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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  You kidding me!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Mike G. - March 31 - 10:00 am

  This car is great! This car has more hp then most V8s. For the price there is not a better car. I drove the TL and the ES300 and this car performs better then both. Alot of bang for your buck!

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  GLE Review - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By n1west - March 31 - 10:00 am

  The GLE Maxima is a well built 4 door sedan. After owning a 99 Maxima and now a 2002 Maxima Im still concerned that the bose spearkers are to powerful for the doors. There seems to be some vibration coming from the door panels. Also, I was a bit disappointed to see that my Maxima is averaging around 19.7 miles per gallon. Considering the day we live in, this is lousy MPG performance.

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  I love my Maxima! - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Hillary - March 31 - 2:00 am

  I love my Maxima! I hope my next car purchase is a Maxima!

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  Sexy Monastery - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By Kena Ohea - March 31 - 2:00 am

  THis is the best V6 you can get out of a car before the millenium. It also has a great bose system and you can go cross country with this baby.

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  2001 Nissan Maxima SE - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By johnvent - March 31 - 2:00 am

  My 2001 Maxima SE has been an excellent vehicle. The engine is great, build quality and comfort are top notch. I love driving this car!

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  2016 Maxima SL - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Tom L - March 29 - 10:23 am

  My car is only 3 weeks into the lease and it already requires an entire new sunroof. When filling up the tank to full it estimates 400 miles and after 3 full tanks Ive only got an average of 250 miles a tank. I mostly drive highway and and havent even used sport mode. I am disappointed a brand new car has such a serious defect right off the lot and may not have myou car for a few weeks.

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  Beautiful car, noisy ride - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Rose - March 28 - 10:06 am

  I love the look of the car. Its very roomy, and has alot of great features. Love the headlights, quad exhaust, telescope wheel and Nav system. However, I am very disappointed with road noise. You can hear and feel every crack in the road. My husbands pickup is a much quieter ride. Some people say they love the quiet, smooth ride. I dont have that. Is there something wrong with my car, or is it just me. I had a Lincoln Mark VIII which gave a very stiff ride, but MUCH quieter. Paid 26,000 for the Max, used, and 18,000 for the Lincoln when it was 2yrs old. For the money spent on the Max, I expected to ride a lot quieter.

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  Great Car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Dan - March 26 - 2:20 am

  Ive had this car for a little over 3 years. It has been a great car. I change the oil every 3-4 K and it just keeps on going. I have never had anything major go with this car. You keep up with the regular maintenance and it keeps going strong. I hope to drive this car for many more years. Its traditional looks will always look cool.

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  Maxes the competition - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By nam - March 26 - 2:00 am

  A search driven by value, performance, and legacy led me to only one car - the Maxima SE. While not an overly aggressive driver, it is nice to know that this car can quietly spank just about any on the road. The features are ample without being overdone and the int/ext design are subtle and sophisticated. Though I tend to purchase a car driven solely by my own tastes, Ive never received so many compliments as this dark blue beauty. It is a blast to drive everyday without overexerting the pocketbook.

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  Perfection is called "maxima" - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Burgeson - March 23 - 4:23 am

  In these times of high gas prices, the Maxima is the way to combine perfect performance on the gas meter and the spedometer. A wonderful ride, and great standard sound system. The only automatic car a "stick" driver would love. Pick up is amazing!