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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  Dont Buy a 2004 Nissan Maxima - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By mortega1 - September 15 - 6:34 am

  In 2007 I began to notice that the “chrome finish” on the front grill was beginning to peel off. This was also beginning to happen on the “chrome” accents that are embedded on the roof of the vehicle. In late 2008 the power window motor located in the driver’s door began to malfunction and now it is not functional at all. In 2009, the power door locks located on the driver’s side (front and rear doors) also began to malfunction. Power to the steering wheel column and the drivers seat have now also failed. I have also experienced issues with the air conditioning system and I have had several leaks in the o-rings that have been addressed several times. Do not purchase a Nissan product!!

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  2nd-Timer - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By pvd47 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  This is my second GLE, and Ive had nothing but great luck and top-end performance from both of them. Im especially keen on the GLEs V-6 engine, which I tested against both the Camry V-6 and the Accord V-6 when I was first looking at the Nissan back in 1998. Honda and Toyota may have ugraded their engine performance in the intervening years, but Id be surprised if either could match the GLE for either power or pickup. A great car, albeit a little pricey and not overly stylish.

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  Great Car - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Steven Smith - September 14 - 7:45 pm

  I test drove the Maxima SR just before the end of 2016 hoping to get a good end of year deal. I didnt get the price I was looking for so I did not buy. Most likely will buy one here in 2017. The SR package looks very sharp IMO and the car drives great. Im 62" and 225lbs and I had plenty of room. Great power and smooth ride and looks like high end luxury sedan.

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  Great car, great value - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By DavidG - September 12 - 5:30 am

  Purchased this car used with about 8k miles on it. New, it stickered for about $31K, but I picked it up for about $21K, a real bargain. This is a fun car. Ive only had 3 problems with the car: At around 25k miles the Speed Sensitive Volume became erratic. Nissan changed out the Bose unit, it was fine for a few months and then the problem came back. They replaced the unit again and suggested if it happened again they would probably replace the amp. Both times were under warranty; no charge. No problems since. I now have about 68k miles, and a few months ago the front psgr window motor was replaced due to some sticking. Thats it. This car is reliable.

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  Great looks, no reliability - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By manny andujar - September 11 - 8:13 pm

  I have had my Maxima for about 3 years now and I love it. This car performs, as well as offer great style. I take care of my car and I would expect it to last. Sadly it has me fed up with its annoying problems such as when I put the cd player on, the left side speakers dont work, the transmission jumps, the back of the car spins out easily, there is even an annoying flickering sound. Sometimes it reeks like rotten eggs, and the steering radius is horrible. I love my car, and I might not ever part with it. It has only 40,000 miles and when I can afford it Im gonna have to get a new transmission, cat converter, cd player and new finger valves.

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  Good but not great - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By bigvic1 - September 11 - 1:30 am

  We purchased a loaded se and owned for almost 2 years. Purchased used in 2008 with 26k on the odometer. Cost was $20k out door with fl tax (orig. Sticker was over $34k. Whoa). Has almost every option except dvd/nav. Here is a good car that could have been great. While dependable, it has it quirks. Fast car, but terrible torque steer. Nice interior, but seats need more padding. Trips over 1.5 hours and your bottom is sore. Great styling, but bad turning radius. Weird cloth substance on dash/doors. What is up with that? Leather would have been perfect. All in all, a sharp looking, dependable car that is good on gas. No maintenance issues in 2 years. No rattles, leaks, creaks etc.

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  Engine says all - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By BIG RAM - September 9 - 10:00 am

  I had the 03 Maxima for a couple of weeks now. I like everything about the car. The SE with the Titanium package is both fun to drive and provides comfort and style. I am currently getting 22mpg and that is mostly highway miles. I expected closer to the higher end, 26. Maybe that will get better as the engine is broken in.

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  This Sedan Tears up the BMW 325 and Audi - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By ejah - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Is this a sedan or not? It feels faster than a sports car, except their are 3 passengers in the back. The Maxima goes 0-60 in 6.3 seconds. Thats fast. It is fun to drive. Nice interior, and oh did I mention it was fast. Cars pull up next to the car and have no idea they can get smoked by a family sedan. This max will make the BMW 325 look silly!!!

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  Maxima SL - Wow this cars fast - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By TimNelson24 - September 9 - 10:00 am

  The best part about the 2004 Maxima is that it has some serious power, but its as luxurious as most European cars that are priced almost twice as much. Its competion, the Toyata Avalon is totally underpowered compared to this car, 210 HP. The best part about the Maxima, is the durability of its V6 engine. My previous car was a 96 Nissan Maxima GXE. After 150,00 miles it still ran like new. Theyre easily 200,000 mile motors. If your thinking about it, I honestly dont think you can go wrong on this car. Its has 5- Series BMW quality for around 30,000. Plus, at least for now, not everyone and their mother has one.

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  Transmission Gone @ 70K - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Phil - September 5 - 6:16 pm

  I am very disappointed with my 2005 Nissan Maxima. My transmission is shot. Started around 60K.... been to the dealer several times. Nissan N America claims they are unaware of trans problems for this car. I know thats bull. Two many "Nissan Heads" are having this same problem. Is Nissan going to own up to this or what? This is my 3rd Max, unfortunately it will be my last! Mr Mech, do you have any advise for this $4,000 trans repair?