I have posted elsewhere that it is possible the new Maxima (2003) will have a V-8. However, I have heard this only from one guy. The word from someone who may be more reliable is that they will just keep adjusting the new V-6 via a computer since most of the workings of it are computer-controlled and keep increasing the HP as necessary in order to compete with the competition. The guy told me that in 2003 they are simply going to increase the HP to 300, and won't be putting a V-8 into it since that may take some Infiniti sales away. Of course, if we don't increase the HP in the 2003 Maxima then the Altima may very well become a joke as the Altima creeps up there with its 3.5L V-6 (the same one, mind you). I was told that this engine is capable of up to 400 HP if adjusted right, but it would not be wise to do so this early on in the new 3.5L game.

Would you buy a 2002 Maxima with 260 HP, which is very nice minus those headlights, or would you simply wait for those 40 more horses? If you decide to wait, who is to say that they won't increase it the next year? Although they would probably only increase the HP every two years or so in order to prevent sales from dropping in anticipation for more horses.

Nonetheless, most Maxima buyers aren't that well-informed like we are and probably wouldn't know or expect that more horses will be there next year. Anyway, just thought I would see what you guys think. Sorry for being long-winded.

 

My poor and lonely post. No one has any thoughts or further insight into this.

 

My speculation is that when and if the maxima gets a v-8 in 2003, it will no longer be a sports sedan, it will become big and mushy to compete head on the toyota avalon.

 

It is highly unlikely Nissan will offer a V8 with the 2003 Maxima. Not that I would object to that, but unless Nissan really pushes the Maxima upscale, it will not get a substantially more powerful engine either. And since it will be built on the Altima platform, it is also unlikely to be RWD.

 

I'd doubt a V-8... it'b be overkill against the 3.0L Avalon which it is s'posed to compete with... and it'd march into Infiniti territory...
and a 300hp V6? naaaa i really doubt it... its against the Avalon... and well if you want you could always tune it from the stock 260 to 300...
I have dire predictions for the'03 max... i predict it turning into a Japanese land barge... haha thats what it looks like to me