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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  burevs review - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By burev - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I find this vehicle rides very hard, not as comfortable as previously owned maximas. Performance and reliablility are unmatched in my opinion. Radio antennae would improve reception.

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  I hate to part with her... - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By kencal2000 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought her brand-spanking new at start of 1995 and have loved the ride, style, and general performance. Havent as much cared for any of the later models of Maxima until 2002 though. Now with 122,000 miles and need for more cargo and people space Im looking to sell---dealer wanted to give me $3500 trade-in...which is a joke for my well-cared for machine.

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  Hate to sell it - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By moshea - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This car has been fantastic. The only reason Im selling is because I have no need to drive it anymore. Bought a 96 (stick) because several friends had 95s and 97s, and havent had a single problem the entire 50,000 miles Ive driven it. Ride is smooth and fun, interior is comfortable, Bose sound is great, and I think the older body style is better than the newer models. Great deal in a used vehicle, no doubt.

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  Get the 02 now! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By docdoowop - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Just pulled the trigger on a new SE 6- speed in Super Black. With Bose system, sunroof and various other minor options we paid $950 UNDER invoice ($24,300). Nail down a year-ender now. The redesigned 2004 Maxima debuts next Spring, and Nissan is going to move the car upscale to more clearly separate it from the Altima. That means youll be crossing the $30k threshold easily. Best performance sedan Ive driven since my 89 Taurus SHO. Both thumbs way up!

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  Blast to drive but...... - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Txstinkbug - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Just went on trip to Smokies. AC went out and spent 8 hours total on road back and forth to closest dealer twice to finally get it fixed somewhat. It still cools but the compressor sounds like its about to grenade. Other than that ohhhhhhhh what a car.

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  Nissan 1996 GLE by Long time owner - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By crouchde - June 8 - 10:00 am

  A solidly built, good looking and comfortable car with excellent performance and handling. I owned a 1986 for 10 years and have owned my 1996 for 7 1/2 years. Ill be glad to buy a third.

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  LOVE MY MAXI - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By the greeder - June 6 - 12:20 am

  I love my 07 maxima. I also drove an 07 Camry and an 06 maxima, but once I drove the 07 maxi it was over. Just love the sporty looks inside and out.I only have one complaint and it really has nothing to do with the car itself. My husband and I wanted the SL because of the woodgrain look but now are having a problem buying a spoiler for it because ours didnt have one on it.

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  2002 Maxima SE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Maxima - June 4 - 3:36 am

  After putting 205,000 nearly trouble free miles on my 1991 Maxima SE I figured buying a 2002 SE wouldnt be a bad choice. This car didnt disapoint. The enlarged 3.5 liter engine, while very thirsty for fuel, has the ability to really push you back in your seat. My 91 had some spunk, but it is nowwhere near the speedster this thing is. The standard Xenon headlights are fantastic.

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  Rattles and buzz - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By chazzi - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Car was great for the first month. now we get a grinding noise right after shifting into drive and the gas pedal and steering wheel buzz and shake. Been to the dealer twice with no results. Last Nissan this family buys.

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  Looks great but having issues - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By steve - May 29 - 11:10 am

  I took a march 2006 delivery on this Black with dark grey cloth seats Nissan SE as a commuter and 2nd car. The only options were the mats, spoiler and the sunroof. It has been in the shop 3 times to replace the front right struts (it is now Oct. 06). There is a rattling in the steering that the dealer cannot seem to fix. It is fine for straight highway cruising but forget having fun in the twisties. This car get nervous and sloppy real fast. Its a psuedo sports car. While the exteriror styling is beautiful the body panel are soft and thin. Subject to the slightest dings. With the mecahnical problems and the sloppy handling I cant wait to get rid of it.