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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  Great Car - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By lwash1212 - May 16 - 9:24 am

  I bought a 08 Maxima about 4 months ago. Driving this car is a blast it has plenty of power and the lack of road noise is incredible. After reading reviews on how horrible this car is on hitting bumps in the road. I came to the conclusion that as long as your not hitting bumps at excessive speeds just like any car its perfect. The design of the exterior is real classy with a sports car feel. The interior is comfortable and there is a few pieces that I think could be made alot better but that comes along with any car. I love the car and the only complaint from me is the turning radius but if youve ever owned a sports car they all are.

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  A really nice car that no one knows about - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Mitch - May 15 - 8:19 pm

  First, Id like to address the one "problem" that all gear heads harp about - the CVT transmission. Its Excellent! No issues whatsoever in driveability or performance. Instant acceleration, no droning, no problems. Very comfortable seats, beautiful interior. The exterior styling is very cool and distinctive, although it may not be to everyones taste. I had a 2015 Acura TLX, 4 cylinder base model before this car. Since I didnt opt for the 6 cylinder TLX, it would unfair to compare acceleration. Could never warm up to the TLX because of the bland exterior and cost cutting. I am most pleasantly surprised by this car. The SV trim has everything you need, except that the standard radio in the SV isnt that good, so if I had to do it again I probably would have gone to the SL which has a better Bose unit (although with the price difference I could go aftermarket with the audio and end up better than the Bose). There are crazy deals going on until the end of February 2017, so hurry up and get one! Leased 36 months, $399/month including tax, no money down except for first month and title transfer, $1,995 cash back to pay off lease on Acura.

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  Nice Car // SE - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Rnelson108 - May 10 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. It is a blast to drive with 255HP and the sport suspension. The fit and finish is great. The only knocks against the car are the things that make it fun. It requires 92 Octane fuel (top 10 ratesd engine). The SE suspension can be little rough (all the more fun to salom between the manholes) The 17" wheels /tires can get a little dicey in the snow. I look for reasons to take the car out.

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  excellent - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By maxima se - May 9 - 7:43 pm

  i love my car this my fifth new maxima that i have owned my first in 1988 they have come along ways since then. i now live in las vegas i drove the car, by myself, from Tuscumbia, Al. had no trouble at all. i have people all the time commenting about how great of a good looking car i have. im proud to be seen driving it. the color is white, interior, tan leather, moon roof the works. im 60 years old and feel 30, what more can i say. good luck to new owners of a se maxima. there,s nothing better. thanks, Linda, Las Vegas

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  The Max - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By R Keister - May 8 - 6:10 pm

  At 150,000 miles, and practically NO mechanical problems, this car is AMAZING! The engine runs like its new. Of course, my penchant for religious maintenance might have something to do with that. Its comfortable, quiet, powerful and all-in-all pleasant to drive. Fuel economy is really good considering the vintage and engine size (3.0L V6) - 21 in town and as high as 28 on trips.

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  Awesome Machine... - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Pranav - May 7 - 8:43 am

  This car is amazing. I had to go with a family sedan, but did not want to sacrfice on the fun factor.... this car fits the bill. I would highly recomend taking a look at this car if you need a 4 door sedan but still like to have some good "drives"

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  great car - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By woodman - May 4 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 4 nissan and have never had a major problem, I put 260,000 on my last Maxima with out a single problem.

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  Sold on Maximas - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By bgrimme - May 4 - 10:00 am

  This car still rides, runs and looks like brand new at 141,000 miles. Its also the most dependable car Ive ever driven. It still has the original exhaust system on it! Besides normal maintance items the only things that Ive had to fix were the A/C and an Oxygen sensor and that was in the last year. The engine doesnt burn or leak oil. The car accelerates hard and tracks straight. Everything works on the car and for the most part there are no squeakes or rattles. Its an incredible car.

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  Sports Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By saini - May 4 - 10:00 am

  Very excellent driving, like a Cheetah. I have the Elite model with navigation system. It has telescopic handle, Auto folding mirrors, all seats heated, beautiful interior and spacious. Many other features not seen in many luxury cars. Worth the money.

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  Older Nissan - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Mike D - April 29 - 5:30 pm

  When I got this car it had about 150000 miles on it. With this many miles it runs as new a the never cars do. I enjoy driving this car. If I new how good it is now I would have gotten on a few years ago.