The 2006 model year Nissan Maxima will be available with a new continuously variable transmission and an updated exterior and interior design.

Like the recently released Murano, the 2006 model year Maxima combines the powerful 3.5-litre V6 with a 6-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) with M-Mode, which provides smooth and responsive acceleration and offers enhanced fuel economy.

Additional improvements include new look front and rear bumpers, dual rear exhaust outlets, LED taillights, redesigned headlights, front fog lights and alloy wheels.

Inside, the application of leather and new metallic finishes provides a stylish modern ambiance.

The 2006 Maxima’s 3.5-litre V6 engine – also found in the Nissan 350Z Coupe and Roadster – generates 170kW of power @ 5,600rpm and 333Nm of torque @ 2,800rpm.

This sophisticated VQ35DE engine is from Nissan’s acclaimed VQ engine family, chosen as one of the world’s “Ten Best” engines by Ward’s Auto World for eleven consecutive years.

Matching the VQ35DE engine to the continuously variable transmission has broadened the gear ratio range and reduced friction to improve fuel economy. Compared with the previous model’s four-speed automatic transmission, fuel consumption has dropped from 11.2 litres to 10.8 litres per 100km – a reduction of 3.5%.

The 2006 Maxima has an impressive Control Safety System offering greater control and stability through the application of Electronic Brake Distribution, an Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist and Vehicle Dynamic Control.

Driver and passenger safety is enhanced through the Impact Safety System which includes a rigid body construction, active front headrests, front seatbelt pretensionsers, three-point rear centre seatbelt and dual front and side airbags. Curtain airbags are offered as standard on the Ti.

The 2006 Maxima boasts speed sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering, independent suspension with MacPherson struts (front) and multi-link coil springs (rear), coupled with front and rear stabiliser bars.

Braking is via four-wheel disc brakes and all variants bear 17x7JJ lightweight six-spoke aluminium alloy wheels and 215/55R17 93V tyres.

Offered in two highly specified variants – the prestigious ST-L and the luxurious Ti - the Maxima is testament to Nissan’s commitment to deliver exciting and attractive new vehicles with unprecedented levels of style, safety and comfort.

The entry-level variant, the ST-L, offers all the appointments one would expect from a prestige vehicle – dual-zone automatic climate control with rear outlets, power windows, central locking with remote keyless entry, eight-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, drive computer, cruise control, leather seat and door trim, metallic finishes, leather steering wheel and shifter and four-speaker AM/FM radio/CD player.

The Maxima’s Ti variant adds an electric glass sunroof, intelligent keyless entry, six stacker CD player with six-speakers, illuminated driver and passenger vanity mirror, rear park assist and side curtain airbags.

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