Nissan introduced the sixth generation of the Maxima lineup in 2003 as 2004 for most of the markets, including Australia and the U.S.

Introduced above the Altima lineup but sharing its underpinnings with it, the Maxima was already a known and appreciated vehicle. However, Nissan thought it could stand better against Honda’s Accord and Toyota’s Camry if it fit it with just one engine and thus decrease its production costs. Moreover, it added some unique features and, most importantly, it built it with independent suspension in all corners.

The rounded shape of the Maxima revealed a cab-rearward design, which left the impression of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, but it wasn’t. At the front, the Nissan 350Z-inspired headlights featured vertically mounted lamps and turn signals under the same clear lens. A vertical slat cut the grille in two, sporting the Nissan chromed badge. In addition, the carmaker added a unique feature for the car named SkyView, which was a fixed glass panel narrow and longitudinally mounted above the front and rear seats. At the back, the C-pillar was even thicker than on the previous generation, creating a stronger image for the vehicle.

Inside, Nissan offered the Maxima in two trim levels: SE and SL, with the former being the sportier and the latter its more luxurious sibling. In addition, the carmaker offered it with an option for four seats, with a center console that crossed the cabin from the dashboard to the seatback of the rear seat. Customers could choose between cloth or leather-wrapped seats with aluminum or wood trims.

Under the hood, both versions received a 3.5-liter V-6 powerplant paired with a standard five-speed automatic. The SE was available with an option for a six-speed close-ratio manual.