Overview & Reviews

Back in the 1990s, the Nissan Maxima was ideally positioned as a bridge between midsize family sedans and out-of-reach European sport sedans thanks to its powerful V6, upscale interior and catchy "Four-Door Sports Car" marketing tagline. These traits, along with Nissan's continual improvements, ensured the Maxima loyal followers and strong name recognition.

Since that time, other automakers have targeted the Maxima's niche and brought out excellent competing models. For a little while, the Maxima struggled to keep up. The current-generation Maxima, however, is again a compelling choice if you're looking for a sedan that provides both performance and luxury.

Current Nissan Maxima
The Nissan Maxima is a midsize sedan that packs a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. Sending the engine's power to the front wheels is a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

There are two available trim levels: S and SV. The base-model S is pretty well equipped, with a standard features list that includes amenities like a sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and a full complement of safety features. SV models pump up the luxury with features like xenon headlights, leather upholstery and a touchscreen interface with a USB/iPod interface.

A pair of packages available on the SV allows buyers to equip their Maxima with either a wealth of luxury/convenience items (Premium) or sportier performance/appearance items (Sport). To either of these, the Technology package adds a number of high-tech features. This all-or-nothing packaging system means the Maxima can get expensive very quickly.

Despite this, our editors have praised the current Nissan Maxima for its powerful V6 engine and well-tuned suspension. It also offers a high-quality interior and many premium features that make it feel like an entry-level luxury car. However, it's priced like an entry-level luxury car, too, which may be a turn-off to those who'd appreciate a luxury badge to match.

Used Nissan Maximas
The current, seventh-generation Maxima debuted for the 2009 model year. Other than slight styling tweaks and variations in standard and optional equipment, it's effectively been unchanged since.

The previous, sixth-generation model spanned 2004-'08. This Maxima was longer, wider and more powerful than earlier models, though it struggled to stand out against the competition.

Two trim levels were offered during this generation: SE and SL. With a slightly stiffer suspension, the SE was the sportier of the two. Standard features included 18-inch wheels, an eight-speaker CD stereo, keyless entry and one-touch up-down front windows. The more luxury-oriented SL offered 17-inch wheels, softer tuning, wood interior trim, heated leather seats, HID headlights and a 320-watt Bose audio system.

Changes were minimal throughout this model's run, so interested shoppers needn't fixate on a particular year. There was a transmission change, however. Maximas from 2007 and 2008 featured a CVT, while earlier models came with either a five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. Earlier Nissan CVTs were disappointing, but the Maxima's CVT worked quite well. The V6 offered by the more recent models in this generation boasts 255 hp, while older models list a higher rating (265). This is the result of a new power rating procedure enacted in 2007. Actual engine performance was unchanged.

In our reviews, we determined that the sixth-generation Nissan Maxima offered better power, comfort and interior space compared to other V6-powered, front-drive midsize sedans. This generation Maxima's driving dynamics didn't impress like some other competitors, though. Fit and finish and materials quality were also hit and miss. If you're shopping for a used car in this age range, the Maxima might be worth a look. But we'd also recommend the Acura TSX and VW Passat.

Fifth-generation Nissan Maximas were available from 2000-'03. Key improvements over earlier models were a smooth-revving 222 hp from the standard 3.0-liter V6, a boost in rear-seat legroom and an available 200-watt Bose audio system. At the time, our editors were still impressed with the car's power and interior room but were increasingly skeptical of its value. Further upgrades in 2002 included a bump in displacement (3.5 liters) and power (255 hp) to help keep the Maxima at least marginally ahead of Nissan's V6-powered Altima sedan.

Cars built for the 1995-'99 model years constitute the fourth generation. For this Maxima, Nissan added length, improved the quality of the interior and introduced a new 190-hp all-aluminum V6 for all trim levels, which was arguably the gold standard in its day for responsiveness and refinement. Its handling wasn't quite as responsive as the previous version and its styling wasn't very well received, but it was still very popular given its desirable combination of utility, performance and luxury.

The third-generation car was built for the 1989-'94 model years. Nissan was enjoying a product renaissance at the time, and this was the first Nissan Maxima with true sporting credentials. Unlike other Japanese midsize sedans, the Maxima came with a V6 only and an optional manual transmission. Early versions had a 160-hp V6; a 190-hp engine became available in 1992 for the Maxima SE. A second-gen Maxima was available from 1985-'88.

The Maxima is one of Nissan's most historic vehicles in the U.S. market. Known originally as the Datsun 810, it officially became Maxima in 1982 -- also the year that the Datsun brand began its metamorphosis into Nissan.

User Reviews:

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  an aging athlete - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By curtis - October 27 - 2:10 pm

  My Nissan Maxima is a great car and has not given me any trouble it is a class act with unusual style,power and beauty, the Maxima seems more like an exotic with its hidden headlights and so many Maxima enthusiasts i.e. Maxima.org that bread and butter sedans like Camry and Accord dont have,not to mention the 350z engine for top of the line poerformance.

