When evaluating midsize sedans, the question of all-wheel drive capability frequently arises for buyers considering the Nissan Maxima. The short answer is that the standard drivetrain for the current generation Maxima is a front-wheel drive system, paired with a continuously variable transmission. However, the relationship between the Maxima and all-wheel power is more nuanced, involving specific trim levels, model years, and performance-oriented configurations that potential owners need to understand before making a purchase decision.
Drivetrain Architecture: FWD vs. AWD
To address the core inquiry directly, it is essential to distinguish between standard equipment and available options across the Maxima’s production history. For many years, the Maxima was exclusively offered with front-wheel drive, a layout common among traditional American sedans prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. This design choice influences handling characteristics, as power is delivered only to the front wheels, which can limit traction in severe weather conditions compared to a system feeding all four corners simultaneously.
The Introduction of the ATTESA E-TS System
Breaking from the FWD-only trend, Nissan introduced an available all-wheel-drive system for the Maxima during the 2020 model year. This system, borrowed from the brand’s performance heritage, is known as ATTESA E-TS. It represents a sophisticated approach to power distribution, using a clutch-based center differential to manage torque between the front and rear axles. The goal of this integration was to provide enhanced stability and grip during acceleration, particularly in less-than-ideal road conditions, without transforming the sedan into a harsh-handling sports car.
Trim Level Specifics and Performance Models
Understanding which trims include the ATTESA E-TS system is critical for accurate information. This advanced drivetrain is not distributed across the entire Maxima lineup. Instead, it is reserved for higher-tier trims, with the SL being the primary recipient of this technology in recent model years. Below the SL, the more base-oriented S and SV trims continue to rely solely on front-wheel drive. For driving enthusiasts, the relationship between the Maxima and AWD becomes most apparent in the realm of performance variants, where the connection to the iconic Nissan Skyline lineage is most strongly emphasized.
The Nismo Maxima: The Pinnacle of AWD Integration
For the driver seeking the ultimate connection between the Maxima nameplate and all-wheel power, the Nismo trim stands as the definitive answer. The Nissan Nismo division takes the standard SL platform and equips it with a more aggressive suspension, enhanced braking, and a turbocharged engine producing over 400 horsepower. Crucially, the Nismo Maxima utilizes the same ATTESA E-TS AWD system found in the base SL, but with Nismo-specific calibration that prioritizes performance. This setup delivers the power to the ground efficiently, allowing the sedan to corner with remarkable confidence while maintaining the composed ride quality expected of a luxury sedan.
Practical Benefits and Real-World Considerations
For the average driver, the presence of an AWD system on the Maxima offers tangible benefits that extend beyond dry-track performance. In regions that experience heavy snowfall, freezing rain, or frequent coastal fog, the system provides a significant safety advantage. By distributing power to the wheel with the most traction, the AWD Maxima reduces the likelihood of getting stuck during winter commutes and inspires greater confidence when navigating winding roads in the rain. This reliability in varied weather conditions is a primary reason buyers are willing to accept the slight reduction in fuel economy that accompanies the added weight and complexity of the drivetrain.
