2000 Nissan Maxima

By Bob Storck

Nissan has probably the best V6 on the market. In different versions it powered the 300ZX turbo and the Pathfinder sport-ute. Even Ford uses it in their joint venture Mercury Villager/Nissan Quest van project.

In this new configuration, the all-aluminum engine puts out 222 smooth horsepower, which places it at the top of the segment. There was design collaboration between the Japanese designers and American style studios. The styling has lost some of its edge, but that never seems to have hurt in this segment.

There is more interior room and better handling compared with previous models, and they were already the largest and best handling of the mainstream competition. There is excellent head and legroom, especially in the rear. Maxima is distinguished by the black/white, white/black reversible gauges that change appearance at night. The luxury GLE offers wood trim and leather.

The Maxima uses a multi-link beam rear suspension that is easier to manufacture - costs are becoming more important than sophistication.

For a complete review, read: 2000 Nissan Maxima by Bob Storck.