What happens when you put a garish chrome grille, bright cast aluminum wheels, a conservatively styled taillight arrangement and a wood-trimmed interior onto a Nissan Maxima? Infiniti's excuse to charge a premium for Nissan's excellent sport sedan. In fact, we can't find much reason to buy the Infiniti I30 over the Nissan Maxima, aside from the quality treatment that Infiniti dealers bestow upon their customers.

So, what are the real differences between the two cars, aside from the prestige of the Infiniti nameplate? The I30 offers standard goodies such as a power driver and passenger seat, a better warranty, antilock brakes, simulated wood interior trim, automatic climate controls, variable intermittent wipers, keyless entry and security system, heated outside mirrors and cargo netting; all stuff you can get on the Maxima at extra cost. Available on both cars is the Traction Control System, which monitors wheel slippage and applies intermittent braking while reducing engine speed, and limited slip differential. Exclusive to the I30 are items like speed-sensitive steering, chrome accents, simulated leather door trim, integrated HomeLink transmitter, dual map lights, automatic anti-glare rear view mirror, map pockets, cellular phone pre-wiring and green tinted glass.

The I30 is available in two trim levels: Standard and Touring. The Standard I30 is powered by a 190-horsepower 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine. The Touring model adds sport-tuned struts and shock absorbers, five-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, 215/55R16 tires and a choice between a manual or automatic transmission. A loaded Maxima SE runs about $30,000, while an essentially identical Infiniti Standard can cost more than $33,000.

So, basically we're looking at a sizeable price difference. Is the I30 worth the extra expenditure? We don't think so. However, we tend to be more practical than most buyers in the near-luxury segment of the market. If the Maxima's styling turns you off, the I30 is probably right up your alley. Not only will the premium paid get you better service and a few extra convenience items, but you'll have peace of mind, knowing that your new "I" is covered by one of the best warranties in the business.