2009 maxima test drive
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 42
From: Lafayette, LA
Thanks. I had been looking to purchase a new car for some time now, so it wasn't too much of an impulse buy. After driving one Saturday I knew that's the car I wanted and my nearly 13 year old car was giving me some trouble so it was time to do something. It was either the Maxima or something else. I hope it's in on time cause I'm going to some seminars for work in Champaign, Illinois for a week starting on the 28th.
Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 45
From: Greenville, SC
light, I live about 100 miles north of where you are, heat is definately an issue. I am trying to decide between the Silver and Winter Frost... Charcoal interior a must. I think the lighter exterior with the darker interior will be a nice contrast. Premium package for me as well. Just trying to decide which color the dual roof is going to look better on.... decisions, decisions... I am choosing the premium package because I don't drive a car that hard, I drove the SV without sport and it will do all I want and I am sure more. I trying to pretend I have grown up (at middle age) and am giving up the spoiler, ha ha....
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 42
From: Lafayette, LA
Also another review point I can make. Since the dealer gave me a 2008 Maxima to drive until mine comes in, I have noticed a couple things. "Cockpit" not quite as tight and comfy as the 2009. Also, when you accelerate the engine has much more of a whiny sound to it. The 2009 has a bit more of a lower-pitched roaring sound when you first take off. Must be the sound technology they put in to get more of a regular engine sound. I think that's pretty cool. I'll be sure to post some pics when I get my car.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 122
From: Dallas
Hurricane434, congrats on the purchase of your new Max. I too will be looking to upgrade into a new Max towards the end of the year. I am surprised that the dealer gave you such a good deal on a new Max. I am currently driving a 4th gen (99) and am hoping to sell it, rather than trade it in, but you got a fair value for yours. Anyway congrats once again, and can't wait to see some pics. 
Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 172
Congrats Hurricane434,
I gonna try for late January because I forgot I want to go on vacation to Vegas in Sept and LA in October and IF I had put the money down now on a Winter Frost with the frost interior, the plans would be shot and I would lose some friends in the process!!
It's eating me up inside that I can't get one now, but I will soon!!!
I gonna try for late January because I forgot I want to go on vacation to Vegas in Sept and LA in October and IF I had put the money down now on a Winter Frost with the frost interior, the plans would be shot and I would lose some friends in the process!!
It's eating me up inside that I can't get one now, but I will soon!!!
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 88
question:
my company just dropped on me another 30k miles to drive on the company car...i was pretty pissed b/c they are taking company cars away from us and giving us monthly allowances from here on out, but b/c i put up the stink originally, they want me to run the miles off of another guys car...a Ford Escape nonetheless....so my camry will be gone soon....
anyway, i digress....now i am hoping this turns out to be a positive, b/c i am hoping by the time i put 30k more on the Ford the price of the maxima's will be a tad more realistic for me. i was hoping to get a car (before the news was dropped on me) for around $400/month so i could actually pocket some cash each month...and use for maint. and tires and oil changes and the like.....with the allowance, everything including insurance is on us. i am hoping i can get a SV base with maybe sunroof and Bose (i think both are standard on SV) for like $27,500 in about 6months.....no way? or maybe? or at least $29,999?
my company just dropped on me another 30k miles to drive on the company car...i was pretty pissed b/c they are taking company cars away from us and giving us monthly allowances from here on out, but b/c i put up the stink originally, they want me to run the miles off of another guys car...a Ford Escape nonetheless....so my camry will be gone soon....
anyway, i digress....now i am hoping this turns out to be a positive, b/c i am hoping by the time i put 30k more on the Ford the price of the maxima's will be a tad more realistic for me. i was hoping to get a car (before the news was dropped on me) for around $400/month so i could actually pocket some cash each month...and use for maint. and tires and oil changes and the like.....with the allowance, everything including insurance is on us. i am hoping i can get a SV base with maybe sunroof and Bose (i think both are standard on SV) for like $27,500 in about 6months.....no way? or maybe? or at least $29,999?
