can best be described as masterful. Responding swiftly to every movement of the steering wheel, the SE proved to be sure-footed and precise in its maneuvers. Apart from a touch of tire noise, the Maxima SE runs and rides quietly.


The ride also feels carefully controlled, though the SE's somewhat stiff suspension is less absorbent than some comparable sedans. Assaulting major bumps, in fact, can produce a worrisome jolt at times. Rolling down a smooth expressway, the Maxima feels just fine. When the going gets rougher, though, the SE model feels as if it's flexing its muscles in readiness. Shoppers who savor a genteel driving experience might prefer to try out a GLX or GLE Maxima instead. In SE trim, at least, the Maxima does not appear particularly posh inside, though it has plenty of comforts and conveniences. It's more of a get-down-to-business machine, which is precisely what its typical buyers are likely to prefer.

2002 Nissan Maxima GPS
Nissan's "Birdview" 3-D navigation system is a $1,999 option.

Only five percent of Maximas sold are expected to be the base GLX edition. (That spot will be filled, at least partially, by the six-cylinder Altima.) Sporty SE sedans should account for about 58 percent of sales, and the remainder will be the nicely equipped GLE. About 15 percent of 2002 Maximas will be built with manual shift. (www.nissandriven.com)


Copyright autoMedia.com 2000-2009



 



Related Articles
2002 Toyota Avalon XLS
2002 Lexus IS 300 L-Tuned Limited Edition
2002 Honda Civic Si
2002 Cadillac DeVille DTS
2002 Volkswagen Passat W8 Sedan


autoMedia Car Blog
Pricing: 2010 Nissan Cube
Nissan has nudged up the pricing on the high trim levels of its iconic Cube, while adding new features for 2010. The base Cube remains at $13,990, but ... more...

Less Than 200 Customers Want Money Back From GM
When General Motors first introduced its 60-day Money Back Guarantee, it seemed a bold attempt to assure buyers that its products will satisfy. It als ... more...

Pricing: 2010 Acura ZDX
Since the 2010 Acura ZDX was unveiled, there has been debate over what it is. Based on a platform shared with the MDX SUV, the ZDX looks like a cross ... more...


Forum Highlights
Re: Aluminum wheels and a flat tire
I am sure you have your tire changed by now, but this is a common problem when using aluminum wheels.  Once you realize you have a problem, hitti ... more...

Re: Chevy 3.8L Engine cutout
 I would call it in intermediate job.  You will need some special tools to do it, but if you have some experience doing repairs, and not jus ... more...

Re: The correct Voltage/Amps for Horn??
I'm not sure I have ever seen an actual horn go bad.  When they do stop working, it is usually an electrical issue.  You want to make sure i ... more...


Car Buying Guide

QUICK SEARCH:


Specs, prices, photos & more
SEARCH BY BODY STYLE:
FREE New Car Price Quote
Get the best price - it's easy!
Zip Code

Used Car Buying Guide


2000-2009 autoMedia.com Inc. All Rights Reserved.