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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  Cant wait to get back in my car! - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By itskristine - September 15 - 6:06 am

  Ive always been a huuuuuuge fan of the Maxima. I was orginally going to get my ultimate baby, the 98 Max, but my mother told me she would rather I have a new car given the fact that I work and am in collge. I wasnt going to turn it down! Granted I just got the car, but I love it! The best decision I could have made!

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  Do not buy this vehicle - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By 04MaximaForSale - September 13 - 9:33 pm

  This is the 4th Nissan I have owned and you can bet it WILL BE MY LAST! I bought it because I thought it would be fun and sporty, while still luxurious and comfortable. However, none of that is any good if youre too worried about breaking down to drive it! I have put 30k miles on this car and have had nothing but problems with it the entire time. In 2yrs, its been in the shop for the Clutch (twice!), Transmission, Struts, power windows, gas tank, front axle, engine mount, and the stereo. I was just informed that the Bose stereo unit on this car has failed and Nissan refuses to fix it. Only 2 yrs old and the radio fails? Not only that, to replace it will cost me just under $1000. Disappointed!

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  maxima - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By jason t - September 12 - 10:00 am

  good car but many small annoying things

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  Third Maxima for me - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By dcowan - September 10 - 4:00 pm

  The 2005 Maxima is my third, and its the best of the three so far (1998 GXE, 2001 SE 20th Ann, 2005 SE 5A). The good: Roomy, comfortable, quick off the line, decent gas mileage, awesome sound system, dont need to take a headroom-eliminating sunroof, very quiet ride. The bad: its slippy in the snow - snow tires seem to be required and that means great expense, back seat not great for tall friends due to roof slope.

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  The best car to-date I have owned. - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Rick Martinez - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Excellent all-around vehicle. Great for all kinds of drivers whether you like speed, comfort, ride, performance, efficiency, comfort and quality. No manufacturer problems and smooth engine without surprises no matter how fast you drive it. The speed governor was unwelcome but I guess it helps bring down the price of insurance.

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  Fantabulous Vehicle! - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Barbara Sharp - September 4 - 7:45 am

  This car drives like a dream. The power is superb and handling is wonderful. It is a bit difficult to get in and out due to the low seating; but I can deal with it. Wish it had a better/more USB and/or phone charger ports available in the front compartment and one or more in the back seat.

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  Good value, fun car - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By realhawker - September 4 - 6:00 am

  I was leaving my 2007 9-3 Saab, looking for something with more rear room, bigger trunk and a little more tech features. Looked at the Infiniti G37xS sedan, which was everything I wanted, except that I really wasnt in love with its exterior looks, and the rear seat was not that much roomier than my Saab. I also looked at the Hyundai Genesis, which was very interesting, but I just wasnt a fan of the center console, the pricing I was getting and the fact that I would be telling people I had a Hyundai for $500 a month. Maxima ended up being the best balance, although I would have preferred the 7sp and extra horsepower of the G37

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  Awesome - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Christie - September 2 - 5:43 pm

  Love the power, CVT transmission. Im a first time Maxima owner and Love it!! Very fun to drive and absolutely no complaints regarding the handling, power nor looks!! Only pesky issues is the view from rear view window and there are a couple of parts in the interior a little cheap and flimsy and the head rests are a bit too forward and after reading other reviews I now know its not just me having a little difficulty trying to park. Other than that the car is beautiful and cannot believe how fun it is to drive. way to go Nissan!

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  Recall Please - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Blu one - September 1 - 6:36 am

  These cars have some real problems. Only have 1700 miles, and when the accelerator is pressed it sometimes does not go. This is a serious problem and if you have one you need to take it to the dealer.

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  So far so good... - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Maximagirl48 - August 31 - 6:20 am

  I have had this car for only a week now, but very impressed! I traded in a 2002 Max which I loved. I am falling in love all over again with the 2008! The CVT needs time to get used to but nonetheless shifting is a smooth transition. I have had no problem with the car staying in line. I love all the bells & whistles such as the heated seats & steering wheel, HID lights, Bluetooth, compass, large roomy trunk & interior, information center, & plug-in capability. It appears to like the mid-grade gas as opposed to the regular (much smoother). Havent tried the premium in it yet. Luxury & sport at a reasonable price-you cant beat that! As I get more miles on this I will update with fuel mileage.