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The Nissan Maxima has steadily gotten better over the past few years. It’s a full-size sedan that’s been around for decades, and while the Maxima isn’t the top performer of its class, it does its job well. Base models start at $37,240 and go all the way up to $45,000, so it’s time to see what all that money gets you. You’ll find your options are limited to the trim level you choose, but it’s not really a problem. Here’s what a fully loaded 2022 Nissan Maxima has to offer.

One engine and drivetrain for the 2022 Nissan Maxima

2022 Nissan Maxima
2022 Nissan Maxima | Nissan

The 2022 Nissan Maxima’s power is all there. It only has one powertrain made of a 3.5-liter V6 mated to a CVT transmission, sending 300 horsepower to the front wheels. It’s the only option for customers, but 300 horsepower is plenty for a full-size sedan in this price range. It hits 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds and hits the quarter-mile in 14. The Maxima also manages to squeeze out 30 mpg in the best of circumstances. Nothing about the drivetrain is controversial, and that’s not always a bad thing.

Almost, but not quite a sports car

The 2022 Nissan Maxima continues the model’s run of subpar feedback. As per Car and Driver, the steering response lacks excitement, which has plagued the Maxima since before the 2017 model year. That said, the V6 moves the car’s 3,665-pound curb weight with relative ease and easily outhandles its rivals in terms of suspension response. Nissan tried to make it a sports car, and while it was a failed experiment, the result is a sedan that can take care of itself around a mountain pass. As is the case with the engine and transmission, there’s, unfortunately, no way to upgrade any suspension aspects of the Maxima.

The fully loaded 2022 Nissan Maxima

2022 Nissan Maxima Platinum rear end
2022 Nissan Maxima Platinum rear end | Nissan

The most expensive 2022 Nissan Maxima is the 40th Anniversary Edition. The suspension, engine, and transmission can’t change. Still, the Anniversary Edition has about every safety feature in the book, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and safety shield 360. It also has all the usual refinements, including a moonroof, Bluetooth, leather seats, and heated outside mirrors. Customers also get intelligent cruise control and driver alertness, as well as key fob remote start. All of that costs about $45,000.

Nissan makes buying the 2022 Maxima simple

Nissan Maxima headlights
Nissan Maxima headlights | Nissan

If you opt for the most expensive Nissan Maxima 40th Anniversary Edition, then don’t expect much customization apart from accessories. It even comes with just one color scheme for the exterior and interior. If you want paint choices, then go with the Maxima Platinum, starting at $42,550. In fact, no matter which trim level you pick, you won’t have many choices, as each trim level is pretty much set in stone.

It certainly keeps the buying process simple. However, customers looking to be more deliberate and particular with what their car has may opt for a more comprehensive solution. The 2022 Nissan Maxima is for customers walking into a dealership and walking out with a set of keys and a full-size sedan, with as little stress as possible.

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