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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  5th Gen 2000-02 are best - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Johns - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Purchased new w/Infinity all-leather interior. 130K miles. I take good care of it. Still looks great w/a few minor paint touch-ups. Wonderful car for the S.W. and high-speed touring. Good power/weight ratio. 21 mpg city, 28 highway at 80+mph. Unmatched visibility for touring and safety. Roomy inside and comfortable rear seat for passengers up to 6 tall. Great driving car with ample power. Good human factors design for driver - everything obvious and handy. Replaced all 4 O2 sensors, starter, radiator and alternator between 105K & 120K miles, front camber kit and rotors are due. Regular maintenance w/synthetic oil. Altogether a great car thats fun to drive w/a lot of good miles left in it.

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  Not a Long-term car - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Tri32 - July 23 - 5:53 pm

  Purchased car used @ 39K. Car performance is great. Reliability not great by any means. List of replacement and cost since the car now has 118K miles. Ignition coils-$700, MAF-$400, bad engineering braking system w/replacement of rotors/pad 5 times - $2000, catalytic converter- $1000, muffler-$400, wheel bearing- $500. which total to $5000. Thats too much for me. This does not include other items such tune-ups which is standard on any car. For me, this will be my last Nissan. Dealership experience has been a nightmare. Especially Nissan of Natick Massachusetts. The people there are not very professional and will lie to your face w/o a blink of an eye. Goin bak to Toyota reliability

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  Headlights - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By JanetJones - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Given what I know now, I would have never purchased this car. The headlights are so easy to steal and so costly to replace. Mine were stolen in less than a minute--right in front of me. The thieves popped them out with a screwdriver causing significant damage to the hood and bumper. This is a dangerous car. I worry about my safetly all the time. Nissan has not been sensitive to concerns. Yes, they have recalled the car to install the brackets on the headlights, but they still can be stolen.

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  Best bang for your buck - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By levedis - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Why go for a bland camry when for the same money get more. Its extremely roomy and can fit 5 comforably. Its sleek styling is only going to want to make automakers copy it.

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  Maxima still great - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By JoyS - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Hope Nissan tweaks 2005 This is 4th Max Sporty enough to keep adrenaline up but more luxurious for older bones Int/ext quality not as good as prev Max Question durability Hey Nissan, loyal customers shouldnt doubt

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  The best Max ever - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Testoni - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Maxima (had a 97 and a 01), and Nissan has done a great job overall. Even though the Maxima is based on the new Altima, there is a substatial difference in the driving feel, giving the Maxima a more "upscale" feel (my wife has the Altima).

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  Eye Catcher - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Reddingben - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This is the second, and best, Maxima that I have owned. It looks good moving or parked. The interior is quiet and comfortable, but there is a throaty sound to the acceleration that is very satisfying to the ear. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Fertther - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Ferther - July 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought used. Had a 1991 Maxima that I loved, the 1997 Maxima SE disappointed. The ride is not as assuring and the car feels flimsy in turns, especially on the interstate. Could use some suspension tinkering to make it work better with the 16 tires.

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  Better Than the Altima - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Orthopod - July 20 - 10:00 am

  I went to the dealership expecting to own a new Altima Se, but when I drove the maxima I was Hooked. I admit the Altima may be a tad bit sportier, but what the maxima lacks here, it makes up for in comfort,refinement and style. I have always wanted a sports car, and at 34, am finally able to afford one. However,time and family(two toddlers) have changed my taste, style and needs. The maxima makes me feel young and sporty again when I need it, but is comfortable, convenient and beautiful the rest of the time. Overall, a wonderful combination for a young at heart family man.

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  A truly beauty - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Nobbs - July 20 - 10:00 am

  This car is a wonderful car for the young driver. I had a 95 Maxima before I got the 02 SE Auto. I got into an car accident a little over a month and my old Maxima GLE saved my life. The car is built so well, and care is taken to ensure its perfection. I enjoy driving my 02 Maxima SE Auto as it is very roomy and sporty. The car is great for anyone who like driving a sports car, but prefers a 4-door sedan. The suspension on the car is great; I have tested it out on a number of roads. I would highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a safe, beautiful, and enjoyable car.