January 23, 2003

Nissan Maxima now made in the United States

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Smyrna, Tennessee - The first 2004 Nissan Maxima built in the United States came off the production line in Smyrna, Tennessee on Wednesday. Until now, the Maxima was built in Oppama, Japan.

"Tennessee is proud to be home to the new Maxima," Governor Phil Bredesen said. "Nissan's employees in Smyrna and Decherd should be congratulated on a job well done. The new model is a testament to their dedication and hard work. Plus, it drives great."

The Maxima was first introduced to the North American market in 1981. The sixth generation Maxima launched on Wednesday is the first of 75,000 Maximas to be built at the Smyrna facility annually. The new Maxima uses the same platform as the Nissan Altima which is built on the same assembly line.

The car will be available in two models: a sporty 3.5 SE and a more luxurious 3.5 SL. Both are powered by the VQ 3.5-litre V6 engine - cited as one of the "Ten Best Engines" by Ward's Auto World magazine - which will produce 265 horsepower and 255 ft.-lbs. of torque.

The 2004 Maxima will go on sale in March.

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