Visually, the cabin has been effectively modernized. The dashboard and door panels present an attractive flowing appearance, instruments are large and legible, and most controls are arrayed in a logical manner.

However, there are a couple of minor deficiencies. The front seats, although nicely shaped, are a little short on thigh support for taller people. Some controls, notably the climate-control push buttons, are not as user-friendly as the latest rotary-knob adjusters found in some competing makes.

Most Maxima options, as well as the features that differentiate GXE, SE and GLE Maximas from one another, are applied to the interior. Appearance can be adjusted to taste by specifying leather instead of the standard - and attractive - cloth seats. A power-adjustable driver's seat is available (standard on GLE), and wintertime comfort can be enhanced by ordering the Cold Weather package that includes heated seats and outside mirrors, as well as a warning light for low windshield-wiper fluid.

Every Maxima has enough standard equipment to make additions almost unnecessary. Air conditioning, power door locks/windows/outside mirrors, a sound system with AM/FM/cassette and a host of smaller - albeit no less appreciated - amenities are routinely supplied.

Other potential additions - automatic climate control, re-mote keyless entry and a CD player, for example - are standard on the GLE, a model that is further distanced from less- expensive versions by its simulated wood trim.

The SE is closest to previous Maximas in its character. It can be distinguished from other models by its white-face-with-black-numeral instruments (the others have conventional black face/white number dials) and trunk-mounted spoiler. The SE shares attractive alloy wheels with the GLE (though it has wider, lower-profile tires), and rides on its own sport-tuned suspension.