new Maxima, which has redefined the large saloon segment with its sporty aesthetics and engaging driver appeal, has seen sales increase by 180 percent since start of sale in Nov. 2015 up to May 2016 comparing to the same period from the previous fiscal year. "The eighth generation Maxima is completely redesigned and is the most powerful and sportiest model in its history," said Nissan Middle East's Managing Director, Samir Cherfan. "It appeals to drivers with a requirement for practicality, state-of-the-art technology, beautiful design and an engaging experience behind the wheel." "The all-new Maxima is redefining what the large saloon car segment can do – and this is evident by the growing demanding for the new model across the Middle East. To see such a dramatic upswing in sales across the region is proof that a modern four-door can be exciting, beautifully designed and performance oriented without sacrificing quality and reliability." The 2016 Maxima has also been named the top scoring full-size car in the Strategic Vision Total Quality Impact (TQI) Awards. The 2016 Maxima had a total evaluation score of 720 – out of a possible 1,000 – besting the other competitors in the full-size car segment and well above the segment average. More than just counting problems, the TQI rating allows owners to fully reflect their experiences with their vehicles, including tangible aspects such as acceleration and visibility, intangible aspects such as vehicle image, emotional aspects and involvement, as well as a comprehensive survey of the number and severity of the vehicle problems reported. According to the study results, Maxima stood out in all key factors – including safety, durability, NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), comfort, workmanship, style, power and pickup, and thoughtful engineering. Maxima also ranked highly in excitement and individuality measures. The recently launched all-new Nissan Maxima has re-defined its segment as it brings head turning design, enhanced performance and state-of-the-art technology to Middle East customers. Together, these attributes make the new Nissan Maxima a unique combination of sports car style with premium elegance. Nissan Maxima's styling showcases Nissan's new design language - including V-Motion front end, signature boomerang lights, kick-up C-pillars and unique floating roof appearance. Inside, the Nissan Maxima's premium class-above, bespoke interior is anchored by a driver's cockpit that rivals luxury vehicles. The new vehicle was developed under the inspiration of the Blue Angels at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola – Florida, United States. It holds a specific style inspired by the ‘jet fighter' styling theme and ergonomic layout. In a number of aspects the Nissan Maxima's performance substantially eclipses market performance and is on a par with many sports cars, moving it closer to its big brother - the Nissan GT-R. The Nissan Maxima's 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 has been redesigned with more than 60 percent new parts (compared to the previous generation 3.5-liter V6). With 300 horsepower, the Nissan Maxima has a high specific output of 85.7 horsepower/liter. The revised engine helps it achieve an anticipated 15 percent increase in highway fuel economy to an EPA estimated 30 miles per gallon*. — SG