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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  First Maxima - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Liu - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Just bougnt my first Maxima (GLE) w/roof and front side air bag. Got a good deal and very friendly service at the dealer. Loved it the first time drove it. Quiet and fast! Everyting is easy to control, even the audio controls are built on the steering wheel. Love the trip computer, too, but not the number on when you see your average gas milage.

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  Great Car - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By BTS - October 16 - 1:30 am

  I bought this car in April 05 and have put around 2000 miles of mixed highway and residential driving. I am getting around 25 MPG combined which I am satisfied with. The V6 engine is responsive, acceleration is always there when you need it. 80 MPH at the end of a highway entrance ramp is way too easy to accomplish. The car is very roomy. I am 6-1", 220 lb and I fit comfortably in the drivers seat and also in the backseat with plenty of leg room. The handling is great. The Maxima is rock solid and smooth on the highway, but its great on curvy back roads too. We have gotten numerous compliments on the car from family, friends, and strangers. Great car!

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  Believe the hype - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By weezy - October 15 - 7:53 pm

  I bought a used 05 Max SE in July, black on black with 20,000 miles. For the money I paid, this car has really impressed me. Mine is black with black leather and the 18" chrome wheel package; with aftermarket window tints it looks awesome. Ive gotten tons of compliments on its exterior looks. My complaints with the car are the same as others..wide turning radius, some cheaper-looking interior plastic, etc. However, the car has much more upside than downside. Awesome acceleration, good handling for a car its size, great sound system, and better than expected fuel economy. Overall, a solid option for those looking for a blend of performance, practicality, and style.

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  Love my new Max - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By MaxFan - October 14 - 10:00 am

  Just got a SE a few days ago (my 2nd Max after the 97GLE). Been loving every minutes. Been waiting 2-3 years for it to come out. But was a bit put off by the look in the pics (ugly grill and too big). Well, its so much better in person. Only a few other expensive cars can make me wishing to trade the looks. This Max is above the rest in the look department. If you dont like the grill, get an aftermarket one @stillen.com, it will inprove the look a lot more. I sold the old Max @100Kmiles and everything was still solid and smooth for another 100Kmiles.

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  Sloppy workmanship - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Sadru Dharamsy - October 11 - 8:53 am

  Just picked up our new Maxima 3.5 SV. Looks gorgeous and rides pretty well. We arrived home and noticed the passenger side window malfunctioning (unusual rattling noise). We opted for the tech package also, and that should have included a compact flsh drive. The cover to the flash drive is jammed solid and wont come. We have to drive 150 miles again and take it to the dealership to have it fixed. Will not pay that kind of money for such sloppy workmanship and less than optimum dealership that does not check the car put prior to selling. Who knows what other surprises are awaiting.

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  Very impressive - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By jermey - October 11 - 5:49 am

  I bought my Maxima 3.5 SL on 8/31/15. Love this car there is enough power for a 300hp engine its a blast with putting in Sport mode. It is comfortable with zero gravity seats like panoramic sunroof and LED lights. This car handles well love options and features for a very nice car seems affordable and built to last its kind of reliable vehicle. Its supposed get 30mile per highway I have literally been driving my car for 2,000miles averaged trip computer says 31.4 mpg as check actual fuel economy it gets. The Maxima does look stylish very happy with my new car purchase so outstanding looking the new interior is design better all the quality materials are well-fitted especially worth money in getting this car no issues but keep in mind that its still a new car so can give details but all I know I picked an good looking car.

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  Maxima Man - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By chip.parker - October 10 - 2:25 pm

  I recently took ownership of my 5th consecutive Maxima. the 2017 Maxima Platinum. It is by far better to drive, control and travel in any other car in its class I have driven. The dealership (Browns Dulles, Sterling, Va.) is exceptionally responsive and always goes above and beyond when responding to my needs.

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  My Maxima is falling apart.... - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Peter - October 9 - 2:16 pm

  I brought car used at 40k miles from my Sister - mint condition, California car. Driven mostly 7-8k per year (light). Powerful, smooth, quiet and great for a road trip, but..... The car is fragile! The starter went out at 65k($375 replace), the front strut bearing plates broke at 75k ($750 including struts and labor), the check-engine light came on at 76k (Evaporator system problem ($650), Rear brake calipers slightly locking up due to frozen/corroded parking mechanism ($600 to fix refurb calipers inc labor). I have no clue why the car is falling apart right before my eyes. Im going to trade it soon. Sad, what a powerful and smooth vehicle. :-( Peter

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  A GREAT Sports Sedan - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Regg - October 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my 1st time buying a car and I am VERY impressed with the Maxima. I compared this car to the Acura TL, G35, IS 300, Saab 9-3 Aero, and the Maxima won! This car has every option to keep you comfortable while driving, and performace/handling to make anyone looking at sports sedans very satisified. I chose the Maxima b/c it has the performance of the BMW, the reliablilty of the Acura, the uniqueness of the Saab, and the luxury of a Lexus. This car is just as good any other entry level sports sedan but cost less then $30k.

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  shame on nissan - 2012 Nissan Maxima
  By gemini23 - October 7 - 3:35 pm

  Am leasing 2012 maxima sport after turning in my 2009..Shame on Nissan! The 2009 Maxima was all class inside & out.Appealed to young & old alike. Handling was exceptional as well. I dont know what Nissan was thinking when they changed this once beautiful car.What made the car an eye-catcher,a pleasure to drive and to own is now gone. Smaller interior, no real room for a third person in the back,extremely uncomfortable for rear passengers.Exterior..smaller lights, smaller sloping hood, smaller rear light fin. Smaller everything. No longer catches the eye & no handling improvements (as claimed) that I see.Obviously gearing toward younger generation. What was once a class car in now just a car