Clash of titans: nissan maxima vs lexus es 350 – which luxury sedan reigns supreme?

The Nissan Maxima and Lexus ES 350 are two highly regarded sedans in the mid-size luxury car market. Both offer a comfortable and refined driving experience, but they differ in their approach to performance, features, and overall style. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nissan Maxima and Lexus ES 350 to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next luxury sedan.

Performance and Handling

Nissan Maxima: The Maxima boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it delivers smooth and responsive acceleration. The Maxima’s sport-tuned suspension provides agile handling and excellent cornering capabilities.

Lexus ES 350: The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the ES 350 is less sporty than the Maxima, it offers a more comfortable and refined ride quality.

Interior and Comfort

Nissan Maxima: The Maxima’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, featuring premium materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. It offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and provide excellent comfort on long journeys.

Lexus ES 350: The ES 350 boasts a luxurious and elegant interior that exudes sophistication. It is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and offer excellent support. The Lexus ES 350 also offers more rear-seat legroom than the Maxima.

Features and Technology

Nissan Maxima: The Maxima comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of features, including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, a Bose premium audio system, and a range of safety and driver-assistance technologies.

Lexus ES 350: The ES 350 offers an equally impressive array of features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Mark Levinson premium audio system, a panoramic moonroof, and a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies.

Safety and Reliability

Nissan Maxima: The Maxima has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Lexus ES 350: The ES 350 has also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offers a similar array of safety features as the Maxima, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Lexus is known for its exceptional reliability, with the ES 350 consistently ranking among the top-rated vehicles in terms of dependability.

Fuel Economy and Cost

Nissan Maxima: The Maxima has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Its starting price is around $36,000.

Lexus ES 350: The ES 350 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Its starting price is around $44,000.

Which Car is Right for You?

The Nissan Maxima is a great choice for drivers seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience, while the Lexus ES 350 caters to those who prioritize comfort, luxury, and reliability. Ultimately, the best car for you depends on your individual preferences and budget.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

Design: The Maxima has a more aggressive and sporty exterior design, while the ES 350 exudes a more sophisticated and elegant look.

Performance: The Maxima offers a slightly more powerful engine and sportier handling, while the ES 350 provides a more comfortable and refined ride quality.

Features: The Maxima comes with a slightly more comprehensive suite of features, while the ES 350 offers a more luxurious and refined interior.

Safety: Both the Maxima and ES 350 have received top safety ratings and offer a range of advanced safety features.

Reliability: Lexus is known for its exceptional reliability, with the ES 350 consistently ranking among the top-rated vehicles in terms of dependability.

Recommendations: A Choice Between Sport and Luxury

The Nissan Maxima and Lexus ES 350 are both excellent choices in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. The Maxima offers a more sporty and engaging driving experience, while the ES 350 provides a more comfortable and refined ride. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and budget.

Popular Questions

Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Maxima has a slightly more powerful engine with 300 horsepower compared to the Lexus ES 350’s 302 horsepower.

Q: Which car gets better gas mileage?
A: The Lexus ES 350 gets slightly better gas mileage with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway compared to the Maxima’s 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has a more luxurious interior?
A: The Lexus ES 350 has a more luxurious and elegant interior with high-quality materials and exceptional comfort.