2004 Nissan Maxima SE review from North America

So far, the only issue I have with this car is the middle console cup holder. It has a pressure opening mechanism, which, on cold mornings (when it is needed most) will not open when pressed.

This is my third Maxima and, by far, my favorite. This year's new, sportier looks match the sporty, luxurious feel and drive my previous Maximas have had. Along with a powerful, rocket of a V6, 265hp engine, the 2004 Maxima comes stock with 18 inch wheels that add sports car looks to a family size sedan.

To add some luxury to the fun, I opted for the leather interior, complete with seat warmers that work like a charm. The in-dash, 6 CD, 8 speaker Bose stereo system sounds crisper and cleaner than that in the Lincoln LS I was considering. In fact, my 2004 Maxima came with all the luxuries of the LS for $12K less than the '04 LS. However, the LS did offer a V8 model that is not an option with the Maxima.

Even with not being completely broken in yet, I'm getting 22 miles per gallon around town; better than the average for the 255hp 3.5 V6 Altima I was also considering. There was a $3k price difference between the two, but the Maxima has richer leather, Tektronix shifting, electronic telescoping steering with two preset positions, and xenon headlights. None of which were in the Altima I tested.

I have always contended that the Maxima is the most under-rated, overlooked vehicle on the market. This 2004 should get it the positive attention it deserves.