Hey all,
New guy here thinking of taking the Maxima plunge. I think they're beautiful cars with a great balance of comfort and power. One thing I'm having trouble with deciding however is the trim level. The SR seems like it would be more fun, but the year newer SL will have Android Auto which from using in friends cars is actually a really nice creature comfort. Is the suspension tuning and other performance tweaks in the SR that much more noticable than the other trim levels? I don't really care about having a sunroof. Those seem to be the primary differences between the SL and SR models (and obviously the Android auto in the 18 SL being a year newer). I'd gladly go the SR if the driving experience is noticably better, I've got some nice twisty country roads on the way to golf and enjoy being able to push a car a bit. Both vehicles have about 30k miles, SR is black, SL is silver, both Bose, all the safety junk, decklid spoilers, etc. Same price. Basically suspension(if it's noticable) vs. Android auto/creature comforts.
Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

For many people (including me), the suspension in the SR is a negative because it makes the ride too harsh. Test drive the SR thoroughly and make sure you are ok with the ride comfort.

 

Get the SR... Better suspension, 19 inch wheels.... Ride will be a bit harsher.. 19 inch tire with a 40 series sidewall tends to do that.

 

I am currently driving my second 8th generation SR, a new 2020- while the ride is firm, I would not call it "harsh", it is a bit more controlled than the other models. Highway driving is very good, it certainly does not feel overwhelmingly stiff. I do enjoy pushing it on back roads, but this is still a conventional front wheel drive sedan, not a hot hatch or an M series BMW. If Android is a feature you feel the need for, then the SL may suit you better. I'll wave as I pass you in the SR...

 

I say go with the 18. I can't imagine not having android auto at this point. Plus, Imo sport mode works pretty well in these cars and the handling is pretty dang good in every trim. Only way I'd say get the SR is if it was a 2020

 

I say shop for Platinum if you buying used.

 

That's a good point. I've had a Maxima S as a rental and it didn't exactly feel mushy. Felt fairly tight for the size of the vehicle. Thanks.

 

Yeah, Android auto doesn't seem like it should be a deal breaker but when I think about how often I use navigation, music, etc. it's starting to feel more important than handling in a car that's not really meant to be a Ferrari in the corners anyways. Thanks.

 

Thanks for the input 😁 I'll wave pleasantly regardless of we're both rolling such fantastic machines!

 

no worries, best of luck on your decision, either way I am sure you will be pleased..