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
Minarets - Yes, the sunroof and digital Bose are standard on the SV (in fact, the sunroof is standard on the very base S).
Also on the SV, but not the S, are fog lights, outside mirror LED turn signals, leather seats, HomeLink transceiver, digital compass, driver's seat thigh support extension and power lumbar support. The SV is a decently-equipped vehicle.
The invoice on the SV is $29,301, and the destination charge is $660, for a total of $29,961. In six months, you might find this vehicle for very near $30,000 if you find a dealer willing to settle for the over $500 holdback as his profit.
Of course, if Nissan throws any kind of special kickback on the Maxima (possible, considering these tough economic times), you will easily do better.
4themax - Yes, we have the same problem. Tough choice. The dual paneled sunroof is most dramatic with either the radiant silver or winter frost. The darker the car color, the less noticable the double paneled roof.
Hurricane, considering your schedule, we have to hope your car arrives on time. Once your trip is over, and things settle down, we certainly hope to receive continuing input from you regarding your car's performance.
drakutis - Be brave, my friend; your time will come.
Also on the SV, but not the S, are fog lights, outside mirror LED turn signals, leather seats, HomeLink transceiver, digital compass, driver's seat thigh support extension and power lumbar support. The SV is a decently-equipped vehicle.
The invoice on the SV is $29,301, and the destination charge is $660, for a total of $29,961. In six months, you might find this vehicle for very near $30,000 if you find a dealer willing to settle for the over $500 holdback as his profit.
Of course, if Nissan throws any kind of special kickback on the Maxima (possible, considering these tough economic times), you will easily do better.
4themax - Yes, we have the same problem. Tough choice. The dual paneled sunroof is most dramatic with either the radiant silver or winter frost. The darker the car color, the less noticable the double paneled roof.
Hurricane, considering your schedule, we have to hope your car arrives on time. Once your trip is over, and things settle down, we certainly hope to receive continuing input from you regarding your car's performance.
drakutis - Be brave, my friend; your time will come.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 21
From: High Point, NC
Fellas,
Just got back from my 1st official test drive of the 7th Gen Max. All I have to say is...WOW!!! Push the throttle and that thing just goes..no jerking, no downshifting, nothing...just straight acceleration! And when you do step on the gas, the dual exhaust just Humms. Stealership says Nissan Corp. has a new lease deal out on the Maxima S...$339/mo w/ $2999 down if anybody's interested.
Just got back from my 1st official test drive of the 7th Gen Max. All I have to say is...WOW!!! Push the throttle and that thing just goes..no jerking, no downshifting, nothing...just straight acceleration! And when you do step on the gas, the dual exhaust just Humms. Stealership says Nissan Corp. has a new lease deal out on the Maxima S...$339/mo w/ $2999 down if anybody's interested.
Last edited by MajesticMax02; Jul 16, 2008 at 06:59 PM.
Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 172
Minarets - Yes, the sunroof and digital Bose are standard on the SV (in fact, the sunroof is standard on the very base S).
Also on the SV, but not the S, are fog lights, outside mirror LED turn signals, leather seats, HomeLink transceiver, digital compass, driver's seat thigh support extension and power lumbar support. The SV is a decently-equipped vehicle.
The invoice on the SV is $29,301, and the destination charge is $660, for a total of $29,961. In six months, you might find this vehicle for very near $30,000 if you find a dealer willing to settle for the over $500 holdback as his profit.
Of course, if Nissan throws any kind of special kickback on the Maxima (possible, considering these tough economic times), you will easily do better.
4themax - Yes, we have the same problem. Tough choice. The dual paneled sunroof is most dramatic with either the radiant silver or winter frost. The darker the car color, the less noticable the double paneled roof.
Hurricane, considering your schedule, we have to hope your car arrives on time. Once your trip is over, and things settle down, we certainly hope to receive continuing input from you regarding your car's performance.
drakutis - Be brave, my friend; your time will come.
Also on the SV, but not the S, are fog lights, outside mirror LED turn signals, leather seats, HomeLink transceiver, digital compass, driver's seat thigh support extension and power lumbar support. The SV is a decently-equipped vehicle.
