Nissan's CVT transmission is something I could live with - but not something I would choose to live with. And when it comes to cars in almost any segment, buyers are spoiled for choice. If I can't have a manual, I'd rather have a good 6-speed auto (can't believe how many supposedly premium cars today are still swapping cogs with retro-tech 5 speeds) or a DSG. I will say that in manual mode, Nissan's CVTs change "gears" faster than most conventional autos - but my experience suggests that this will be a mode rarely used as most non-stickshift transmissions work better when left to themselves.
The CVT transmission is the reason the Maxima - a car I otherwise REALLY like - isn't on my shopping list.
Oh, and I sure don't find the alll-black interior of my Altima too very horrible at all. There are enough silver / chrome accents to brighten the darkness.
![](http://www.fototime.com/E9187B9538A686C/orig.jpg)
![](http://www.fototime.com/7A00EE7BED22FAA/orig.jpg)
Not specifically on topic, but I can't imagine anyone NOT finding the proximity key / push button ignition to be anything less than entirely convenient. Unless some particular joy is taken with fumbling with key fobs and turning and cranking an ignition switch, I suppose. After just a little time spent with this system, it has put the old method in the category of wind-up windows aqnd manual door locks. Sure, I could live with them - but I don't want to. It's a feature my next car will likely have regardless of the brand.
Jaeger