As a consumer, I've never considered buying a Nissan Maxima. It just hasn't been on my car radar. After test-driving a 2009 Maxima for a week, it's now on my radar. In fact, I give it the maximum A-plus Mommy-rating. It's a thoroughly enjoyable car to drive, and it had enough comfort and luxury appointments to make me look forward to getting into it each day of the test drive.

The Nissan folks refer to the Maxima as a four-door sports car, and I'd have to agree. Unlike other sedans, the Maxima isn't plain-looking. Its funky headlights reminded me of the Nissan 370Z, which I adored when I reviewed it, and it gave the front end a pseudo-Volvo look.

The Maxima's spunky sport tuning made it fun to drive. Its V-6 engine is amazingly quick, but I always felt in control. The only downside to the V-6 engine is it needs premium gas.

During my time with the Maxima, I drove through one of my favorite neighborhoods that's known for its gorgeous horse farms and narrow dirt roads. The Maxima handled those roads well despite the huge potholes and rough terrain.

Between the Maxima's sporty look and fun-to-drive V-6, you're looking at one fine sedan.

• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety