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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Did I get a good deal? - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By ChrisATL - March 25 - 2:00 amJust bought new 03 SE ....traded in 99 SE. Paid 22000+TX for a base 03 SE. A fellow Maxima lover
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One of the best cars for the price - 2012 Nissan Maxima
By bettercheddar - March 24 - 2:40 pmDidn’t plan on buying a Maxima. I looked at it because a friend who owned one said I should. Couldn’t get it out of my head after I took a long test drive. It was a fun car to drive – really fun! The engine sounded great as soon as it turned over. Moving through traffic was effortless. All I had to do was press on the accelerator and the car went as fast as I needed it to go. There’s more than enough power to move this car and it’s got the handling so that you’re always in control. It’s also very comfortable. The interior is put together so that the controls are where you expect them to be. They’re handsome and easy to operate too. Seat is firm and comfortable. Go see one for yourself.
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Winner - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By jma - March 24 - 2:00 pmThe GLE sedan is super! The ride is not a Buick Lesabre ride, but it is comfortable and handles more like a sports car. I get more compliments on this car than any other Ive ever had.
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What did I get myself into - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Innocent1 - March 23 - 9:33 amI have always wanted to own a Max so I bought one. The first issue was the grille started to peel. The rims bent. The tires have to be balanced more often that 6k miles. It drives well though, I cant complain. It has excellent take off. The fuel economy is horrible!
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Three is a Charm - Part 2 - 2010 Nissan Maxima
By Third Timer - March 22 - 4:16 amCurrently. 7500 miles & 10 weeks in service. I wrote my first review just after I had taken delivery of my car around may 25,2010. Here are some longer term impressions. First, the CVT transmission is something you have to get used to. Read the instruction Manual to fully explore its functionality and performance! Second, you do not need to use synthetic oil! Regular 5w-20 is all that is required. Only 2009 models required the fully synthetic oil. If the dealer tells you otherwise, call Nissan! He is lying! Third, this car is built more solidly than any I have ever owned! Fourth, you can get over $6000 of the msrp without even trying! This is a great car!
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The Car to Drive - 2000 Nissan Maxima
By maxgle33 - March 19 - 10:00 amThis Max is my third, and they keep getting better. Ive yet to have a problem with the car, and driving in Dallas, Im thrilled with the acceleration in traffic and the quick cool down of the A/C. The only maintenance has been routine - its the best value for the money.
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The best car ever, that is under valued. - 1997 Nissan Maxima
By Big - March 19 - 10:00 amI love my 1997 Max! It is the first new car I have ever bought and have had no problems ever. Everything is stock except minor maintenace like belts, brakes, tires and I have driven over 108,000 miles. I bought the GXE model in a 5 speed. She looks great and I have never had a problem out of her. Even today when most cars come with more than the 190HP in this model Max, I still smokem at the light. If you are looking for a car with all the anemities, even better power in the newer models, reliable and attractive, the Maxima is the best bet. Forget about Honda and Toyota, they cant touch the Nissans.
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Danno - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Danno - March 19 - 10:00 amlike style looks ride and performance
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Very Happy!!!!!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By rsqrob - March 19 - 10:00 amOrdered the car from Nissan and got exactly what I wanted. SL in spirited bronze with driver preferred package and sunroof. I amm a big person and the car is very comfortable. Even the backseats. Made for long road trips. Planty of power to pass those rubber neckers on the highway. Can get you into trouble with the local police if you dont use cruise control.
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2004 Maxima GL - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By jackconly - March 19 - 10:00 amWe have never before owned a car that turned so many heads. Strangers will come up to us and say, "nice car." The interior is as elegant as a Mercedes and definitely a step above the 2000 model, which was our last car.
