Nissan rings in the changes on Maxima

NISSAN has pulled the wraps off a heavily revised version of its flagship Maxima sedan, due on sale in the US in August.

There is no official word on if and when the newcomer will arrive here, but it is likely to make its local debut next year as the existing model has been on sale since December, 1999.

The updated Maxima's new-look face clearly distinguishes it from the current car.

It features aggressive clear-lens headlights and a smooth bumper unit that houses an open-mouthed grille.

Under the bonnet lurks a new 3.5-litre V6 that cranks out a hefty 194kW and 333Nm. A new six-speed manual transmission will also be offered in the US, but it is not clear whether we will get it.

Other key additions include Brake Assist, Electronic Brake force Distribution, High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights and LCD trip computer - all of which will be standard in US-spec cars.

Optional extras will include heated seats and steering wheel and the Nissan Navigation System.