MIMS: First look at new Nissan Maxima; pricing for new Zed

The Melbourne International Motor Show saw the debut of the new Nissan Maxima that is due to go on sale locally in June. It is an important car for the brand locally, and Nissan has pulled out a surprise with the addition of a 2.5-litre V6 to the range.

The 2.5-litre model will join the 3.5-litre V6 as Nissan goes hunting sales in the mid-size segment for the first time in addition to traditional large car market.

Nissan claims the smaller capacity six-cylinder is capable of competing against both the performance and economy of four-cylinder rivals. Both engines will be mated to the company's CVT gearbox.

"The introduction of the V6 2.5L engine in addition to the award winning V6 VQ35 3.5L engine will mean the all-new Maxima can compete against both medium and large sedans for the first time in the Australian market," says Dan Thompson, Nissan Australia managing director.

"The Maxima has always been an outstanding prestige vehicle that delivers the finest appointments in a quality package. With the advent of the 2.5L engine, we are now able to deliver the same high level of features and quality to those looking for a medium segment sedan."

Nissan Australia has worked closely with the Japanese designers to tailor the new model for the local market. The rear spoiler, wheel design and seat trim are all unique to the Australian version.

Both models will be equipped with 17 inch alloy wheels, leather trim, electronically adjustable driver and passenger seats, dual zone climate control, xenon headlamps, six-disc CD player and keyless start as standard. Safety-wise the car will include six airbags, ABS brakes and electronic stability control.

After some uncertainty over an on-sale date last time, Nissan has confirmed the car will be available from June 1.

Prices will start at $33,990 with further details being held back until the closer to the car's official launch.

Nissan also announced pricing on the new Zed car at today's Melbourne motor show. The 370Z will be offered mid-year in one specification level, at $67,990 for the six-speed manual model, and $70,990 for the new seven-speed automatic (see below).

Powered by a revised 245kW/363Nm 3.7-litre V6, the 370Z features a shorter wheelbase, "greater use of lightweight body materials", a new seven-speed paddle-shift auto and "the world's first synchronised down/up shift rev control system" for the six-speed manual variant.

According to Nissan around 30 per cent of the engine's parts are new.

Also read our 2009 Melbourne motor show overview