The invoice on the SV is $29,301, and the destination charge is $660, for a total of $29,961. In six months, you might find this vehicle for very near $30,000 if you find a dealer willing to settle for the over $500 holdback as his profit.
Of course, if Nissan throws any kind of special kickback on the Maxima (possible, considering these tough economic times), you will easily do better.
4themax - Yes, we have the same problem. Tough choice. The dual paneled sunroof is most dramatic with either the radiant silver or winter frost. The darker the car color, the less noticable the double paneled roof.
Hurricane, considering your schedule, we have to hope your car arrives on time. Once your trip is over, and things settle down, we certainly hope to receive continuing input from you regarding your car's performance.
drakutis - Be brave, my friend; your time will come.
Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 45
From: Greenville, SC
drakutis - I am expeciting the winter frost / charcoal with premium and tech to arrive sometime within the next 2 weeks at my local dealer... someting tells me when I see it I will own it.... I would love to see the silver with premium but probably won't be able to wait once I see the winter frost... Thanks for your input!
MajesticMax02 - I can't wait to own my 3rd Max, all 290 horses with all the bells and whistles! I will miss my 02SE but sounds like from all the reviews on here, including yours and having driven it myself, it's going to be a great choice.
MajesticMax02 - I can't wait to own my 3rd Max, all 290 horses with all the bells and whistles! I will miss my 02SE but sounds like from all the reviews on here, including yours and having driven it myself, it's going to be a great choice.
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 21
From: High Point, NC
4themax--
I know it will be a great choice. I understand you said you have an 02 SE. What color? Did you get the 6spd. or auto? I loved my 6spd. until I screwed my knee up.
What pkg. 7th Gen did you test drive? I drove the Precision Gry, SV w/ Bluetooth. It MSRP'd at $33,300. Hopefully, later on down the road I can bargain for somewhere around $30K or less.
I know it will be a great choice. I understand you said you have an 02 SE. What color? Did you get the 6spd. or auto? I loved my 6spd. until I screwed my knee up.
What pkg. 7th Gen did you test drive? I drove the Precision Gry, SV w/ Bluetooth. It MSRP'd at $33,300. Hopefully, later on down the road I can bargain for somewhere around $30K or less.
Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 172
drakutis - I am expeciting the winter frost / charcoal with premium and tech to arrive sometime within the next 2 weeks at my local dealer... someting tells me when I see it I will own it.... I would love to see the silver with premium but probably won't be able to wait once I see the winter frost... Thanks for your input!
MajesticMax02 - I can't wait to own my 3rd Max, all 290 horses with all the bells and whistles! I will miss my 02SE but sounds like from all the reviews on here, including yours and having driven it myself, it's going to be a great choice.
MajesticMax02 - I can't wait to own my 3rd Max, all 290 horses with all the bells and whistles! I will miss my 02SE but sounds like from all the reviews on here, including yours and having driven it myself, it's going to be a great choice.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
I have owned seven silver cars (and lots of other colors), but never white. I think the time has come . . .
I finally went to my dealership and looked at one. It appeared they only had one. They said they sold a white one and the manager had a premium package out for a drive.
But it was fine I came to look at the sports package model anyway and that's the one they had parked right in front of the doors. It was black w/black leather.
I must say the pictures really don't do this car justice. I knew the interior looked a lot better, but my god was it EXTREMELY nice IMO and VERY VERY comfortable. I was amazed at how comfortable it was in the back. It is much nicer than the girl's G35 Coupe and my G35 Sedan. Getting back into the coupe it almost felt cheap compared to the Max. But both G's are '03s and the 05s upgrades are a lot nicer inside.
They wouldn't allow me to test drive it, but if I had the cash I would really consider the car. What I found interesting is the car had a standard moonroof. Am I blind or does Nissan's website not mention anything about a moonroof on the sport package model?
Either way just looking the car over was impressive. It was parked next to a few Zs and it made the Zs look like pansies. The car has a definite presence, a presence of get the **** out of my way.
