As with its predecessor, power flows to the front wheels through a sophisticated, continuously variable transmission featuring four driver-selectable modes and paddle shifting. After a day of highway and secondary road driving, I'm forced to re-evaluate my bias against CVTs thanks to the exemplary performance of this unit. In its manual-mode it mimics the operation of a conventional 6-speed transmission very effectively; otherwise, it performs unobtrusively and without flaw.

The continuously variable transmission features four driver-selectable modes and paddle shifting.

When passing power is needed, the CVT instantly kicks down and places the engine in its sweet spot, launching the Maxima with strong, consistent acceleration without the permeation of torque steer so typical of high-powered front-wheel drive vehicles. The absence of torque steer is a real bonus, and not one that I expected. Previous Maxima generations tormented drivers with excessive torque steer, so to discover more power at the driving wheels and no torque steer was indeed a delight

Ride quality vastly better without compromising handling
Delight was not limited to the absence of torque steer. Ride quality found in Nissan's new Maxima is remarkable given the vehicle's outstanding handling capabilities. Nissan engineers struck a realistic balance between those juxtaposing dynamics. The ride is highly composed while remaining suitably compliant to provide pleasing ride comfort.

Much of the ride quality can be attributed to a more rigid body structure and platform. In every stiffness measurement, the 2009 Maxima exceeds the ratings achieved by the previous generation. As such, bumps, potholes and the like are absorbed by the fully-independent suspension arrangement rather than transmitted into the cabin in the way of undesirable noise and reverberation.

Although our one-day drive didn't provide us with track time, engineers fine-tuned the Maxima's handling and braking on Germany's famed Nürburgring track. This was time well spent I submit. As a result, turn-in is accurate and precise and body lean is a non-issue. During cornering, the vehicle feels well connected to the roadway, stable and wonderfully secure.

In every stiffness measurement, the 2009 Maxima exceeds the ratings achieved by the previous generation.