As flagship for Nissan's fleet, the Maxima sedan presents a face with bold grille framed by four-bulb HID xenon headlamps, followed by chiseled yet smooth flanks intended to cheat the wind as the hunk romps down a road. And romp it can, thanks to the 3.5-liter six-pack that generates 255 hp and moves Maxima to the top of the class among mid-size sedans. Maxima divides into three trims -- the price-leading GXE followed by a sport-tuned SE and luxurious GLE. All carry the V6, and a four-speed automatic is standard except on Maxima SE where a rare-for-a-sedan six-speed manual appears. All Maximas also host an independent strut front suspension system and a compact multi-link beam arrangement in back that produces a smooth ride quality and contributes to the car's stability while cornering. A disc brake mounts at each of the four wheels with all tied by computerized links to anti-lock controls (ABS) plus brake assist (BA) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). The 2003 Maxima offers a new Titanium Edition Package for SE trim with either manual or automatic transmission. It stocks a Bose audio system with six-disc CD deck in the dash, side-impact air bags, stainless steel sill plates, alloy wheels finished in dark chrome and a body color called Polished Titanium.
