(July 29, 2002) - The 2003 Maxima SE, Nissan's flagship performance vehicle, has outdone itself once again. This year's model received a 33-horse bonus, via a bored out engine and bigger pistons, making for a total of 255 horsepower.

Left: The 2003 Maxima SE

Powered by a 3.5 liter, 24-valve V6, the Maxima SE produces the highest amount of horsepower out of all Toyota cars. The increase in horsepower is complimented by 246 lb-ft. of torque and a standard 6-speed close ratio manual transmission. The Nissan Direct Ignition system with Platinum-tipped spark plugs comes standard, as does the Variable Intake System and Variable Capacity Muffler.

New for 2003 is the Maxima special Titanium Edition Package which includes an AM/FM BOSE sound system along with a 6-disc CD player. Front and side impact supplemental airbags come standard. Other features for the Titanium Edition are bright wheel finish, stainless steel sill plates, floor mats, accent stitching on the steering wheel, and a compass mirror.

While the Titanium Edition Maxima comes in Polished Titanium, there are eight other colors offered, along with five different interiors. For an extra $2,000, an optional navigation system can be added also.

A base priced 2003 Maxima SE will run about $26,000, but some of the more attractive features will bump the price up quickly.

Also: The additions to the 2003 Maxima are parallel to the bulked up Altima, which now sports an equally impressive 240 horses from its 3.5-liter V6 model. Also in the works from Nissan is the 350Z, which is slated to hit dealerships in August. The 350Z will contain almost 290 horsepower and run for a price around $30,000.

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