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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  Best car I ever owned - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By RV - July 16 - 9:23 am

  One owner, never had a problem. Next car will be a Maxima, and never in 35 years have I ever bought the same model twice in a row.

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  Maxima - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Tim - July 14 - 2:06 pm

  The car handles like a dream. The pickup and go is smooth and fast. Its a classy sedan.

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  Just OK - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By sgkoch - July 13 - 8:33 am

  I bought my 2007 Maxima new and it now has 22K miles on it; I live very close to work. At 19K miles the AC compressor went and took out the whole system including the serpantine belt. We were stranded in the middle of nowhere 75 miles from home. Thankfully I had 9 days left on the 3/36 warranty so the AC was covered. However Nissan did not have the compressor in stock and it was on backorder for 2 months. What does that tell you...Must be alot of ACs going out. They did provide me with a rental car but it was still a pain not having my car. Other than that nightmare the car has been OK. Its fast, it handles fine for what it is and its comfortable. The Bose system is great.

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  My Maxima - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By 2 Time Maxima Owner! - July 11 - 4:56 am

  The 01 20th Anniversary Special Edition is a wonderful vehical inside and out, including the mechanical parts. Nissan builds wonderful cars and the safety features are great. The car rides just as you move the steering wheel and stops on the dime. No hesitations! This is my second Maxima, previously owning a 95. The bang is not as strong but it drives just as well. I feel extremely safe in Maximas. The 95 Nissan was my first car, I thought I was in the Indy 500 and should have been dead 3xs. However, have been driving the Maxima saved my life.

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  Love my maxima - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By chiller - July 9 - 8:43 am

  There are so many things I love about this car. Ive owned many different makes and models over the years, but this is my favorite car. It looks great, drives great, and is super comfortable. One of my favorite features - a heated steering wheel. (I live in the Midwest.) Ive had just regular maintenance and no mechanical issues at all. I usually trade my vehicles in after three years, but Im actually thinking of keeping this one for awhile. Well, maybe Ill trade it for a new Maxima. I would like remote start.

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  "This is the One" - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Margarita Gutierrez - July 8 - 2:20 pm

  Prior to purchasing this great car, all cars previously owned gave me so much trouble, were so unreliable, and had to spend a lot of time and money at the dealer or somewhere else getting them fixed. After so much frustration and having heard all great things about the Maxima, specially since my brother had previously owned one (for about four months when it was stolen), I decided to buy one. In the short period of time my brother had his Maxima, he loved it, and encouraged me to get one. From the beginning I knew my Maxima was finally the one and that I had made the right choice among the other cars I looked at time of purchase.

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  AZ First 2009 Maxima Buyer! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Srini - July 7 - 9:43 pm

  Luckily I happen to be the owner of the Arizonas first 2009 Nissan Maxima :) I have had it only couple of days, but gentlemen, this car is a treat. The ride is so much better than any earlier Maxima. Especially at turns, this cars gives a damn good feel. With 290HP, this cars is giving me 21MPG in city so far, which is only 2 days. Interior is much richer and I would rate it as better than Infinity G35. 3.5S comes standard with 8-way power seats (with manual lumber support), moon roof and 8 speaker audio system, steering wheel mounted audio controls, all of which are upgrades in other cars like Altima or Accord. Will come back with more reviews after I get to drive it for couple of weeks

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  Great premium level sporty family sedan - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Kevin L - July 7 - 7:11 pm

  If youre looking for a premium family sedan with cabin space that can fit 5 people comfortably, look elsewhere. If youre looking for a premium family sedan with performance, sporty feel, AND fits 4 people comfortably, this is THE CAR! Materials used and the technologies included with the Platinum trim in this car are top-notch with this price tag. When you sit inside the car, it really feels more like a sports car than a traditional sedan because of the interior design, this is probably why Nissan wants to label it as a 4DSC (4 doors sports car). Handling is great for a car thats between mid-full size. Acceleration is plenty with 300HP and 261lb-ft torque. Some people complain about the CVT installed in this car, however those are also enthusiasts who should be driving sticks instead of auto if they really want that "feel" of the engine. IMO, CVT in this car is not bad at all and Id say 95% of the population wont even notice the difference if they werent told about the CVT. With the CVT, my best fuel economy so far is 34mpg highway and averaging 24mpg in city. Safety features that come with this car and especially in Platinum trim are great to have. My car insurance went down 40% switching from a 2011 Camry to this car. Insurance agent told me thats probably because of the safety features and safety ratings from the new Maxima. If youre considering this car, Id suggest watching some review and comparison videos on Youtube.

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  max 6+ years - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By dogz max - July 5 - 3:23 am

  Ive had my MAX since January 2000. It is a vehicle well worth buying. Ive changed the oil, spark plugs, knock sensor, brakes, and timing belt. Unbelievable how I dont now the inside of dealership. Wish 2004 Max generation family had better reviews because I will stick with Nissan, just think about getting the Q45. I have 155,000 miles now and still runs almost as good as the day I bought it with 22,000 miles on it. I highly advise this car to anyone.

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  Traded my Benz, best move I ever made - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Quincy - July 4 - 10:00 am

  My wife liked my car so much (04 6spd SE) and she hated her 01 MB C240, the Benz was in the shop once every 45 days and we only had it 10 months. we had the loaner just as much as our car. The service at the Benz dealership was awful as well. Finally, we had enough, she said why dont I just get a maxima too, fine with me, she likes a soft smooth ride so she went for the 04 SL auto, hasnt complained since.