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 1281 through 1290 of 3,122.00-
I hate this car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Nacole Gusler - February 5 - 10:00 amI bought my car brand new and have had nothing but trouble since. Sunroof opens by itself, window motor has been replaced several times, major transmission problems, replaced brakes several times, replaced axles, struts wheel barrons and calibers. This is just the beginning of my list. I hate this car, I will NEVER buy another Nissan due to this. This is the worst experience i have ever had with a car, and the dealership has never been very helpful. Told them about my transmission and their response was stuff happens. too bad it happens to most or all 2004 nissan maximas and nothing will be done about it!
-
Excellent vehicle - 2007 Nissan Maxima
By bb - February 5 - 2:10 amBest value for the money. The CVT is great, drives like a dream with no shifting jerks.
-
THE ULTIMATE CAR - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By CAJJUN5 - February 1 - 2:00 amNOTHING BUT JOY AND MAXIMUME POWER. YOU GOT GET THIS CAR. THE BEST SPORTS AND LUXURAY COMBINED.
-
Me & My Max - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By Papa1947 - January 26 - 5:16 pmJust got back from a two week, 2500 mile vacation in my Maxima. What an absolute pleasure this car is. Loaded with all the "bells & whistles" and then some, she performed every task I threw at her. From Interstate driving to finding my way through small towns, the GPS was invaluable, the dual climate control very much appreciated, and the entertainment system was incredible. The power drivers seat allowed me to change up positions to help with driver fatigue, and the 300 hp engine provided all the power we needed for passing and high speed Interstate driving.
-
Great Car - 1998 Nissan Maxima
By Ade Soudan - January 25 - 2:50 pmIve had to cars in my life. My 2 car ownership history spans from 1994 to present (2008). I had a 1988 Acura legend that I bought in 94 with 60000 miles. I got the 98 Max in Nov 99 with 30k in mileage. Im at 253k now in June 08. No major issues. Periodic tune-ups and regular oil, trans fluid and coolant changes. A great car.
-
max1 - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By dom - January 25 - 2:00 amalot of options for the money the powerful engine and outstanding handling are what stand out the most in this well crafted machine
-
great car with one snag - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By chris stennett - January 21 - 10:00 amthis is a beautiful car with a bit of european touch this is my first max and Im impressed as I usually buy BMWs, however there is one drawback the horsepower seem too high for a front wheel drive in other words if you should floor the pedal from a stopped position(eg a red light or highway on ramp without a mergge)youd better hold on with both hands because itll pull to the sides ,I think a rear wheel or four wheel drive would perfect handleing.other than that i would sell my BM and buy another.
-
So far so good - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By stealthtwinturbo - January 20 - 9:30 amWe got this can in Nov 2004. So far no sig. problems. Weve had the steering wheel shake that everyone is complaining about, but it is tolerable. Performance is great. Should have a LSD or be AWD with as much power it has. If you shut off the TC, the car just smokes the tires! Lots-o-torque steer. Navigation is fun, but difficult to use. Sirius sat radio is alright, but we are used to an add on unit in the old car and this cars sat radio just does not compare to the features of the stand alone unit.
-
Eating Oil - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By coyote - January 20 - 6:46 amPurchased the car new in 2002, fun car to drive initially.6 speed gear box and acceleration can get you in trouble with law enforcement.I have owned car for 8 years and had little or no problems.Problems began at 120k, electric cooling fans out,power plug cig lighter quit working,car started making a clacking noise that sounded fatal.Car towed to shop, found low oil on stick , noise from lifters clattering due to electronic timing off and air in system due to low oil. Car maintained meticulously with Mobil 1 syn 5w30 reg change.Repaired and back to normal. Happened again same problem.Car eating oil, no smoke or serious leaking. Mechanic friend chk pcv, stuck on Saturn and ate oil.I have to ck
-
Absolutely fantastic! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By Stephen Kowalchuk - January 20 - 2:26 amThis car is a terrific performer! Road feel is fabulous, incredible power, comfortable driving position, nice control layout. The 6-speed manual epitomizes "fun to drive". Only drawback -- torque steer. Jump on the accelerator and you better be holding onto the wheel. Everything else is practically perfect.