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  Great Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By dewey - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is very quick for a 4 door sedan. Cruising at 100 mph+ is effortless. Suspension is very positive, perhaps to much so, for those with a feel for a very smooth ride. Turning radius is large, likely do to heavy duty cv joints to handle increased power. Power tilt and telescope with 2 person memory, (included in this memory is seat and mirrors), is a nice feature. CD storage is a joke-cant store or remove CDs while transmission is in park position. 4 heated seats and steering wheel makes for comfortable ride on cold mornings. Appearance very cool.

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  Great car -- but RUST - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By MaxRI - October 26 - 8:16 pm

  I have an SE 5-spd with leather. Great car! V6 w/manual is great, interior feels better than many current mid-size sedans. Awesome Bose stereo system. The issue: RUST. Car was in MA/RI its whole life, with many rust-related problems lately: cosmetic, engine issues (clamp rusted - radiator hose came off on road) to now major frame damage ($$$$). Engine and interior still great, though. If you live in Phoenix a 1995 Max would be a great, cheap way to get a fun and well-built car. But 95 is just too old here with snow/salt; mine is being sold.

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  Great Performer - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By MitchieRay - October 24 - 6:46 am

  Bought car new in 05, SE model. 5 sp. Auto-completely loaded. 4 Yrs later now I have 50k miles. Right off the top I have to say the acceleration is very impressive-WOW! Starts strong off the line and keeps pulling & pulling & pulling. Great Torque, & little torque steer. A couple things though. I have the sun roof in it and it developed some squeaks after about 4 mos; took into the dealer 4X, they never could figure it out. They thought it was the headliner and installed a new one but still has the squeaks, I am certain its the sunroof. Finally gave up on that. Has 18" wheels, handles wonderful, All power equipment still working fine. Has developed a couple other squeaks-annoying.

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  They killed my baby - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By osvolant - October 20 - 12:36 am

  One of the best cars Ive ever owned. Bought in 2000 with 40k miles, now has 128k and is going to the junk heap because some idiot crashed into it while parked at the curb- ins. co. is totaling it. Sigh. Excellent balance of performance, comfort, and mileage (25 mpg suburban, 27 highway, 5-speed) Still on the original clutch, original struts, has never needed Freon, burns no oil, has no rust, and the Bose stereo still sounds good. Had to replace one CV joint boot; otherwise only routine maintenance.

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  110% Satisfied - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Kim - October 18 - 5:53 am

  Ive had SUVs, sports cars, sedans, coupes, and my Maxima is the best combination of all of my favorite things in each style of vehicle Ive owned. It has the heavy-feeling ride of the SUV, the handling of the sports car (alot of ZIP!), the interior comfort of a sedan, and the cool feel of a coupe. If I had to replace my car tomorrow, I would go buy one just like I have. My brother has a Mercedes (big whoop) and I like my car tremendously better than his. For $33K, I couldnt ask for anything that meets my needs any better. Besides, it looks awesome on the road!

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  Maxima 3.5 SL is Awesome! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By David Vail - October 14 - 2:00 am

  New 265HP engine is so responsive, I was at 110 in less than a mile during the test drive. It does take a little time to learn how to use all the gadgetry included. Love the skyview roof as we rarely open the sunroof on our other car. Headroom is plentiful, interior space is roomy and the ride tells you its a luxury car. Only options we bought were the Drivers Preferred pkg, mats, splash guards because the standard features contain so much.

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  THis is why its tough for US to compete - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Jrod - October 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car brand new. Had four other American made cars before it. I travel quite a bit and have over 210, 000 miles and het to have an engine problem. Had to replace the starter at around 140K. But no real repairs. I keep the oil changed every 5-6K. Very low maintenance since the timing belt is chain driven. Wife had a Camry and it was more expensive to keep it up and didnt have as much power. Only wish it had a little more leg room because I am 63" but will DEFINITELY be buying another one. Keep wanting to trade it in but my mechanic says why bother. Its in perfect running condition.

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  I LOVE this vehicle! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By dee - October 10 - 2:56 pm

  I read a lot of the previous reviews and I think the main issue here is maintenance of a sporty vehicle. I usually get 28 MPG in town and 30-40 MPG on the open road (averaging over 80 MPH). Other than regular maintenance and fixing the suspension parts that my kids have bent over the years, I havent had any problems. I do replace tires nearly every year because I have the suspension set tight, nearly race ready (remember this is the same suspension the Mercedes Compressor has). I am an aggressive driver that loves to drive at high speeds on the open road. I have had the recalls done and my grill is still great. I am finally putting spark plugs and a K&N filter in it after nearly 90k miles.

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  Maxima gives maximum bang for your buck - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Jackie Shroff - October 9 - 9:50 am

  We bought this Maxima brand new. Now after 14 years and 150,000 miles, it is still running well. We did oil changes at every 3000 and tire rotations at 6000 and other scheduled maintenance. Replaced a few parts- radiator, front & rear struts, valve cover gasket, front & rear CV axle and O2 canisters. But this is the best built Japanese car. I remember a 20 year old commercial by Datsun (Nissans previous name) "Creating Harmony by Design". Maxima is a living testimony of it. This car has been with us like a family member through college, first job, new home and all other life changes. I think it will easily go till 200K, but eventually a day will come to replace it. Great job Nissan.