But the interior just blew me away Nissan really stepped it up on the inside. I wish I was able to test drive I may try another dealer. My position still stands though that a HR motor would have given this car that extra 4DSC moniker.
But it was fine I came to look at the sports package model anyway and that's the one they had parked right in front of the doors. It was black w/black leather.
I must say the pictures really don't do this car justice. I knew the interior looked a lot better, but my god was it EXTREMELY nice IMO and VERY VERY comfortable. I was amazed at how comfortable it was in the back. It is much nicer than the girl's G35 Coupe and my G35 Sedan. Getting back into the coupe it almost felt cheap compared to the Max. But both G's are '03s and the 05s upgrades are a lot nicer inside.
They wouldn't allow me to test drive it, but if I had the cash I would really consider the car. What I found interesting is the car had a standard moonroof. Am I blind or does Nissan's website not mention anything about a moonroof on the sport package model?
Either way just looking the car over was impressive. It was parked next to a few Zs and it made the Zs look like pansies. The car has a definite presence, a presence of get the **** out of my way.
But the interior just blew me away Nissan really stepped it up on the inside. I wish I was able to test drive I may try another dealer. My position still stands though that a HR motor would have given this car that extra 4DSC moniker.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 165
i actually test drove this car as well. Honestly it dosent feel like its worth the 42k i mean yeah leather seats power everything navigation ... pretty fast as well but i mean 42k... id much rather drop another 8 k and get an m3...
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
enik23 - How many cars have you bought? You must realize that, once initial 'new gen' sales slack off, the dealer is not going to get anywhere near $42K for this car. The very nicely equipped (leather, power everything, moonroof, etc) '09 with Sport Package has an MSRP of $34,290 plus $660 Destination Charge. Within a few months, that car can be had for around $32,500 plus destination. That is a far cry from driveout for an M3.
Granted, if you trick the Maxima out with Sport Package plus navi/tech and all the bells and whistles, you will have to negotiate to get the price down around $37K, but this is still a FAR better deal than an M3.
When you move from the Maxima to the M3, you are changing from a roomy, sporty near-luxury family sedan to a purely luxury class vehicle, and will actually have to pay more than $10K more. Not a fair comparison at all.
Granted, if you trick the Maxima out with Sport Package plus navi/tech and all the bells and whistles, you will have to negotiate to get the price down around $37K, but this is still a FAR better deal than an M3.
When you move from the Maxima to the M3, you are changing from a roomy, sporty near-luxury family sedan to a purely luxury class vehicle, and will actually have to pay more than $10K more. Not a fair comparison at all.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 122
From: Dallas
enik23 - How many cars have you bought? You must realize that, once initial 'new gen' sales slack off, the dealer is not going to get anywhere near $42K for this car. The very nicely equipped (leather, power everything, moonroof, etc) '09 with Sport Package has an MSRP of $34,290 plus $660 Destination Charge. Within a few months, that car can be had for around $32,500 plus destination. That is a far cry from driveout for an M3.
Granted, if you trick the Maxima out with Sport Package plus navi/tech and all the bells and whistles, you will have to negotiate to get the price down around $37K, but this is still a FAR better deal than an M3.
When you move from the Maxima to the M3, you are changing from a roomy, sporty near-luxury family sedan to a purely luxury class vehicle, and will actually have to pay more than $10K more. Not a fair comparison at all.
Granted, if you trick the Maxima out with Sport Package plus navi/tech and all the bells and whistles, you will have to negotiate to get the price down around $37K, but this is still a FAR better deal than an M3.
When you move from the Maxima to the M3, you are changing from a roomy, sporty near-luxury family sedan to a purely luxury class vehicle, and will actually have to pay more than $10K more. Not a fair comparison at all.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 26
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
nitro230 and MAXIMAK99 - Thanks for covering my backside. I wasn't sure exactly which options enik23 was talking about, but to have a $42k sticker, that car had to be loaded with everything available.
enik23 is not the first poster to mention $42, and I would like to think that includes the $2,000 'appearance package' most dealers pad onto their little sticker. Of course that is nothing more than a negotiating stick. Probably the last person to actually pay the full MSRP plus the full 'appearance package' for a Maxima (or almost any car) was someone like the son of a mideast shiek who was worth $23 billion. If I were in that position, I probably wouldn't bother to negotiate either.
