Proudly proclaiming itself the "4-Door Sports Car," the Nissan Maxima offers the average commuter a bit of pizzazz, and then some; the popular model’s 2013 edition receives modest changes.

Each Maxima is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 hp and 261 lb-ft of torque mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. It gets an average 19 mpg city/21 highway, but because Nissan recommends using premium gas, it will hit you at the pump a little harder. Ouch!

Only 2 trims comprise the Maxima lineup: S and SV. The S starts off feature-rich, with Bluetooth, push-button start and an 8-way powered driver’s seat. The SV bumps it up with fog lights, LED taillights and leather-appointed seats. The car comes standard with 18-inch wheels, and optional 19-inchers are available. A powered moonroof is standard for both trims, with a dual-panel retractable sunshade optional for the SV. A Sports package tricks out the suspension and adds aggressive styling and bucket seats in the rear, while the Premium package adds cherry-wood trim and xenon headlights.

Outside, although it has scarcely changed since 2009, the Maxima is still curvaceous, sexy and modern. The simple grille, elongated boomerang-shaped headlamps and smooth silhouette are distinctive. The car has a handsome palate of exterior colors, including Metallic Slate, Tuscan Sun and new Pearl White.

Inside is just as sleek, although some say the Altima is just as nice for a lower sticker price. Rear seats can be tight for 3 and are a little snug in headroom, but otherwise everybody is in for a comfortable trek. The Maxima comes standard with dual-zone climate control for the front seats.

The CVT gets points for its smoothness; in Sport mode (and with optional paddle shifters) you can almost believe you are driving a manual… but not quite. Gas-pressured shocks and a multi-link rear suspension keep the jostling to a minimum. The dashboard is handsome and modern, and the interior does not look or feel cheap.

Nissan emphasizes safety with not only front and side-impact airbags for the front seats, but also roof-mounted side impact airbags that also include the rear. Other standard features include traction and vehicle dynamic control, and the vehicle scores well in roadside safety tests.

People love their Maximas. The car is sporty enough to keep driving fun. If you are in a carpool for work, this 4-seater offers all passengers a good amount of comfort as well.