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 1441 through 1450 of 3,122.00-
Nissan Maxima Excellent Buy ! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Jahara751 - July 22 - 10:00 amI have had my Nissan Maxima for a year now and think I could not have made a wiser choice. This is my first brand new car and the decision was a tough one. I finally decided to settle on one because my Sister had purchased one brand new in 1997 and still owns it and has little maintainance other than whats typical. I can not tell you the number of compliments I still receive on it! I have made trips back and forth from my new home here in Dallas to Atlanta, Georgia and to Shreveport Louisana and its the most comfortable trips Ive ever made. Luxury at a great cost! I would recommend it to anyone!
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2000 Nissan Maxima - 2000 Nissan Maxima
By alan from California - July 21 - 10:30 pmI bought my 2000 Maxima used @ 39000 miles. Fell in love with it right away because of the smoothness of the ride and power of the VQ engine that has 222 hp. Good choice in getting the factory extended warranty because the ignition coils and MAF sensor needed to be replaced after I used an 89 octane gas. The engine knocks if you use gas less than 91 octane. Handling is inspiring on winding roads. Bumpy for some but expected for a car with sports tuned suspension per factory description. I wasnt impressed with the Bose stereo so I replaced the system.
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Lots of suspension problems, no help!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Phil - July 21 - 8:06 pmI am only 25 so this was the first car I ever purchased. Since about 3 months into owning the vehicle I have had a squeak in my left front end and popping in my right front end on turning and acceleration. While I do love the style and looks of the car I have a feeling down the line I am going to have some expensive repair bills due to poor quality in the build of the vehicle. I was told after my warranty expired they are starting to find problems in the front end, I asked Nissan Corp. for help and was told my car is out of warranty there was nothing they could do.
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Traded my 2014 Mustang for the all new Maxima!!! - 2016 Nissan Maxima
By Gina - July 19 - 10:43 pmThis car is awesome inside and out! I wasnt really looking to trade out of my beloved 2014 Mustang until I saw this car online. Then I went for a test drive and was blown away. I had to have it! Nissan has done a superior job with redesigning the 2016 Maxima! For those of you in need of a sedan at a great price that comes well equipped in all models and yet still gives a sporty look and feel, this is the one to buy!
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Sweet, Sweet, Sweet - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By ppra - July 19 - 2:00 amJust purchased 2003 Nissan Maxima and so far am extremely pleased. Fun to drive, great to look at and Nissan reliability. Only had for about a month and fuel mileage seems a bit low but have not had it on the highway yet.
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take it easy lauding this car - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By bfb242 - July 19 - 2:00 amLease was up on my 2000 Chrysler 300M and I wanted a manual transmission and could not afford a BMW, so I got the Maxima. Calling this car comfortable is a joke. The suspension is like you are riding on bricks. The cabin room is unacceptable. I guess I should have stuck with more of a luxury car like a Buick, Chrysler or Caddy-even if I had to put up with poor reliability. Oh how I lone to be back in my 300M.
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Love Hate - 1998 Nissan Maxima
By dizizbex24z - July 16 - 3:00 pmI have a dark green maxima. I really love my car but it keeps presenting me with problems. One thing I really hate that ive found on at least 2 other maximas is that the back of the car always sways from side to side when I hit a bump. I dont like other people driving it because I dont know if they know how to handle it. I also added green lights in the footwell and they look Nice.
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My (wifes) new car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Rod Johnson - July 14 - 10:00 amAwsome car! This is the first front wheel drive car I have ever purchased and thats because it is the only front wheel car I have ever driven that didnt drive like a front wheel drive car. I have always disliked the torque steer commonly associated with FWD. Handling is great, the ride a bit firm, but we much prefere firm to mushy. We would highly recommend this car to anyone.
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Maxima fan - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By Mark3092 - July 13 - 2:00 amGreat car. Bought in November of 2001. I have put 36,000 miles on it since. Not a single problem. Plenty of power, and fun to drive with the 6- speed.
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Great Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By zipred - July 13 - 2:00 amI have owned Audi, Volkswagon, Honda, Lincoln and many more, none offer the power, comfort, style and features of the new Maxima. I had previously owned a 96 Maxima and loved it but this one is special.
