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:

    Preventing the Intelligent Key from being left in the vehicle
    If you lock all doors using the power door lock switch with the Intelligent Key in the vehicle, all of the doors unlock immediately and the buzzer will warn you when the door is closed. ...

    Compact disc (CD) player operation
    If the radio is already operating, it automatically turns off and the compact disc begins to play. CD button: When the CD button is pressed with the system off and the compact disc loaded, the s ...

    Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System without Navigation System (if so equipped)
    WARNING ● Use a phone after stopping your vehicle in a safe location. If you have to use a phone while driving, exercise extreme caution at all times so full attention may be given to vehic ...