2019 Nissan Maxima vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2019 Nissan Maxima showcased a refined evolution of Nissan's V-shaped design, which had become more acceptable over the years. The model featured new projector-beam LED headlights with intricate reflector patterns, an edgier grille, and a silver bumper strip beneath enlarged fog-lamp enclosures. The LED taillights were tinted black, sitting above a revised bumper and quad tailpipes. Despite these updates, the Maxima retained its concave front fascia, wavy side creases, and the distinctive "floating roof" design. Inside, the Maxima offered upgraded materials, with the SV trim boasting contrast stitching, polished black console trim, and minimal hard plastic. The all-black interior exuded quality, with ample padding and upscale textures, rewarding drivers with a premium feel.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus ES had shed its "boring" label by adopting a more aggressive design. The large spindle grille, introduced in 2016, was further enlarged for the 2020 model, complementing the car's larger proportions. The rear featured thin taillamps and a pronounced kink at the back of the side windows, adding to its sleek appearance. Inside, the ES blended modern technology with an organic aesthetic, featuring soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen. The ES offered trims like the 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each with distinct features. The F Sport trim, in particular, added unique styling elements and performance-oriented features, making it stand out in the lineup.

The 2019 Nissan Maxima was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to the front wheels. Despite the potential for torque steer, the Maxima managed to mitigate it effectively, providing smooth and immediate thrust. The CVT simulated gear ratios well, enhancing the driving experience. However, the Maxima's driving pleasure was somewhat marred by a mushy brake pedal and numb steering, although the suspension offered a near-perfect balance of ride quality and nimble response. The Maxima achieved an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 30 highway, and 24 combined.

The 2020 Lexus ES also featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. The ES prioritized comfort and refinement, with a suspension that absorbed road bumps effectively. The steering was light but precise, and the ride was hushed, thanks to Dynamic Control Shocks. The F Sport trim offered an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for enhanced performance, adding a Sport+ mode for a more engaging driving experience. While not a performance machine, the ES provided confident acceleration and a comfortable ride.

The 2019 Nissan Maxima featured a single 8-inch display integrated into the dash, offering touch or knob operation with quick response times. The interior had thick pillars and a slim D-pillar, slightly compromising sightlines. The trunk offered 14.3 cubic feet of space, smaller than some competitors, but passenger room was ample, with especially comfortable front seats. The Zero Gravity seats were designed to reduce muscle fatigue, enhancing long-distance comfort.

The 2020 Lexus ES boasted a spacious cabin with generous head- and legroom in both rows. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console offered multiple storage options. The ES provided 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, mid-pack for the segment, but the rear seats did not fold down, limiting cargo flexibility. The interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with thoughtful storage solutions and ample passenger space.

The 2019 Nissan Maxima came with an updated navigation system, except for the base S trim. The infotainment system featured a customizable home screen, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a high-speed USB-C port. The Maxima was compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, offering remote services through NissanConnect. However, it lacked ProPilot Assist, a suite of semi-automated driving functions available in other Nissan models.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlling the standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch display. While not a touchscreen, the Remote Touch pad was intuitive, with real hard buttons for navigation. The infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a dramatic display on the screen. The ES offered a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo and a head-up display for enhanced technology and entertainment options.

The 2019 Nissan Maxima included standard safety features like forward-emergency braking and a driver-attention monitor. The SV trim added blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, while the SR trim included pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. The Maxima received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in crash tests and emergency braking.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and dynamic radar cruise control. It also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for semi-autonomous driving. The ES included a full array of airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system for comprehensive safety.