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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  Made A Good Choice - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By G.B. - December 22 - 4:36 am

  I looked at alot of options from the 300, A6, Altima, and Acura. All had nice style and ride, but as price went up I didnt see much of an increase in luxary. My dealer gave me a flat out price of $29500 for the Maxima SL w/ Navi and all the perks. I feel like Im riding in a really well styled car with great power and smooth handling. Could not be happier.

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  Bad Transmission - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Dave - December 20 - 3:03 am

  I really like this car however the CVT transmission has a flaw. It sometimes will not take off from a stop and the main problem with that is it just happens no warning signs or anything. Could be very dangerous if you pull out in traffic expecting your car to move and it decides not to! Car is at the dealership now with them trying to figure what is wrong. This car scares me and I only hope Nissan can assure me they have it fixed! It seems that this is a problem Nissan has had with the CVT for a while. I would not buy one until Nissan can prove the problem has been solved!

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  What a Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Quick Review - December 18 - 10:00 am

  First time buyer of Nissan and Maxima. I have been driving new Fords for 20 years, wont be going back. Love the car, love the ride. Smooth, quiet, comfortable and powerful when you need it, what more could you ask for? Try it out you wont be disappointed for the price.

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  Max THe BEAST!! The Best Car EVER - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By Frederick Arthur P-K - December 17 - 7:30 am

  I got this car from an auction. It drives well, Spacious and the features are comparable to that of an E-class. I bought this car because it was the right balance between a luxury and an everyday car. The car looks great especially with the 18" chrome with black leather interior on black ext. It would have been nice if they got rid of the handbrake, included an mp3 player with AUX, an automatic trunk shut system. Very noisy if music not on blast, suspension is a bit rough bt I love this car. And dnt regret one bit! If you are looking at buying this car, go all out, and get all options other than that get an ALTIMA..

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  Outstanding Machine - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Tupdog12 - December 13 - 7:50 am

  This is one heck of an automobile. I purchased an 09 Maxima in May of 09 and put 18,000 miles on it in 6 months (all pleasure). My ego & love for this automobile got the best of me so I purchased a new 2010 Maxima equipped the same way (Nav & Sport pkg.)and even maintained the same white color. The performance is fantastic and despite other comments, I love the CVT. Boy!! It is smooth. The engine has just enough growl and fuel mileage is acceptable considering what you are driving.(22/23 overall) Based upon my experience with a 2009 Murano dual moonroof, I do not recommend the premium package (dual moonroof) until Nissan is able to develop a moonroof wind deflector. Too much wind noise.

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  2000 Maxima SE - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Jeff - December 12 - 8:23 pm

  The only problem in owning a 2000 Nissan Maxima is that you will be spoiled horribly and unable to accept any sedan that doesnt have the combination of power and agility with the reliability of the Nissan name. One other area of concern - speeding tickets. The engine in this car loves to run, sort of like a young barely tame horse that wants to prove something every day! Make sure that you get a good radar detector to go with the automobile, or maybe a good attorney.

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  Cool Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Nissan_guy - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I just love this car....its a marriage of Power(265HP) and luxury in its class. Fully loaded car more less than 30 K ...cant beat that....

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  Updated review - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By adrian pineda - December 8 - 4:33 pm

  I bought this car four months ago. It has relieved me from driving my 2007 IS 350 out of leased miles. The real MPG is about 25 mpg hwy and Im not an agressi. It is roomy and well-built. The engine has lots of power and a reasonable amount of torque. The quality of the leather is above average. Its nice to see that all the electric features still work @ 112k Mi. The ride is stiff thus noisy but not unlivable, I think it needs shocks. The color is a pearl white and it has aged gracefully. The 02 Maxima is a great solution for people who need to commute but dont like to drive smaller cars and still get mid 20s per gallon.

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  Love my 2001 Maxima GLE! - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By xrichardx - December 8 - 12:15 am

  WONDERFUL car! I bought it used in July, 2003 after literally months & months of research. You may not believe me, but I now have almost 170,000 miles on it, and there is NOT EVEN ONE RATTLE while driving! Its computer chip went out at about 150,000 miles, but I found a good used one online for about $250. And that is the only time it did not fire up and go. It has been extraordinarily reliable. Had to get seat covers for the leather seats, but the Texas sun where I live eats up leather seats on any car. I replaced the drivers seat at about 140,000 miles because two of the power motors in it went out, and it was less expensive to replace the whole seat with a used one from a salvage yard than replace the motors in the original. Factory Bose stereo system w/ subwoofer still is crisp & LOUD w/ no distortion. I get 23-27 mpg depending on the amount of city/highway driving I do, and it still does not burn one drop of oil between changes. Power seats are adjustable every way imaginable, & those front seats are more comfortable than most living room furniture, no kidding. Has pass-through from truck to back seats. This is far and away the best vehicle I have ever owned, and I have been through seven other foreign & domestic cars & trucks before I was lucky enough to find this one. Test drove a Chrysler 300M right before test driving the Maxima, and the American vehicle was a joke, absolute junk, compared to this one. I remember saying to my son at the time, "This car is amazing. You just THINK what you want it to do and it does it." I honestly expect to get 250,000-300,000 miles out of it, and I highly recommend this model year and other Maxima model years without any reservations whatsoever. Just a wonderful, wonderful vehicle!

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  Bells and Whistles - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By chefjohn2 - December 5 - 10:46 pm

  Wow I went from a 08 Maxima and now in the 2011 all I can say is Wow...Nissan you did right on this model..better turning radius, more comfort, tons of options, and 20 more HP. This is my 3rd Nissan and it cant get much better. Only dislike I have is that they do not have the rear back up sensors like my 08. Other than that fun to drive and turning heads. Paddle shift is awesome. PRICE was great compared to other vehicles...and Nissan is extremely LOYAL to past customers. This is the ONLY car out there that gives you the options that you want and need at a affordable price. Interior of my car is to say the least STUNNING!