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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  Fun but could be better! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By FlyinginRaleigh - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Great styling, power, handling, and better than expected fuel economy. Radio quit playing CDs after 3 months, but was replaced without hassle by dealer. Nav system is good, but was 2 yrs out of date at purchase and costs $180 to update from vendor - not Nissan. Tires wore very unevenly and cupped - lots of noise and vibration after just 15k miles and at $250 apiece to replace its a major annoyance. Tire places say it was because the alignment was not correct at delivery and so I went 10k without knowing. Any decent level of bass in the sound system causes all kinds of plastic to rattle in the interior. Nav system display and dash are dust magnets.

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  Worst Maxima Ive Owned - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By ABL - September 7 - 7:00 am

  There is no denying that this car is beautiful and fast, that is why I bought my third Maxima. I bought this car new (a left over) from the dealer on a Tuesday, Thursay it was back b/c of a terrible SHIMMY in the wheel. They balanced the tires, STILL NOT FIXED, changed all tires,new brakes, STILL NOT FIXED . Back to dealer four times, can not fix problem, basically told me I was crazy. Then altinator went, took them 1 mon. to get part. Drove a rental. SO VERY DISAPPOINTED with car and dealer. Now I read all of these reviews and I wish I read them before I bought this car because It should be fun to drive and IT IS NOT. I HATE MY CAR.. I hope this helps people...Nissan USA no help

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  Coulda been great, but... - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By laslo - September 6 - 7:46 pm

  Bought in 2004 & loved it at first. Great pick up, good mileage & got compliments on the appearance. But too many reliability problems beyond usual maintenance... replaced coils, MAF, starter, front springs, shifter solenoid, and rear calipers so far. Afraid that O2 sensor and cat converter are next. Power seat motor died. Lots of rattles and squeaks - sounds like an aging taxi.

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  My awsome car!!! - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By roland m - September 4 - 7:00 pm

  I love my maxima. I owned a 99 and it was awesome as well, so i just had to buy another one. My maxima hasnt given me any problems so i am fully satisfied. As any mass production items there is bound to be several glitches so we cant expect them all to be perfect, thank you nissan!!!

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  excellent car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By gadgeeets - September 3 - 10:00 am

  fun to drive,very quick

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  04 Maxima SE Lewisburg,PA. - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Allison Corl - September 3 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car to drive. It handles confidently, and a pleasure to drive on winding highways. Power is very adequate, acceleration teriffic. Torque steer hasnt been a problem.

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By JOEM87 - August 31 - 2:00 am

  THIS CAR HAS IT ALL, I JUST TRADED IN MY 02 LEXUS IS300 AND THIS CAR IS SO MUCH MORE FOR THE MONEY aLSO MUCH BETTER IN THE SNOW

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  Not Missing My G35x - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Jon - August 30 - 1:20 am

  With the lease expiring on my 2007 G35x, I replaced it with a new 2010 Maxima SV with Premium and Tech packages. The G was a great car, but, especially given its much lower "real world" lease price, the Maxima is better in every way except for higher speed handling on curvy roads. The Maxima is a smoother, quieter highway cruiser that is just as fast as the G, and has far more luxury features for the money.

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  Nissan Maxima Brakes, ABS, Floorboards, Sunroof, Nissan Corporate, Faulkner Harrisburg, Star Nissan Greensburg - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By lilliasea - August 29 - 10:54 am

  I purchased a 2004 Nissan Maxima after extensive research as a left over in January 2005. The car was garaged 95% of the time and serviced by the dealership until the warranty expired. Traveling from South Carolina to Pennsylvania, the ABS and Brake lights illuminated. Standard brakes were still operational subsequently I drove the car to the Faulkner dealership in Harrisburg. Here the mechanics determined there was a fault code indicating an entire ABS replacement. They also found rust on the floorboards under the front wheel wells. Add this to a sunroof motor failure just days prior to the ABS brakes failing. Stranded in Harrisburg I did a little research and quickly identified a TSB on Maxima brakes. Nissan owners posted on this subject frequently as well as rust under the floorboards and sunroof failure. I shared my findings with the dealership when they called to announce the nearly 5K in repairs needed for the Maxima. The Faulkner dealership then directed me to call the Nissan Corporate Customer Assistance. I explained the situation and that the car was indeed 8 years old but had merely 60K miles most of which were highway. The interview process was consistent from the dealership to the customer service representative to the final mediator. I realized I was repeating information on the car for three days. The global narrative included; • The car received regular maintenance from the Star Nissan Dealership (I would not recommend this dealership) • The Star Nissan Group sold and maintenanced the car until warranty expiration. • The Star Nissan mechanics failed to notice any of these issues even though they had the car on the rack for 10 days repairing the air conditioning just five months prior. • I personally detailed the car four to five times a year—washed the undercarriage as well. The day before Thanksgiving the corporate mediator, Glenda, called to announce Nissan would not be providing any repair assistance. Unfortunately, I was also very ill and lacked the energy to pursue the matter. It was essential to repair the brakes so I could make it home and get to a doctor. It is important to know that I loved this car. I selected every option and waited until I found a black on black fully loaded Maxima. This car was serviced more than any other vehicle I have owned. From the 261 lb/sqft torque to the responsive engine this car made me happy…..until it didn’t. As it turns out, we had a dysfunctional relationship. I gave and gave and Nissan left me sitting. If you have read this and still purchase a Nissan and especially a Maxima remember you were warned.

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  The Best Maxima Yet - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By moondan1 - August 29 - 7:30 am

  I have been leasing new Maximas every 3 years since 1996 (except for 2006 when I opted for the V6 Altima) and the 2009 SV is the best one yet. For the money, it is the best FWD sports sedan available. It is extremely powerful, the CVT is very smooth (although opting to drive in the "S" or "Manual" modes allows you to feel as though the engine is shifting gears), and provides a nice balance between sporty handling and comfort. Based on Edmunds review (which I am in complete agreement with), I did not get the Sport package and am perfectly happy without it. I have been disappointed with Nissans treatment of the Maxima these past few years, but am thrilled that for 2009 they nailed it!