Unclestanky

In December, I bought a 2001 VW GLX with Tiptronic. I am NOT happy with it; terrible reliability, boring, etc. I am looking at a 2001 Maxima SE 5 spd to take its place. Questions: 1)How do they do in the snow? Kinda bummed that you can only get traction control with automatic. 2.)How is the build quality/reliability? 3.) I've heard rumors that there will be a complete redesign in 2002/2003. True or false? Any links to pic's of the new model? In general, I guess I just want to be talked into getting a Max. I'll probably lose my *** trading in a 4 month old car, but I think it might be worth it. Thanks.

Jambo

Yes, the 2003 model will be definitely a change from the norm from what I've been told. Sounds like this is the year we'll see the "big change" everyone's been talking about. Maybe a 6-speed, and a 3.5L engine. We'll see. There aren't any photos of it yet. The 2002 will get a facelift, but we won't see anything huge there.

ajaffee

Build quality is very good. The Max has been one of Consumer Reports' most reliable cars since 95. Actually, this goes for models up until the 2k model. I assume the 2000 and 2001 models are equally as reliable.
Traction in snow is fine (with decent tires). If the tires suck, the traction will be okay, but not great.