Nissan Maxima has good looks in spades (pictures)

The 2016 Maxima lost over 80 pounds from its frame, making for a more svelte gluteus maximus indeed.

Nissan's signature V-motion grille and boomerang headlights make the Maxima instantly recognizable.

The new Maxima sits 1 inch lower than the outgoing model, giving the car a sportier look.

LED daytime running lights are standard across all trim lines, but you'll have to upgrade to the SR or Platinum trims to get LED headlamps.

Power heated side mirrors with LED turn signal integration is standard on the upper trim lines.

A swooping body crease along the side of the Maxima emphasizes the slightly flaring fenders.

Signature LED boomerang taillights and chrome tipped dual exhaust bring a sporty edge to the rear of the Maxima.

Our SR trim test model comes with 19-inch diamond-cut aluminum alloy wheels, wrapped in all-season rubber.

Blacked-out pillars give the illusion of a floating roof.

Overall the four-door Maxima cuts a stunning appearance.

The 2016 Maxima is power by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, knocking out 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque.

An 8-inch color touchscreen is standard across all trim lines.

All Maximas come with satellite radio. Presets are easy to program and the 11 speakers in our SR test model did a fine job of pumping out the volume.

While the navigation system is easy to use, the graphics could use an update.

The spot on driver-focused cockpit is one of the best features of the Nissan Maxima.

Nissan's zero-gravity seats make for comfortable road trips.

Contrast stitching draws attention to the diamond quilted Alcantara inserts in the seats.

The center console is tipped toward the driver, clearly dividing the cabin into driving space and riding space.

A flat-bottomed steering wheel speaks to the sporty quality of the Maxima, but the tuning of the system seems to be a bit off.

The infotainment system can be operated from the touchscreen or the control knob on the center console.

The biggest disappointment in the new Maxima is the inclusion of a continuously variable transmission instead of a six-speed manual, or even the seven-speed automatic that's in Nissan's 370Z coupe.

A 7-inch driver's display fits nicely in the middle of the gauge cluster.