At any rate, you two and I know the Maxima is an excellent car for the price, and we won't have to pay $42,000 for it, either.
enik23 is not the first poster to mention $42, and I would like to think that includes the $2,000 'appearance package' most dealers pad onto their little sticker. Of course that is nothing more than a negotiating stick. Probably the last person to actually pay the full MSRP plus the full 'appearance package' for a Maxima (or almost any car) was someone like the son of a mideast shiek who was worth $23 billion. If I were in that position, I probably wouldn't bother to negotiate either.
At any rate, you two and I know the Maxima is an excellent car for the price, and we won't have to pay $42,000 for it, either.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 15
Hurricane434 - Way to go! I can'r believe you bit the bullet this quickly. But when you find a dealer that is somewhat ready to deal this early in the game on a new generation Maxima, the temptation can be too great to resist. Considering how new this gen 7 is, your deal sounds rather good.
July 25th, huh? Just ten days! I have ordered a few trucks for my wife in past years, and I remember the excitement we felt as we tracked them from the factory, onto TTX auto racks, and followed the train movements as they moved from Minneapolis to Atlanta. You will probably be checking your dealer's inventory on nissanusa.com from around July 22 on, watching for your Maxima to show up. That will be fun!
Don't be too surprised or disappointed if there is a day or two delay. Sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. One of our trucks was unloaded off the train in Atlanta and sat there seven days until we called the dealer, told them where the truck was, and said it had better be on their lot by the next day. It was.
The dark slate/charcoal combo is most tasteful, and would look right at home in the CEO parking slot in the company parking lot. You will be very happy with this classy and safe choice. Living where things stay way too hot for much of the year, I will be going with either winter frost (white) or radiant silver (a very light shade of silver). Also, being utterly ancient, senile and decrepid, I am going for the Premium package.
I hope you will be able to easily sever emotional ties with your '96. I have trouble saying goodbye to my departing Maximas. I give each one a name soon after I get it, and feel close to them. I even know where my very first Maxima ('85) is, and it is still being driven.
Your first photo shows the fenders standing out from the body as well as any photo I have seen so far. This is what I have been ranting about when I talk about the athletic 'figure-8' or 'Coke bottle' shape. Quite a nice pic!
Congrats on making the move on a very nice car!
July 25th, huh? Just ten days! I have ordered a few trucks for my wife in past years, and I remember the excitement we felt as we tracked them from the factory, onto TTX auto racks, and followed the train movements as they moved from Minneapolis to Atlanta. You will probably be checking your dealer's inventory on nissanusa.com from around July 22 on, watching for your Maxima to show up. That will be fun!
Don't be too surprised or disappointed if there is a day or two delay. Sometimes things don't go exactly as planned. One of our trucks was unloaded off the train in Atlanta and sat there seven days until we called the dealer, told them where the truck was, and said it had better be on their lot by the next day. It was.
The dark slate/charcoal combo is most tasteful, and would look right at home in the CEO parking slot in the company parking lot. You will be very happy with this classy and safe choice. Living where things stay way too hot for much of the year, I will be going with either winter frost (white) or radiant silver (a very light shade of silver). Also, being utterly ancient, senile and decrepid, I am going for the Premium package.
I hope you will be able to easily sever emotional ties with your '96. I have trouble saying goodbye to my departing Maximas. I give each one a name soon after I get it, and feel close to them. I even know where my very first Maxima ('85) is, and it is still being driven.
Your first photo shows the fenders standing out from the body as well as any photo I have seen so far. This is what I have been ranting about when I talk about the athletic 'figure-8' or 'Coke bottle' shape. Quite a nice pic!
Congrats on making the move on a very nice car!
Dean
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 15
Maybe some are marking them way to take advantage of the current limited supply and high demand for 2009 Maximas?
