Safety

The Maxima failed to impress me when it came to its Latch connectors and child-safety-seat fit. The backseat has bolsters that interfered with the fit of my sons' booster seats. The result? The booster seats sat slightly crooked. Sounds safe, doesn't it? The Latch connecters were difficult to access, so it looks like some kid-friendly renovations are in order in the Maxima.

The Maxima has all the standard safety features we look for, including side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for both rows of seats, antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system.

I also like that the emergency trunk release handle is easily visible in the trunk. It made me feel secure knowing it's in there in case I ever find myself stuck in the trunk for whatever reason. I should really watch less "Law and Order."

FAMILY LIFESTAGE

In Diapers: There's plenty of room for a rear-facing infant-safety seat.

In School: My sons' booster seats didn't fit well in the backseat because of the bolsters.

Teens: This is a distinctive-looking sedan that any teen would happily drive.

    See also:

    Console light (if so equipped)
    The console light will turn on whenever the parking lights or headlights are illuminated. The console light brightness can be adjusted with the instrument brightness control. ...

    Difference between predicted and actual distances
    The distance guide line and the vehicle width guide line on the front and the rear view should be used as a reference only when the vehicle is on a level, paved surface. The distance viewed on ...

    Booster seats
    Precautions on booster seats If a booster seat and seat belt are not used properly, the risk of a child being injured in a sudden stop or collision greatly increases. – Make sure the shoul ...