I know this is the dumbest question ever asked, and it is why I have the read the FAQ in my profile to the left, but I have to ask. I know for the Honda models, the order was DX, LX, EX. How is it for our Maximas? I have the SE and wondered if that was the top model. Thanks!

 

I think technically Nissan would rank them...

GXE / SE / GLE

GXE - Base model, no frills
SE - Sports Edition
GLE - Grand Luxury Edition

But in my mind SE is the top of the line!

 

I believe the GXE is no more with Nissan. Now its S, SL, SE, SE-R (Sentra, Altima). But basically the same as GXE, SE, GLE and D-Nyce explained it well but, the GXE wasnt exactly no frills. The former XE models were no frills.

The Nissan 'SE' trim level is not that special, unlike the AE (Anniversary Edition). Only with the 3G Maxima did the SE mean something particularly different (i.e.: 190hp vs 160hp) IMO, Nissan should have dumped trim labels with the 5.5G Maxima, seeing as the SE and GLE could be similarly equipped (sans 6MT) and the GXE was almost non-existent. $.02

 

SE = Sport Edition

 

so does the sport edition have any better options then a normal maxima? Does it have better handeling? What is the difference?

 

different sportier suspension and at least on the 2k model... 17 inch rims on SE, 16 on GLE

 

2002-2003 came with the six speed manual transmission option

 

Stiffer, sportier, better handling suspension. 16" rims with optional 17" rims. Smoked ring around the tail lights. Can't think of anything else.

 

Actually I was told SE = Standard Edition, for insurance reasons. But obviously it alludes to a Sport Edition.

SE has manual option (5-speed for 2k and 2k1, 6-speed for 2k2 and 2k3), 17" wheels (different than the GLE ones), body colored door handles (chrome on other editions), and in Nissan's exact words: "SE Sport-tuned suspension - firmer front and rear springs, front struts and rear shock absorbers; larger front stabilizer bar."

 

GXE also has a 5 speed option

 

Titanium gauges, Rear Spoiler, 17" alloys, and Sport Tuned suspension are all Standard on the SE.

Back in the 3G days, you had SE and GXE. Where the GXE was both the basic/luxury model. The early 3rd gens had Sport tuned suspension, Moonroof, Rear Spoiler, Sawblade style 15" alloys, 4 wheel disc brakes, Sport Steering Wheel, Black window trim, and body colored grille and door handles, Smoked tail lights and Bose stereo all Standard on the SE

Moonroof became an option on the SE in 93, the Bose became an option in 97, no difference in tail lights until 00.