Dean
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 15
excellent choice
Hurricane, excellent choice. You got same as I did except different outside color which is purely cosmetic. You're going to LOVE driving it. I'm sure it will be best car you've owned.
Dean
2009 Maxima SV with sport package
Dean
2009 Maxima SV with sport package
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 42
From: Lafayette, LA
Dean, thanks. Congrats to you as well on getting your new Maxima. I loved my 1996 Maxima SE and I am very excited to begin driving my new and improved 2009 Maxima.
Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 45
From: Greenville, SC
4themax--
I know it will be a great choice. I understand you said you have an 02 SE. What color? Did you get the 6spd. or auto? I loved my 6spd. until I screwed my knee up.
What pkg. 7th Gen did you test drive? I drove the Precision Gry, SV w/ Bluetooth. It MSRP'd at $33,300. Hopefully, later on down the road I can bargain for somewhere around $30K or less.
I know it will be a great choice. I understand you said you have an 02 SE. What color? Did you get the 6spd. or auto? I loved my 6spd. until I screwed my knee up.
What pkg. 7th Gen did you test drive? I drove the Precision Gry, SV w/ Bluetooth. It MSRP'd at $33,300. Hopefully, later on down the road I can bargain for somewhere around $30K or less.
The 09 I drove was precision gray with tech package, no sport or premium. That car will do all I need, anymore and it might get dangerous...! Drove to Atlanta yesterday to see both the WF and the Silver with the premium package sitting side by side and WOW either is a terrific choice. I have had several white cars and have enjoyed them all. On the drive back from ATL saw a car hauler with a WF and a Black Max on top, what a sight... I really think I will go for the WF Max, premium, tech and spoiler on the back, it makes some kind of statement. I agree that white makes a car look so different and bigger as well.
Last edited by 4themax; Jul 20, 2008 at 05:20 PM.
This car looks amazing to me. I'm really thinking of getting one in the future, even that i will have to pay +70% of the cost for duty, taxes etc. I'm very sad that i won't have the chance to test-drive one before that, so i will carefully read all your comments on the new Maxima
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 15
Dean
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 15
This car looks amazing to me. I'm really thinking of getting one in the future, even that i will have to pay +70% of the cost for duty, taxes etc. I'm very sad that i won't have the chance to test-drive one before that, so i will carefully read all your comments on the new Maxima
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
I think my 2009 is quieter on the highway in regard to noises and such from any factors other than the sound of the car running. The engine only makes much sound at higher RPMs, and wind, etc. is a bit less noise than from my 2007. But both are well insulated against outside noise.
The turning radius is truly improved by an order of magintude, it's been reduced by nearly 5 feet from 42 to just over 37 feet. It's really noticeable, esp. when doing U turns! and the steering on the 7th generation is more responsive, you don't have to turn the wheel as much to get it to turn. The 6th gen. steers like a sherman tank, the 7th gen. steers like a sports car!
Dean
Just went to the dealer and saw one and it definitely is impressive. I'm not in the market, cuz I'm a manual guy, but that car is extremely nice. And holy **** it comes with 140 treadwear tires STOCK with the sport's package. crazy! But as everyone else mentioned, it looks much better in real life than in the pictures. It looks much more aggressive and upscale...also the interior blows the 6th gen's interior out of the water. That's definitely the most notable improvement between years. The back seats look badass.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 8,143
From: a meadow south of Atlanta
brio_max - I have a 6th gen SL, which rides reasonably softly. Nissan has worked very hard to improve the chassi on the '09, and auto mag testers all seem to agree the '09 has a much better chassi than the 6th gen. They say it handles rough road surfaces very well.
With this better suspension, I would think the '09 in S, SV and SV+Premium (all three on 18" 45 profile tires) would ride with more control, less roll and very near the same softness as the 6th gen SL. I would expect the '09 SV+Sport (on 19" 40 profile tires with thicker stabilizer bars) would ride with more control, less roll, and very near the same firmness as the 6th gen SE.
