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:

    Using the system
    The NISSAN Voice Recognition system allows hands-free operation of the Bluetooth Phone System. If the vehicle is in motion, some commands may not be available so full attention may be given to ve ...

    Intelligent Key door buzzer (if so equipped)
    When the chime or buzzer sounds from inside and outside the vehicle, check for the following: - The ignition switch is turned to the LOCK position. - The intelligent Key is not left inside the ...

    Radio
    Place the ignition switch in the ACC or ON position and press the POWER/VOLUME control knob to turn the radio on. If you listen to the radio with the engine not running, the ignition switch sh ...