2000 Nissan Maxima Trims and Specs

The base mid-size luxury offering from Nissan adds some interior length and headroom, thanks to an expanded wheelbase, and 32 more horsepower to its 3.0-liter, DOHC V6, which now hits 222-hp and is matched to either a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. The 2000 Nissan Maxima GXE is a front-wheel drive sedan with full power features (windows, locks, mirrors), cruise control, wheel-mounted audio controls for the cassette player, a security system, leather trim, and remote entry. And this is just the base model.

The 2000 Maxima GXE also features dual front airbags, earning 4-star crash ratings (side impact bags are optional). Other equipment includes intermittent wipers, a tachometer, and automatic headlights. There are plenty of high-end options, such as a sunroof, leather seats, heated seats and mirrors, a power driver's seat, a CD changer, remote garage opener, and sporty rear spoiler. Owners of the 2000 Maxima GXE say it is comfortable, with nice power and acceleration, easy handling, and an upscale exterior look. There does seem to be a problem with the ignition coils and oxygen sensors, and owners don't like the need for premium gas and the so-so fuel economy (21/27 mpg).

The 2000 Nissan Maxima SE is the sporty version of the personal mid-size luxury sedan, which received extra interior length and an increased trunk size, to a generous 15.1 cubic feet. The front-wheel drive sedan seats four and is powered by a 24-valve, 3.0-liter DOHC V6 that gets a power boost to 222-hp and has 217 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual is standard and 4-speed automatic optional. The 2000 Maxima SE is similarly equipped to the GXE, with full power features, leather trim, dual front airbags, 4-wheel ABS brakes, cruise control, a security system, remote entry, automatic headlights, and wheel-mounted audio controls.

But the 2000 Maxima SE adds on foglights, a rear spoiler, and a stiffer sports suspension for better road feel. It also has larger 16-inch alloy wheels (the other trims carry 15-inch wheels). Option packages upgrade it to GLE luxury, with a sunroof, power front seats, heated leather upholstery, heated seats and mirrors, upgraded sound system, a remote garage opener, automatic climate control, and traction control. Drivers praise the power and handling of the 2000 Maxima SE, saying it is fun to drive, with good pickup. Early brake wear and ignition coil repairs are common problems.

Adding a little more luxury to this personal mid-size luxury sedan, the 2000 Nissan Maxima GLE is elegant, smooth, and comfortable, according to owners. It gets 21/27 mpg with a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine that ups its horsepower to 222 this year. This is mated only to a 4-speed automatic, and the 2000 Maxima GLE features dual front airbags, 4-wheel ABS brakes, and 15-inch alloy wheels. Traction control is available as an option. The front-wheel drive sedan seats four comfortably, with a larger 15.1 cubic foot trunk this year.

Upgrading from the power features, leather trim, cruise control, automatic headlights, alarm system, and wheel-mounted audio controls on the base GXE, the 2000 Maxima GLE adds a CD player and upgraded sound system, power front seats, a remote garage opener, foglights, and leather upholstery. Like the GXE, the GLE can add on heated seats and mirrors, a sunroof, side impact airbags, a CD changer, and a rear spoiler. Recurring problems with the 2000 Maxima GLE include oxygen sensor and ignition coil repairs, and a persistent check engine light warning. Drivers do like the added engine performance, interior space, standard features, and tight handling.