But we will have to await those who have already made the move from 6th gen to 7th gen to confirm this.
'onlyoneway2rock' is very correct about the turning radius improvement. Nissan said the radius has been reduced at least four feet. Two posters have said they noticed improvement nearer five feet. That is going from one of the worst to one of the best.
With this better suspension, I would think the '09 in S, SV and SV+Premium (all three on 18" 45 profile tires) would ride with more control, less roll and very near the same softness as the 6th gen SL. I would expect the '09 SV+Sport (on 19" 40 profile tires with thicker stabilizer bars) would ride with more control, less roll, and very near the same firmness as the 6th gen SE.
But we will have to await those who have already made the move from 6th gen to 7th gen to confirm this.
'onlyoneway2rock' is very correct about the turning radius improvement. Nissan said the radius has been reduced at least four feet. Two posters have said they noticed improvement nearer five feet. That is going from one of the worst to one of the best.
lightonthehill, onlyoneway2rock:
Thanks for answering my questions!
I'm very glad to see that the 09' Maxima is better in every aspect than any other previous generation. At this time i'm definetely decided to buy one in the near future.
Greetings
Thanks for answering my questions!
I'm very glad to see that the 09' Maxima is better in every aspect than any other previous generation.
At this time i'm definetely decided to buy one in the near future. Greetings
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 42
From: Lafayette, LA
This car looks amazing to me. I'm really thinking of getting one in the future, even that i will have to pay +70% of the cost for duty, taxes etc. I'm very sad that i won't have the chance to test-drive one before that, so i will carefully read all your comments on the new Maxima
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
It would be great if someone with a 6th gen SE, who already drove the new Maxima, answers a few questions for me?
Is the ride more comfortable with the 7th gen SV(non-sport) compared to the 6th gen SE? I mean the whole suspension not the seats(i know the 09' has softer ones)
Which one is more "quiet" on the highway - engine, wind noises etc
Is really the turning radius significantly better with the 09'?
Thanks in advance!!!
I only test drove a 2008 SE back in the fall and now I am driving a 2008 SL until my 2009 arrives. When looking at the 2009, I test drove an SV non sport. I have to be honest. I really don't know which had the smoother ride. The SL is definately a little better riding than the SE was..and it is supposed to be of course. But it is hard for me to compare the ride of the 2009 non sport Maxima versus the 2008 SL. I really don't know. But the turning radius as others have said is a DEFINATE improvement. I don't think there can be any doubt. That 2009 turned way better than this 2008 I am using now. Hope that helps.
briomax,
I only test drove a 2008 SE back in the fall and now I am driving a 2008 SL until my 2009 arrives. When looking at the 2009, I test drove an SV non sport. I have to be honest. I really don't know which had the smoother ride. The SL is definately a little better riding than the SE was..and it is supposed to be of course. But it is hard for me to compare the ride of the 2009 non sport Maxima versus the 2008 SL. I really don't know. But the turning radius as others have said is a DEFINATE improvement. I don't think there can be any doubt. That 2009 turned way better than this 2008 I am using now. Hope that helps.
I only test drove a 2008 SE back in the fall and now I am driving a 2008 SL until my 2009 arrives. When looking at the 2009, I test drove an SV non sport. I have to be honest. I really don't know which had the smoother ride. The SL is definately a little better riding than the SE was..and it is supposed to be of course. But it is hard for me to compare the ride of the 2009 non sport Maxima versus the 2008 SL. I really don't know. But the turning radius as others have said is a DEFINATE improvement. I don't think there can be any doubt. That 2009 turned way better than this 2008 I am using now. Hope that helps.
I have still enough time to think over the new Maxima, but looks like my opinion on this car won't get changed much
Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 65
Good morning....
