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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  This car has get up and go - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By John - August 13 - 3:06 am

  I drive over 45,000 miles a year, my Maxima was purchased 9000 miles ago. Past cars include a 2002 Avalon, 2005 TSX and 2006 TL. These 2010 models were all included in my new vehicle search. During the test drive, the ride did not stand out like the Avalon or the TL, but it wasnÂ’t bad. Both the Acuras I owned before were extremely responsive vehicles and had a great feel for the road. The 6 speed transmission and the quietness of ride stood out for the Avalon, but it was bland. It was really tough to steer away from 2 car manufacturers that proved outstanding reliability in the past. Each of those 3 cars had over 150,000 miles. In the end, I just wanted a change and have no regrets!

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  Im impressed - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Imnion - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought this gem about six week ago and I love driving it. Plenty of power and the sound system (Bose) is outstanding. I got the Super Black with the Black leather interior. When I have this thing clean, it really turns some heads. Especially around dusk, the car looks real sharp. Nay an ounce of any trouble thus far.

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  Avid Nissan Fan - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Michelle - August 11 - 3:46 am

  Ive been a Maxima driver for years, Ive known people that have switched to Nissan after riding or driving my car. I think Nissans are very underrated. They are very relieable and dependable cars. I will never drive anything but a Nissan.

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  Amazing changes for 2009 - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By fletcher1 - August 10 - 5:06 am

  This is a vehicle on par with any Lexus, Infinity, BMW, or Mercedes. The price makes it a better option than any of the latter. It is extremely impressive from both a technology and performance perspective.I purchased an SV with the technology package and I now have a vehicle with better integrated technology than cars which cost up to $20,000 more. Why lease for prestige when you can own the real thing. This car could be the next Nissan classic along with the Z cars. Test drive one and you will get rid of your current so called "Luxury" car. Smooth acceleration, which blows the doors off of sports cars, while riding in the lap of luxury and technology is a winning combination.

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  O2 sensors are a pain - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By mark - August 9 - 9:13 pm

  Bought it in 02 when it came off a lease. I put new BF Goodrich tractions on last year. Even at 6 years old, its fun to toss around. The standard 120 watt stereo(made by Clarion for Nissan) is nowhere near the BOSE but is OK. Dealer service was great. Glad I bought the extended warranty as Ive replaced two O2 sesors and need a third already.

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  safe for my family - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By lex - August 9 - 10:00 am

  i would say that say that this is a all around great vehicle.i like the get up and go feel in it . and theres enough room in the back seat for my childrens car seats and anything that they bring along with them.

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  excellent auto - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By mark foster - August 9 - 10:00 am

  this is my third maxima,and my fifth nissan since 1982,the maximas owned earlier had 190000 miles on them before i sold them,these are excellent cars.i have also owned mercedes,but for service quality and duriability the maxima quality, service and durability is twice that of mercedes.the maxima is truly an excellent auto.

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  The Max is Back ! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By MaxFun - August 7 - 2:30 pm

  After months of research and 3 weeks of test drives the purchase paid off. Before I bought my Silver on Black Max with premium package, I test drove the Acura TL, BMW 325i, Audi A4, Infinity G35, and a few others. The Maxima was not hands down the "better car" in each category, but lets look at what it gives you. Its not as fun as the BMW, not as quick as the G35 (I tested the rear wheel drive). It wont match the interior of the Audi.But, the Maxima comes fully loaded at around $37k. It comes with the technology - excellent navigation system, easy to use interface/layout, cooled/heated seats, gas saver CVT, 290 HP engine, nice leather, quite ride.

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  Japanese BMW - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By PLUMMAN - August 7 - 4:56 am

  Mating the 5-speed with the V-6 engine brings this car to life. I have only hit the rev limiter once, but what fun! This car is fun on the mountain roads and loves to rev. The suspension is a little soft, but comfy. I installed aftermarket spring and shocks. I got mine used with 54k and now it is pushing 120k with no major issues. Runs best on high test gas and gets the best mileage with high test. I get 24 overall. If you can keep the speed to 60-65, doubtful, it will return over 30mpg. Best car Ive ever owned. Still solid after 120k.

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  great - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By jdub - August 5 - 11:23 am

  THis is a great car and it has a great engine