Overview & Reviews

The Maxima receives updates this year that make it less of a family sedan and more of an entry-level luxury sport sedan. Headlining this year's upgrades is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces a stunning 255 horsepower. For maximum performance, sport-tuned SE models now combine this engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Other changes include revised exterior styling, additional feature content and an optional GPS navigation system.

• Impressively powerful V6 engine, sports car moves, plenty of room for five adults.

• Odd styling details, high price, rough ride quality with SE suspension.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 311.00

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  Gibsons review - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Chuck Gibson - September 1 - 7:33 am

  I bought the car new in 2002 and have been very pleased overall. A few quirks witht the radio in the beginning, but all is resolved under warranty. Fuel economy is nothing to brag about (25.9mpg on the fuel economy meter, but dont believe it). Engine is powerful and extremely smooth. No problem getting around the slowpokes or merging onto highways. My only complaint is the limited turning radius on this car. Many times I have had to unnecessary 3 point turns that most cars, or even my wifes minivan would cruise through easily. I have received many compliments on this car and dont feel as though I have wasted a dime on it. The resale value proves the resale legacy continues.

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  2002 Maxima SE vibration problem. - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By bvf10376 - June 1 - 4:00 am

  Im noticing a vibration in the steering and seat but only at highway speeds ( not noticed in the demo ride because it was just around town ). Service people recognized problem. All 4 rims and tires replaced. Slight improvement but still not right. Nissan says this is normal???? Im wondering if theres a flaw in the SE because Ive heard rumors that other new SEs owners have complained and that all SEs on the dealers lot were shown to have the problem.

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  Not if you live in North Jersey!!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By speen - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Yes its beautiful, fast and rides great but do not buy this car if you live in North Jersy!! The Xenon headlights have been stolen from mine 3 times. As soon as I get it back from the body shop Im trading it in for something with Halogens.

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  Great Power - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By PTNLGR - February 3 - 9:03 pm

  I drove BMWs, Mercedes Benzs and the new ES 300 and for the money, you can not beat the Maxima. None of the more expensive cars had as much power, and the Maxima had all of the options, and more, that the big bucks cars. You owe it to yourself to drive this car if your in the market for a $30K or more auto. Not as much snob appeal, but easier on the wallet.

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  From 540i to great value in 6.3 seconds. - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Old 280 Guy - December 25 - 2:00 am

  This car is the best value for the money out there. I test dove both the Acura TLS and the Lincoln LS, both nice cars but without the 6-speed they dont compare. The quality and options on the car are exceptional for the price. My previous car was a BMW 540i which you cannot compare, except that you get 75% of that car for 55% of the price. The next generation I believe due next year may effect resale.

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  Good buy - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By mgs - September 20 - 10:00 am

  First Family car purchase ever. Considered the typical Camery, Accord, Passat and Legacy. The Max was larger in every sense of the word. Bigger wheels, engin, wheel base, F/R headroom, leg room, shoulder room - oh yea and a bigger thirst for fuel. It has a smooth wisper quiet powerful engin, its accelaration really fools you. I have already had to talk my way out of a ticket - and I was not even in a hurry. I do not like the rear headlights, and I am dissapointed in the paint. In all I would recommend the car - just pay close attention to the warrentee as it pertains to the paint - you will use it.

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  Awesome car, bad design - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By NYmaxima - August 28 - 10:00 am

  The car is awesome. I put 1000 miles on it the first week i had it. In 5 days I had my Headlights stolen. WHAT IS WRONG WITH NISSAN TO MAKE THE CAR LIKE THIS 2 YEARS IN A ROW. Had the dealer replace with 2001 halogen lights costing $2600. Other than that i love my baby.

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  New Maxima SE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By rmf - July 5 - 6:10 am

  My new Maxima SE is a great car. The new engine offers tons of power, the ride on the SE was a little harsher than I had expected. In all this is a great car, if you are looking for a comfortable ride try the GLE. If sporty handling with great acceleration is what you need try the SE.

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  Comments on Maxima GLE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By mickeyandme - July 2 - 10:00 am

  Owning this car has been a generally satisfying experience. I am VERY impressed with my dealers response to warranty situations. Things to fix iclude: Fix SLIPPERY steering wheel on GLE model ... dangerous!!! Needs more comfortable drivers seat with more secure hip gripping ... tendency to slide around on turns with leather upholstery. Less jouncy suspension option.

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  An outstanding car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By 03passatguy - June 21 - 2:05 am

  Weve owned our 2002 Maxima GLE since it was new. Its been a bull: smooth, comfortable, reliable. Next to nothing to fix - except the CD player - outside of normal maintenance. We still own it. It still drives beautifully. Congratulations, Nissan.