The Maxima was redesigned for 2009, and I noticed quite a few design elements that appear to have been pulled from the Infiniti line. From the outside, the hood looks bowed toward the center and flares up a bit on the outer edges; I've noticed the same molding on Infinitis. As you buckle in and look over the hood you notice these large, sculpted bulges - muscular, really - which add to the sporty ambience of this not-so-ordinary sedan.

Likewise, the Maxima's profile is accented with chrome door handles and chrome trim around the windows. I like chrome for the added sparkle it delivers. A girl needs to feel glamorous, and you'd be surprised how quickly a little chrome can brighten the day.

All too often, a car's rear end gets short-changed on design and style. This isn't the case with the Maxima. Dual exhaust pipes, a sharply clipped booty, a spoiler and - of course - a little more chrome work tie the entire car together perfectly; there are no loose ends.

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Great

Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove On): Groove On