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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  excellent - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By allmaxedout - July 2 - 2:00 am

  it is the fastest 4 door in its class. leave accords and camrys in the dust.

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  Loud interior - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By DeLuxe Machine - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I love this car, but the interior is much louder than it should be for a car of this price. Thats really the only disapointing part about this vehicle.

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  good car for first 3 yrs - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By davechi - July 2 - 12:42 am

  purchased my 2005 maxima on sept 2004, commuted every day from nj to queens, the commute was long but driving was enjoyable.in 2008 transmission was jerking, was told i needed a new transmission, had to buy a new one from nissan for $3,000 & the piece after the catylytic converter had to be replaced for another $800. car had 108k milesmy mechanic is a nissanmechanic, he told me these trans is not strong enuff for the engine, after 100k miles, th timing chain needs to be replaced, & the gaskets in engine start leaking esp, the one by oil filter. also replace valve cover gaskets, changed new tires, will ride this car to the ground since its paid off, had a good run with this car, will getnext

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  Outstanding - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Driver987 - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Best car for the cash. Ive had no problems, and after 3 years still enjoy driving it. Id buy another in a heartbeat.

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  FUN-TASTIC - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Omar - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I just love this car so much. Great exterior looks at every angle. The interior is equal to a much more expensive luxury car. I have the driver preferred option package with all the bells and whistles except the navi. Im really impressed!

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  Car is outstanding - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By seagrasman - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought an SE with Elite pkge, VDC & sunroof. I love this car! The engine is smooth and powerful. The navigation is a blast, and the fit and finish is excellent. At first I wasnt sure I liked the new style, but when I saw it up close it looked great. The rear spoiler adds to the look. The interior looks better with the navigation than with the standard message screen.

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  EXCELLENT CAR - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By GORD - June 26 - 10:00 am

  EXCELLENT CAR I OWN A 1997 MAXIMA NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEM.A FAMILY SPORTS SEDAN

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  Bettinas "Sassy" - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Bettina Voigt - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I was ready for a performance car with a little luxury and smoother ride. "Sassy" is that car. For the money, she is sweet!

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  Decent car but with mixed reliability - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By wolfinblue - June 23 - 5:53 am

  I bought the car with 64K miles on it, now have 99K. Mixed reliability. Non-major problems indlude: STAINLESS STEEL exhaust has needed replacement. Brakes worked on 3 times. Suspension is on it last leg, but that isnt surprising at near 100K miles. Leather seats are cracking and peeling. Bose sound system is pretty much shot now and needs to be totally replaced according to the dealership. On the plus side, the engine/tranny combo is smooth and powerful. Major mechanicals (engine, trans, etc.) reliabililty has been rock solid. Front and rear seats are VERY comfortable. As long as the major mechanicals hold up, no plans to sell this car any time soon despite the constant minor repairs.

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  LOVE the Maxima - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By sdemsully - June 20 - 10:00 am

  This car is even better than the advertised "4 door body, 2 door soul" that Nissan previously advertised it as. So much fun to drive, it almost sucks to arrive at your destination. Great juice off the line, and even stronger passing power on the highway (and believe me, Ive tested that numerous times!). Bottom line: this car will not disappoint.