Features & Pricing

Starting at $30,690 for a 2010 Maxima and increasing to $30,810 for a 2011, the Maxima falls right between the Taurus ($25,170 to start, similarly equipped for $27,370) and Avalon ($32,445 to start) and comes well-equipped in the base version, with 18-inch alloy wheels, a moonroof, push-button ignition, Bluetooth, dual-zone automatic climate control and power front seats.

I tested a $33,410 Maxima SV (it's $33,530 for 2011), which stands for Special Value. It adds the leather seats, a Bose stereo and a few other creature comforts.

There's a Sport Package for an additional $2,030, adding 19-inch wheels, a spoiler, paddle shifters, xenon headlights and a dark chrome grille.

Getting the top-of-the-line Premium Package, which raises the Maxima's price to $36,640, adds a dual-panel moonroof, a power sunshade for the rear window, a 7-inch display screen, USB connectivity and a backup camera.

My test car had the $700 Monitor Package, which adds the screen and tech features from the Premium Package. It also had a $400 Cold Package that not only added heated front seats but also a heated steering wheel, which is unusual for a car in this price range.

I didn't have the navigation system, but it's available as part of a $1,850 Technology Package.

    See also:

    CD, DVD or USB with Compressed Audio Files (models with Navigation System)
    The file types supported by this system are MP3, WMA, AAC/M4A and ATRAC3. Explanation of terms: - MP3 MP3 is short for Moving Pictures Experts Group Audio Layer 3. MP3 is the most well known c ...

    Exhaust gas (carbon monoxide)
    WARNING ● Do not breathe exhaust gases; they contain colorless and odorless carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is dangerous. It can cause unconsciousness or death. ● If you suspect tha ...

    Vents
    Adjust air flow direction for the driver’s and passenger’s side 1 , and center 2 ventilators by moving the ventilator slide and/or ventilator assemblies. Open or close the ventilators 1 by ...