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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  Needs better paint - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By mmart157 - February 13 - 10:00 am

  I love this car, overall quality is a 10 easy. Has lots of power and just about every gadget you could need. NissanUsa needs to address the problem with paint chips though. 2 days and I have 20 paint chips down to the primer. My acura has 7 after 4 years in the same driving area. That is pretty ridiculous. Now I have to pay out of pocket to have the hood and bumper re- painted and then add a clear bra. If they could fix that then this would be the perfect car.

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  The "4DSC" Has Returned - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By raven - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Virtually outstanding in every way. Smooth acceleration, Confident handling and braking characteristics. Very steady and sure footed at highway speeds. Quiet spacious interior. Tremendous head and leg room (Im 64).Visibility is excellent throughout. Chose this vehicle over the G-35, because of overall value and styling. The old Z line applies to this car. "AWESOME".

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  Can be improved - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By shrek - February 13 - 9:03 am

  Ive driven this car about 20K miles in 16 months. OEM tires not so good, even though better ones are available for less. The drivers seat clicks when the car turns. The steering wheel vibrates when accelerating and / or stopping hard - takes some fun out of the driving. Fuel economy is very bad in city, though much better on the highway. Car interior uses cheap plastic in some places. That aside, the car has terrific passing power (shoots to 100mph easily) and corners extremely well. Intelligent ignition, heated steering wheel and bose music system are great. Cars exterior design is quite different. Folding rear seats are a plus. Leather quality is also good.

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  a complete package - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By wanda carr - February 13 - 12:16 am

  although the maxima is a sports car it gives you the luxury and comfort of a sedan.

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  2007 Maxima SL - Denver - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By pecsofstl - February 11 - 10:40 pm

  Was hoping for a year end deal on 2006 SL model, but not much inventory was left. Decided to test the 2007 SL and I am very glad I did. A much better ride and nicer car than previous models in my opinion. The CVT transmission is better than advertised. Extremely smooth and responsive, like there is only one gear. The interior has been upgraded over previous models and is comparable to other luxury vehicles I have ridden in. The ride is quiet, very smooth and fast. Consumer reports said this car has "tourqe steer" due to the front wheel drive, etc..etc...I have driven the vehicle for 1000 miles now and I promise you, there is no tourqe steer.

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  I really wanted to like this car! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By mhn - February 11 - 9:33 am

  This car is so much fun to drive. With that said, we have had so many problems with it. The sunroof took 7 tries to repair, the A/C went out, struts replaced, paint is chipping off rear view mirror on the garage door button, rotors are shot, front dash rattles, steering column gets stuck in the upright position, and today my check engine soon light came on. I baby this car and I am a very mild driver. Maybe I just got a lemon, but we are trading it for an Infiniti G35x because they seem to be getting much better reviews. Good luck if you purchase this this vehicle. Hope yours wont be a lemon. I loved driving it, too bad it spends just as much time in the shop as it does on the road. :-(

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  Will Miss IT! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By Stephanie E - February 11 - 7:13 am

  I owned my Nissan for 4 yrs. ABSOLUTELY loved it! I purchased a LOADED SE model & cant complain too much about it. The only down side is the turning radius sucked. As far as reliability, ride, comfort, & performance it was awesome. It set standards that spoiled me that other manufactures dont include in options (heated steering wheel). Although window sticker stated 27 MPG, mine got 25-26 MPG (not too bad - and I dont putt putt around). I recently totaled it, so SAFETY was GREAT! When side air bags deployed no smell or gas filled the interior like others do. This was one of my favorite make/models to own. I will definitely miss this car!

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  Worse Nissan Ever - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By ttranrx - February 9 - 1:50 pm

  Ive had my maxima for 5 years and already have transmission problems. It will cost me $4000 to get a rebuilt transmission which is horrible for a 5 year old car. Will never buy a Nissan for a long time. Would warn anyone buying a Nissan Maxima and for them to google Nissan Maxima and transmission problems.

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  Love my Maxima - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By dmwsky - February 7 - 10:00 am

  This car has great pickup, even at high speeds on the highway. I put 15,000 miles on this car the first 6 months I had it...and it rides like a dream, even at 110 miles per hour.

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  getting a lot of looks - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By mandameyer - February 7 - 10:00 am

  My first Nissan, and I am very pleased. Everyone that gets in raves about what a gorgeos car it is. I got the rear bucket seats, and LOVE them! (As do the kids!) Everywhere we go, people are asking us about it, weve been approache sitting in traffic, in parking lots just about everywhere. All I can say is just take it for a test drive!