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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  Almost an Infiniti - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Picky - January 19 - 4:40 pm

  I have 8k miles on my SE and though it took some time to bond with it, I truly enjoy driving it. Once you accept this is a fwd car (and will never handle like a rwd car) its probably one of the better handling large fwd cars out there, especially under $40k. Suspension is tight in the corners and smooth on the straights. 3.5L engine provides fantastic performance but could easily be higher if Nissan didnt have to worry about competing with their Infiniti line. CVT (continuously variable transmission) is quite remarkable. Feels like it always gears the vehicle down for better performance, especially at higher speeds. 50 to 100 mph feels more like 350hp with the CVT. A special ride indeed.

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  What a beaut! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By sweet"un - January 15 - 10:00 am

  At 6000 miles I havent found a flaw yet. Ive gotten 28 mpg on hwy and 24 city with regular gas. Get raves from friends and strangers all the time. With the drivers preferred package I got all the bells and whistles I have always wanted. Glad I got the SL for a little more comfort.

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  disappointment - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By ASG - January 15 - 10:00 am

  had a 95 Maxima-best car I ever owned. Expected the same with my new 2004 Maxima. But, oh boy, what a disappointment. Drives like a truck, handles like a used Buick (no offense Buick owners), very poor gas mileage, auto trans and brakes erratic, poor interior ventilation, uncomfortable arrangement of seat, dash controls and steering wheel. Has a fine, powerful engine and may be fun to drive on highway, but in real-life everyday driving its only mediocre.

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  2004 Maxima SL 3.5 - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By DrABCMan - January 14 - 7:26 pm

  I have really enjoyed driving this car for the past 18 months. I have had no problems and the dealers routine service has been very efficient. The car is roomy front and back. I enjoy the heated steering wheel and seats. Great acceration, I can feel the torque in the steering. The Bose Sound System is enjoyable. Good gas milage. The Leather Heated Front and Rear Seats & Steering Wheel add to comfort. I enjoy the powered options: Moonroof, Heated Mirrors, Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel, Rear Window Sunshade, Driver Seat w/Memory and Retractable Mirrors.

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  Squeaky Driver Seat - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Perfecto - January 13 - 4:26 pm

  Just bought a 2017 Maxima S at Virginia Beach and 2 weeks later the driver seat started to squeak. The spring in the back area makes so much noise it gets annoying. Every time I move, turn, back up and getting off the car I can hear the springs squeak. I had it serviced at the dealer yesterday and was told they could not do anything about it because it is an a safety issue which to me is a bunch of bull crap. Furthermore, they compared it to another new car and that too makes the same squeaky noise. Is this a design flaw? At any rate I left very frustrated that nothing was done and no resolution offered. So for those thinking about buying a maxima, think twice. Either that or start using ear plugs!!

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  2004 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Charles Minauskas - January 12 - 5:00 pm

  Nice Ride and power.

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  fun on the road - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By maxlover - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned or driven couple of dozen cars over the last 20 years including Mercedes Se400, Brougham, Bentley etc.Maxima is not yhe most powerful or luxuriuos, but when it comes to quility, craftmanship, comfort or reliability itll hold its own against any. Its a great drivers car thats fun, fun, fun to drive

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  Its just a great car! - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Guy18 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  This has been and continues to be the most dependable vehicle I have ever owned...and I have owned alot. I purchased this car pre-owned at my dealers recommendation. He did me a great service! If you need a great vehicle, this is it!! I have not spent a dime on this car except for oil changes and brakes. Id get another one in a heartbeat!

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  What a car! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By tidefan1957 - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Shopped in the mid-size sedan market for about two years. Bought the Maxima and couldnt be happier with the car. It is as advertised and then some. A stylish car with a fantastic ride and lots of power from the 265 horse v-6. You cannot go wrong with this car.

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  Nice Car - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Ken - January 9 - 8:20 am

  I was looking for a car with a little glitz and spunk. Very roomy, very comfortable and can get out of the way when needed. Saved $5k over the G37. It may not be a G37, but its close enough.