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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  Power and Comfort in One!!! - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Pearson - July 3 - 10:00 am

  For the price, this is the best 4 door sports sedan out there. It handles much better than even the most 2 door sports cars on the road to date. You step on it, and that 3.5 liter engine under the hood, throws you into motion so fast, like a fighter jet. Its comfort compares to you being on your living room couch, while taking you to a far away place in no time. ITS FAST!!! Try it, and you will love it.

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  PHATRIDE - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By MOOLAIR - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Love this car. Seats are exceptionally comfortable. Love that all the information is in a centralized location. I have the 6 speed. Like driving a sports car. Only draw back is the very wide radius turn. Power and speed is awesome. Only drawback is the wide radius turn. Can be a bit of a hassle when parking.

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  Marians thoughts - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Paityn - July 3 - 10:00 am

  This is the 3rd Maxima I have owned and the 6th Nissan I have bought. I do enjoy Nissan and I sincerely believe, for the money, a consumer cannot do much better. I love driving my new Maxima. With each one I own, I have more fun. I love the digital dash and being informed of tire rotations and oil changes, which only enhance the life of the car. Great job Nissan!

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  as fun as it looks - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By maximized - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Greatest car I have ever owned.Fun,Fast,and handles like a dream.Once you drive one you will be sold.Bravo to Nissan!!!!!

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  Tough to find a better car for the buck - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By BEMILLETT - July 1 - 10:00 am

  In my experience the 2001 Nissan Maxima SE is a solidly built car. The ergonomics are right on, and the comfort is there. Performance is where it takes the cake. Try to find another make for around $21000.00 (thats what I paid new), that can outperform this car. Not an easy task.

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  shock & awe - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By wall&the goose - June 27 - 7:10 pm

  we found this maxima to have power when needed and also gives a smooth ride when your touring the highways. The car handles very well in icy conditions . its not a strictly sports car , but does hold its own getting onto a highway.

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  family sports sedan - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By pa funk - June 27 - 10:00 am

  Bought it 2 years ago used with 30K miles, and it has been the best car Ive owned. It drives great, and is bombproof as far as reliability. Tight handling and, as it is loaded, a fairly plush ride. The Bose stereo is great!

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  exitement - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By otto v. bismarck - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Just got rid of my GS300 with about the same hp. I got the SE with 17/235/45 Toyos - what a fun car to drive! beautiful interior Negative: turning radius, no memory seats.

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  Bad Resale - Buy it if you want to keep it - 2012 Nissan Maxima
  By don_83 - June 17 - 5:44 am

  I was considering a TSX, TL , Passat V6 and maxima and walked out of the door with $30k for an SV. I thought it was a good deal. I guess not. The car that stickered for $37k is now worth $24k miles with 10k miles on the clock. Its a good car if you want to commute and keep for a while as the car is very reliable, interior materials are above average. CVT is not really responsive until in Ds mode. Seats are good for long drives and offer plenty of room. you get a lot of standard features for $30k . Considering base 3 series and A4 are smaller and slower. Steering feel is very good and precise. spend a little more and get a base TL , better in every way .

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  Best Car EVER - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Kevin - June 15 - 4:53 pm

  I bought my 2001 GLE from a dealer in Minnesota. I bought the car with 113,000 miles for $10,600. This car IS AMAZING!! This car drives like a porsche, and best of all, its affordable. You get a lot of bang for your buck with the 222-horse engine, and the features of this car. The engine is very quiet, in fact you can hear the tires over the engine. The bose 200 watt system is also a great bonus to this car. If you are in the market for a used sedan, the maxima is the only choice. Its powerful, classy, comfortable, and safe. I give this car 2 thumbs WAY UP!!