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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  Gladiator of the Road - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Maximas Meridius - August 26 - 10:00 am

  For the price you pay for the car, it really makes it worth every penny you paid for the car. The bonus is that you are driving something that is almost in the realm of the 3-series or the C-class. Not too many are out there in this price range that exists. Like the General Maximus (aka Maximas) those can try to ignore its existence, but in the end it will win back its rightful place in the automotive world.

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  nissan maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By brenda riley - August 24 - 7:23 am

  I love my Maxima. It is the perfect size for my family and me. My only disappointment is that it will not charge my cell phone when the car is not running. This is a huge inconvenience for me and may have prevented me from purchasing this particular model had I realized this, as I only use my phone in my car. I think it is a beautiful color and it rides very smoothly. I get many compliments on it wherever I go. It is much roomier in the rear seat than it appears and it also it very easy on gas which is a great switch for me. Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase.

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  Great Car! - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By NissanBoy - August 22 - 10:10 am

  This is my third Nissan car within the last 2 yrs. I absolutely love the sportiness of all of their cars. I decided to upgrade to the fully load Maxima 3.5SL, because my 2008 Altima 3.5SE rattled too much. I truly believe that I could not have made a better choice. I test drove the Lexus ES and Lincoln MKZ, none of those vehicles had the character of the Maxima. After testing driving the Max, I was sold!

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  Absolutely love it!! - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Max17man - August 19 - 2:00 am

  I got my 96 GLE loaded when I got my license, and have loved it ever since. It has everything I could ask for and then some. The Bose audio system is simply amazing, I thought I was gonna have to spend big bucks for a nice sound system, not with this car! The sunroof is an added bonus, so are the leather seats. When merging onto highways, Im at 60 MPH in no time.

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  Very Happy - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By bjacobs71 - August 17 - 10:00 am

  I drove most of the large and midsize sedans on the market before I decided the Maxima was right for me (started shopping last Feb.). Maximas reputation for being a well built, reliable, refined car is deserved. There is nothing about the car that I dont like. Its performance and handling are superior. Its obvious that the car is well built - youll know as soon as you open one of the interior compartments. The sound system is good. The interior is comfortable and roomy - suprised me, Im 62". The trunk is also larger than Id have figured. The fuel economy is good. Best of all, it was $3500 off MSRP at the dealership I purchased it from.

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  Problems and more problems - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By newsmaker - August 17 - 8:43 am

  If you are considering this car, dont buy it. We bought new and paid down in 3yrs. Always told service at dealership about jerky movements when shifting and accelerating. Transmission began having major problems at 56K miles. Took it to Nissan shop and they suggested trans oil change. Did not wanted to hook it to scanner. They said car did not need it. Now at 62K miles it is being repaired ($2K at auto shop) and Nissan wont respond. This car can endanger the drivers and passengers life. Will never buy Nissan again.

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  Best Bank for your Buck - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Emmanuel - August 16 - 11:53 am

  I bought a 1995 Nissan Maxima SE with 187,000 miles on it and it now has 209,000. People cant believe the power and solidness of this car. It honestly puts most other cars to shame. When I buy another car, it will be another 1995+ Maxima because it has one of the best and smoothest engines(VQ) and transmissions (LSD) ever made. Just a word of advice to anyone considering buying one of these, the engine and transmission are the same from 1995 to 2001 so you know that they are good. For the price, you cant beat it. You will pay thousands more for a lesser car in all aspects.

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  A mixed bag - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Cleanshot - August 16 - 11:06 am

  This car has been a mixed bag. The engine, transmission, and interior have held the test of time. It currently has 130K miles, but right around 100K it turned into a money pit. In the past 30k miles I have put close to $5K in it for weird things like a new brake system and electronic engine mounts. Its always gone to the dealer for regular maint. The worst part is the suspension. Its crap! The road is absorbed through the steering wheel and the struts always feel loose. Ive also had a constant wheel shimmy that we live with. I will keep it as long as possible, but I just bought a second car Lexus ES 350. Its no performance car but I love the ride.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Nismo Maxima - August 14 - 1:03 pm

  This car gives me no reason to ever buy another car, at least for years to come. I added the Nismo cold air intake accessory to the vehicle and love the extra sound at 5500 rpm with a mild extra boost. The acceleration is prime and the style rivels the exotics in my opinion. I have always been an accord fan, but this car takes the blue ribbon. I would not want another car or could not think of another car to buy that compares to this. Im not sure what consumer reports tested or JD Power for that matter. When Motortrend has got 5 Hyundais in the motortrend finalists, it makes me wonder if Hyundai owns shares in Motortrend. This car is the real deal and you wont be dissatisfied.

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  2001 Maxima SE - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By BV - August 13 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Very quiet interior. Powerful V-6 even at 222hp. Handles better than expected for a full size sedan with 4 doors. Excellent room inside. fits four adults easily. Steering wheel radio controls. Big trunk. Seats are form fitting, but could be a tad "cushier". HUGE storage with FOUR areas for drinks,cans,cups etc....and holds them secure!! Huge center storage for CDs to even stand upright. Would easily buy the same car again.