The first production model of the all-new 2009 Nissan Maxima today rolled off the assembly line at Nissan North America’s Smyrna, Tenn., manufacturing plant, signalling the return of Nissan’s flagship to its roots as a commanding 4-door sports car.

Sporting a bold new look, as well as a more powerful V6 under the bonnet, the “Job 1” 2009 Maxima was driven off the assembly line during a midday celebration attended by Nissan employees and executives.

“The Maxima is an important car for Smyrna and for Nissan,” said Greg Daniels, senior vice president, U.S Manufacturing, Nissan North America. “It’s our responsibility to build a high quality vehicle each and every time. Our customers deserve it and expect no less.”

Changes were made in three key areas of the seventh generation Maxima. The exterior took on a more aggressive look that imparts a strong, premium presence.  A “super” cockpit feel was integrated creating an interior that combines a driver orientation with high quality, roominess and user-friendly technology. Class-leading performance was added that enhanced what previous generation owners called “Maxima-ness.”

“We set out to create one of the best performing front engine, front-wheel drive sedans in the world,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan division, Nissan North America. “The Maxima delivers on all levels offering the value, quality, and exhilarating performance consumers have come to expect from Nissan.”

The 2009 Maxima is built on Nissan’s new D platform that provides responsive handling and virtually eliminates the torque steer associated with high horsepower front-wheel drive vehicles.

It also boasts a new Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with manual mode, tuned specifically for Maxima’s sporty driving character. For drivers seeking the utmost in vehicle control, a new “Ds mode” (drive sport) has been added to the CVT for 2009. “Ds mode” is an electronic control logic that enhances sport driving through increased acceleration feel with higher engine revolutions, automatic engine braking, and maintaining engine speed during cornering.