A standard feature of the 2004 Nissan Maxima SL is its front fascia which is sharp and cleanly sculpted and features a distinctive Nissan signature grille with a unique, rounded-rectangle shape pattern accentuated by a dark chrome finish, along with a deeply sculpted combination headlight cluster with optional xenon bulbs.

The pronounced rear fascia is elegant and leaves a strong impression, accented with the unique design of the body panel that surrounds the rear taillights. The combination of oversized wheels with boldly sculpted fender openings and double dual exhaust mufflers with chromed tips give Maxima SL a very powerful and dominating stance that evokes a feeling of high performance.

Large 17-inch, 6-spoke alloy wheels come standard are standard on the 3.5 SL. The 2004 Maxima is available in a choice of eight exterior colors, including a bold Radiant Ember, Red Opulence and Spirited Bronze. The driver’s seat is 8-way power and the passenger's seat is 4-way power (standard on 3.5 SL and optional on SE) with height-adjustable head restraints.

Optional to the 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL is a driver seat memory system that adjusts the seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors at the touch of a button. Standard Maxima luxury touches include wood tone trim on 3.5 SL , automatic front dual zone climate control and outside temperature display, rear air conditioning vents, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, auto on/off headlights, driver's and passenger's sunvisors with illuminated vanity mirrors and extenders and an 8-speaker 320-watt Bose® audio system with AM/FM/cassette/6CD in-dash .

All 2004 Maxima 3.5 SL models come equipped with a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, with a gated shifter for better transmission control.