The Maxima is one of Nissan?s higher-end models: a front-wheel-drive mid-range sedan that?s almost a luxury car,almost a sports car. The Maxima was extensively redesigned for the 2009 model year,and the 2010 model is basically a carryover. The 2010 Maxima is highly customizable,with a long list of packaged or stand-alone options.

The 2010 Nissan Maxima comes in two trims: 3.5 S and 3.5 SV. The Maxima S trim features 18-inch wheels,cloth upholstery,sunroof,dual-zone automatic climate control,automatic headlights,cruise control,keyless entry and ignition,leather-wrapped steering wheel,Bluetooth connectivity,and a sound system. The Maxima SV trim includes leather upholstery,9-speaker Bose sound system that includes satellite radio,fog lights,upgraded driver?s seat,and other luxury touches. The SV trim also includes several option packages,including features such as heated front seats and steering wheel,voice-activated navigation system,streaming Bluetooth audio,color monitor,rear-seat audio and climate controls,and a ventilated driver?s seat. Some of those options are available on the S trim as well. The Sport package adds 19-inch wheels with summer tires,sport suspension,rear spoiler,and a special metallic trim.

The Maxima?s trunk provides 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space,according to Nissan.

The standard power plant in the 2010 Nissan Maxima is a 290-horsepower,3.5-liter V-6 engine and a continuously variable transmission. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual override are optional with the SV trim. According to the EPA,the 2010 Nissan Maxima delivers 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Standard safety features on the 2010 Nissan Maxima include anti-lock disc brakes,stability control,traction control,active front head restraints,front side air bags,and side curtain air bags. The SV trim offers an optional rearview camera.

Starting MSRP for the 2010 Nissan Maxima was $30,690.