The 2013 Nissan Maxima’s new SV Value Package includes a 9-speaker Bose audio system, SiriusXM Satellite radio (subscription is sold separately), heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and heated exterior side mirrors. Maxima’s revised Sport Package includes a 7-inch color monitor, climate controlled driver’s seat, and USB connectivity. Other than the new SV Value Package and the revamped Sport Package, Maxima is essentially unchanged from the 2012 model year. Maxima is sold in two versions: the 3.5 S and the 3.5 SV.

Powering the 109.3-inch wheelbase Maxima is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 261 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine mates to the Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) that provides manual and sport modes. The test driven Maxima kicked up the fun factor with its 15.2:1 steering ratio; it’s the quickest of any Nissan sedan. Maxima’s sport-oriented handling adds to the driving enjoyment. The driver’s 8- way power adjust seat provides a manual thigh support extension, a nice feature for a long- legged driver. Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV’s MSRP is $35,080. The four-door’s estimated mpg is 19 city and 26 highway.