The answer is simple. Nissan has introduced some running changes to the V6 Maxima sedan line-up and the standout new feature is an in-built Clarion television on the mid-range 30G and top-of-the-line 30GV models.

Retail prices for all three Maxima models have not changed, despite the inclusion of the television and other features included in the running changes.

So now you can park a new Nissan Maxima on Melrose Place/Street/Drive in North Melbourne, Woollahra, Moonee Ponds, Sylvania, Mordialloc, Lane Cove and watch Melrose - or any other television show - without leaving the car!

The television system, which normally retails for $2400, is stored in the same slot where the stereo/CD player is housed and a flexible glass-mounted aerial is attached to the rear window.

When activated, the full-colour 14.5cm screen slides out (like a CD being ejected from the CD player) and can then be tilted to suit driver and/or passengers. Reception quality in most locations is outstanding - the equivalent of home television.

The system includes an FM modulator which is tuned to the Maxima's speaker system to assist reproduction of quality stereo TV sound.

Audio/VCR inputs enable Maxima owners to view home videos through their camcorder, and those with stereo headphones can plug in and listen in privacy.

In addition, the entertainment package for 30G and 30GV models now includes an in-boot six-stacker CD sound system.

Also new in the interior of the new Maxima range is a lap-sash seatbelt for the centre rear seat passenger.

On the outside, new Maxima models are distinguished by stylish new 15-inch alloy wheels fitted to all models - 30S Touring, 30GV. These are identical to the wheels fitted to Infiniti I30 models in North America.

The entry level 30S Touring model gains the Infiniti I30-style chrome grille (as fitted to 30G and 30GV models).

Changes have also taken place with exterior colours. Five current colours have been deleted, replaced by five new ones -Slate Grey, Alaskan White, Twilight, Jade Green and Persian Red. The current silver crystal and eucalyptus colours are carried over to the new models.

Maxima is powered by Nissan's glorious fuel-injected multi-valve 3.0 Litre V6 engine code-named the VQ30DE. For four consectuive years the nissan VQ engine has been named one of the world's top 10 engines by the authoritative American publication, Ward's Auto World.

Maximum power is 142kW at 5600rpm and torque is 278Nm at 4000rpm.

Standard transmission fitted to all three models is Nissan's DUET-EA four-speed electronic automatic.

And - like Nissan's Pulsar models - Maxima comes with the breakthrough ride and handling advantages of Nissan's Multi-Link Beam rear suspension which combines the best features of a multi-link suspension and beam axle.

Announcing the new Maxima line-up, Nissan Australia's Director of Sales and Marketing, Mr Paul Stead, said the stylish V6 sedan now presents an even more remarkable value-for-money proposition for both private and fleet buyers.

"The entry level 30S Touring Maxima offers a V6 powerplant, drivers' side airbag, ABS brakes, cruise control, power streering, electric windows and mirrors, rear spoiler, side skirts, sports alloy wheels, stereo radio cassette and CD player, keyless remote entry with in-built anti-theft system and Nissan's acknowledged Japenese quality, all for a retail price of just $37,990 - clearly one of the very best stories in the prestige segment," Mr Stead explained.

Mr Stead added that, now, with the new 30G and 30GV models offering the television/six-stacker CD system on top of their existing woodgrain interior feature panels, automatic climate control air-conditioning and - for the 30GV - the extra luxury of leather seats and interior door trims, dual airbags, glass sunroof, fog lights and the passive saftey afvance of Nissan's active damper suspension, but with unchanged retail prices of $40,990 (30G) and $49,990 (30GV), Maxima is now a real contender for the best value-for-money proposition in its segment.