I finally test drove an SV Sport with Tech Pkg, S, and a reg SV...wow, what a difference from an 07 SL... I wanted to drive the SV Premium but didn't have time as it was 9pm... Now Im thinking about trading in my 07 SL... the GM at the dealer was willing to payoff my 07 (as a wash out) but was giving me the SV Sprt + Tech Pkg for 37,100, then took an additional 1,850 off and I was thinking about putting 2K down... wasn't fully sure if this was a good deal so I put it on hold for now... my question is does anyone really knows what is the actual Invoice price for these cars as oppsed to the MSRP?... my payments would have jump up about 52-68 more a month, I only had my 07 for 1.5yrs now.... any feedback or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.... Thanks for your time...
Eddiesalsa
I finally test drove an SV Sport with Tech Pkg, S, and a reg SV...wow, what a difference from an 07 SL... I wanted to drive the SV Premium but didn't have time as it was 9pm... Now Im thinking about trading in my 07 SL... the GM at the dealer was willing to payoff my 07 (as a wash out) but was giving me the SV Sprt + Tech Pkg for 37,100, then took an additional 1,850 off and I was thinking about putting 2K down... wasn't fully sure if this was a good deal so I put it on hold for now... my question is does anyone really knows what is the actual Invoice price for these cars as oppsed to the MSRP?... my payments would have jump up about 52-68 more a month, I only had my 07 for 1.5yrs now.... any feedback or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.... Thanks for your time...
Eddiesalsa
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 607
From: Florida
Eddiesalsa, I think you have a little more than $20k left to be paid off for your 07 Max. I do not think that is a good deal for you to give up the 07 at that price. While the 09 might seem tempting, we do not yet know the glitches. It is always risky to buy a vehicle in the first year of its new generation. Moreover the prices of the 09 are too high right now. Also, the 09 did not make much improvement in the mpg department over the 07. Lastly, don't you wanna take a look at the diesel Max coming in 2010... with that low end torque and much better mpg!!! Sorry, couldn't support your buying a 09 Max more but felt like responding since I also own a 07 Max SL and recently happened to see the 09 in person (but didn't test drive).
Regarding invoice price, you can check edmunds.com.
Regarding invoice price, you can check edmunds.com.
Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 65
bb700092... thanks for all the feedback, really appreciate you taking the time to respond... I agree with you on the 1st year of a new gen, and no improvment on the MPG... I just checked my acct, my payoff is 17.1K; got the GM to go down on the price for the SV Sprt + Tech Pkg to 35.5K, and my trade at 20K....plus I was thinking about throwing 2K on top of this...offer is still on the table, but I'm not going google over it...they say never go to a 5star restaurant on a totally empty stomach.... you will eat with your eyes before your appetite .... what do you think about this offer?
Thanks,
.... what do you think about this offer?Thanks,
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 607
From: Florida
How well is your 07 SL loaded? What is the condition? How many miles on it? You should check at kbb.com what the trade-in value of your 07 is. If I were you, I would try selling my 07 to a private party until Nissan starts offering incentives on the 09 Max. In this economy and with rising gas prices, Nissan won't find too many takers for the 09 Max and will start offering incentives by this year end or beginning of next year. My advice is to wait for that and in the meantime try selling your 07 to a private party. If you can sell, thats good. If you can't, you will always be able to trade it in at the dealership. Also, take that time to test drive a few 09 Max with different packages at different dealerships to know where you have the best chances for trade-in and a low price on the 09. I guess you already knew all these 
Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 65
bb700092...thanks for the words of wisdom ; I will wait and look around... my SL is loaded with only stock equip (entry level SL), the only thing I added was the XM receiver, but that I will take with me & rear spoiler...current miles is 43.5K; kbb list the following: TV - E=16K, G=14.9K, F=12.9K... PPV - E=18.9K, G=17.7K, F=15.9k....
Who knows, I may look at a BMW 5Series; they seem to be getting 28mpg now....
Thanks for your time...
; I will wait and look around... my SL is loaded with only stock equip (entry level SL), the only thing I added was the XM receiver, but that I will take with me & rear spoiler...current miles is 43.5K; kbb list the following: TV - E=16K, G=14.9K, F=12.9K... PPV - E=18.9K, G=17.7K, F=15.9k.... Who knows, I may look at a BMW 5Series
; they seem to be getting 28mpg now....Thanks for your time...
