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 141 through 150 of 3,122.00-
Absolutely Awesome Maxima - 2000 Nissan Maxima
By duke_wa - August 6 - 10:00 amI just purchased this 2000 Maxima GXE used with fairly high mileage and I am so impressed about the quality, power, smoothness and ride of this car! I never realized how beautiful these 2000 models are.
-
quadcamperformance - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By eriktucker - August 6 - 10:00 amI have a Nissan Maxima 2001 SE 5 speed black on black, with a few up grades such as stillen intake, crank pullies, stillen exhaust, progess springs, akebono brakes, stillen strut bars, and advanced timming. I had it up to 152mph at 6100 rpms and it wanted more. I had before this car an Acura Legend 5 speed. I also had a 1990 BMW 525 I automatic. I like the Nissan Maxima by far.
-
Awesome Ride - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By cvflowe - August 6 - 10:00 amI am a first time Nissan Maxima owner and I must say out of all the vehicles I have ever owned this machine is the hottest. The lines are perfect, design is good and the performance makes it one hot family sedan. I can easily become one of those loyal Maxima owners if Nissan keeps pumping them out like this.
-
96 maxima - 1996 Nissan Maxima
By DERRICK - August 5 - 11:16 pmNever had any problems rides like a charm. The 96 could use a few more horses. Well comparing to the news cars, however in 1996 it was excellent. The only thing is lack of cup holders nothing major.Nothing I can really complain about
-
Nissan Maxima SE - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By 2003Nissan Maxima - August 4 - 2:06 amProblem free car---rides smooth-shifts real easy into drive--driver seating adjustable and comfortable--you must adjust to the turning radius of the car which can easily be done--speed pickup is remarkable when needed-trunk room is morethan generous-have one minor key scratch on trunk to be repaired--cost about $150
-
Nice Value - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By John Dillon - August 3 - 2:00 amNice solid, reliable vehicle. I had a 200o Accord Coupe, and am much happier with the Maxima - more room and quieter.
-
excellent car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By DavidSch - August 3 - 2:00 amIm in love with my Maxima 3.5L
-
Great Car - 2000 Nissan Maxima
By suzie - July 31 - 12:26 pmI bought this car 12/20/99. This car has been one of the best cars I have had. I have over 200,000 miles. Took it in today thinking I would have to buy a new car and it only needs the fan replaced and transmission servicing. I have had a problem with the tires wearing out quickly and an issue with keeping tires balanced. Slight vibration in the front. A little small for my husband but perfect for me. Passenger seat could have more seat adjustment capability
-
Much better than expected - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By D.M. - July 29 - 11:13 pmWeve had our Maxima for approx. 1 month and wow! We looked at the Accord, TSX, Avalon, and the Infiniti G35. The Maxima is almost exactly like the G35 but for a few thousands less, the Accord was just too boring. The Maxima has exceeded all my expectations. The leather is top notch (black interior), the satellite radio is great, the engine power should be in a vehicle that costs thousands more, etc.
-
Bad Ass Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By C Walker - July 29 - 10:00 amThe 04 Maxima SE 6M is truly a jewel to own. My first Maxima was a92 and I loved it. This one is 33% more powerful with a six speed and looks like a car that rivals the good looks of any car in its class. Many thanks to Nissan for the concept on this one.
