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:
Showing 1261 through 1270 of 3,122.00-
Excellent - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Quincy - February 26 - 10:00 amThis is my 2nd Maxima the first was a 01 maxima SE, it is by far the best overall car I have had, especially at the price, you get a lot of bang for your bucks. Other high end cars you will spend thousands to add all the options, with this car it was already in place. It is a sweet car, gets looks
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Poor Quality - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Nancy A - February 26 - 10:00 amBuying this car has been a huge disappointment. In the first month the car has been back to dealer multiple times for tire rotation, tire replacement, and lowering air pressure in tires. Car continues to have front end vibration on freeway. I am told that is how Nissan cars are. Glove box not flush when closed. Part on order to repair. This is the first and last Nissan I will ever own. Drive the car over 60 mph before you buy.
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MY SECOND MAXIMA - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By MYTH1977 - February 26 - 10:00 amMy first Maxima was a 2000 model. The car quality, ride and reliability prompted me to by a new 2004 model. The new model is yet 100 times better by means of styling, power, refinement, quality, and over-all increased fun factor of driving. People have broken necks when they see me drive!
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Max Driver - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By Psyko Max Driver - February 24 - 2:00 amThis car is totally great. The handling on this car is excellent. It is very comfortable and roomy. The seats are wide enough to support those of us who are average in size and above. If you want a practical family car with a wild side, this is the car to get. It can smoke all of its competitors at the line. Accords, Camrys, Monte Carlos, Mustangs (except Cobra and Seline), and many others all ate my dust. This cars only flaw is torque steering because it has too much power. But torque steering isnt too bad and you can live with it. All around this car is great for its price. Get the 2003s while they last.You wont regret it.
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Everything Else Is A Minima - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By bent - February 24 - 2:00 amIve owned many cars. Hondas. Nissans. Volkwagens. Compared to the Maxima (this is my second)they are all Minimas.
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Great Car - 2008 Nissan Maxima
By Jada2020 - February 22 - 12:56 pmGreat car! I really like this car tho it could use some refinement. The CVT is one of the best transmissions out (smooth as silk) I will say that the price tag is a bit much for a fully loaded 3.5SL. All in all, I really like my car and will keep it for a few years!
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Fun Driving!! - 2016 Nissan Maxima
By My Max - February 21 - 10:19 pmI was considering the 2016 BMW 328xi. Who wouldnt its a BMW. After doing some serious research the 328xi base model didnt match up to the 2016 Maxima SR. After adding all the bells and whistles I wanted to the 328xi the price tag went from sub 40k to mid 50k. The 2016 Maxima SR was my choice. All those bells and whistles I wanted came standard for a price tag of sub 40k. Navigation, premium sound system, back up camera, sonar sensors, heated seats, heated steering wheel, really cool 19" wheels oh dont forget the 300 horses that make those 19s look even better on the road. Thats just to name a few. Im super excited I decide to go with the Maxima it has everything I wanted plus a few extras. If your looking for more BANG for your BUCK consider the Maxima. Cuddos to Nissan on a job well done!!!
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still a little cheap - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By TwistedPixel - February 18 - 2:00 amThe car is great but when you hit a bump, it doesnt feel much different than my Camaro. It handles exceptionally well, accelerates well, but the bumps get ya. Also, the transmission feels "weak" and seems to stall when shifting.
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The best car for the money - 1997 Nissan Maxima
By Tamer - February 13 - 10:00 amgood looks , great performance , very reliable .
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Great car! - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By NewMaxOwner - February 13 - 10:00 amJust finished putting 1100 miles on my new Max. I traded in a 1998 Audi A4. Though not as nimble due to the lack of independent rear suspension, the Maxima is a fun car to drive with plenty of power and decent handling. How can you go wrong with a 255 hp car that can smoke most other vehicles on the road, yet carry a family of four comfortably? Plus youll get a great deal on a 03 model now that they are trying to push the 04s.
