The 2009 Nissan Maxima Sv aimed to bridge the gap between a family sedan and a sports car. Sharing its platform with the Altima, the Maxima faced the challenge of distinguishing itself. This review delves into the Maxima’s performance, handling, interior, and overall value proposition to determine if it truly lives up to its “four-door sports car” moniker.
Exterior Styling and Interior Design
While mechanically similar to the Altima, the 2009 Nissan Maxima SV boasts a distinct exterior. Its design cues, borrowed from the 370Z and GT-R, give it a more aggressive and sculpted appearance. The bold lines and bulging fenders create a striking visual presence.
Stepping inside, the Maxima SV presents a mixed bag. While the leather seats with contrasting stitching exude a premium feel, the dashboard and door panels are covered in a less impressive, rubbery material.
The electroluminescent instrument cluster is modern and stylish, but the dated orange dot-matrix display for the radio and AC controls feels out of place in a car aspiring to be a premium sports sedan. Some interior trim pieces also felt loose, raising concerns about build quality.
Engine Performance and CVT Transmission
Under the hood, the 2009 Maxima SV houses Nissan’s renowned 3.5L VQ V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower. This engine delivers smooth and responsive acceleration, readily reaching its rev limiter. However, the choice of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) raises questions.
While Nissan’s CVT is considered one of the best in the industry, it lacks the engaging feel of a traditional automatic or manual transmission, particularly in a car with sporting intentions. The “manual” mode with paddle shifters offers limited improvement, feeling artificial and disconnected.
Handling and Ride Quality
Despite the CVT, the 2009 Nissan Maxima SV shines in its handling. The front-wheel-drive system exhibits minimal torque steer, and the well-tuned suspension provides impressive cornering capabilities.
However, the optional sport package, with its 19-inch wheels and stiffer suspension, significantly compromises ride comfort. The ride becomes noticeably harsher, accompanied by increased road noise. For daily driving, the standard suspension offers a more balanced compromise between handling and comfort.
Conclusion: Is the 2009 Nissan Maxima SV Worth It?
The 2009 Nissan Maxima SV offers a compelling blend of sporty handling and a powerful engine. However, its CVT and questionable interior quality detract from the overall experience. While it excels in performance, the price premium over the Altima may be difficult to justify for some buyers. The decision ultimately depends on individual priorities. If exhilarating handling is paramount, the Maxima SV deserves consideration. But for those seeking a more comfortable and refined daily driver, other options might be more suitable.
