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 201 through 210 of 311.00

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  One test drive will have you convinced.. - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By tamast - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The 2002 Maxima is just so loaded with features that its hard to ignore. Compared to the Acura TL-S, or a used 2000 Audi A6, I was considering, it wins hands down. I am very impressed with standard HIDs, the very responsive 255HP legendary VQ engine, and the tight suspension of the SE. For 02 you can even get a 6 speed manual (unfortunately I passed it up, not much fun in the crowded DC area). I spent a long time searching for the perfect vehicle, and almost never even test drove one; if it wasnt for my mother buying an 02 Id be stuck in something I payed too much for with much less performance!

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  A Distinctive Car Worth the Quirks and Shortcomings - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By thos - July 20 - 5:17 pm

  I have an 02 Maxima automatic with 70,000 miles bought almost 3 years ago with 45,000 miles. Mine burns oil, one to two quarts between changes every 4,000 miles. I also bought an 03 Altima V6 and it does the same thing, leading me to believe that this is a very common problem. However, the cars are cheap to buy used and a quart or two of oil between changes is less than $10, so why bother putting in new rings? I ran regular gas for the first 2 1/2 years--a mistake. The drivetrain, including the transmission, works better with premium. The solid rear axle in this car makes for inferior handling compared to the Altima, but the latter lacks the "elan" of the older Maxima in my view

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  7 years & still going - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By derosa - July 12 - 11:10 pm

  I purchased my Maxima new in January of 2003. Its the best car Ive ever owned. I now have 168,000 miles on it. Its never been in the shop for any repairs except 2 small items that Nissan contacted me about that they did for free. I change the oil regularly with Mobil 1 synthetic 5W-30 & replace the oil filter & I have no oil leaks. I also change the coolant and transmission fluid every 50K miles. And I replace the air filter every 15K - 20K miles. Replace tires & brakes as needed. It has more than enough power. Great brakes and fantastic balanced ride. Plenty of room for 2 car seats in the back. My wife drives it mostly now & she loves it also. I will update when we reach 200K.

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  The new speedy - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By stxman - June 17 - 2:00 am

  The loaded GLE is not only a rival to the luxury kings of the road, the car is fast and powerful. With regard to the slight delay on the gas when the pedal is floored, the car is an all around rocket that grips, sticks and hauls!!!

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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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  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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  Great Car - Could have been better; - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Newsha Makooi - May 7 - 2:00 am

  I love the car, but the fog light design is very poor. Also, after 32000 miles, the interior has developed a lot of road-noise. Sounds like little parts have come loose and rattle too much. I hate that. However, the BOSE system will cover any noise/road-noise that you might otherwise hear. Also, the OEM tires are useless. I had to replace all 4 at 22,500 miles.

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  ankurs review - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By tnivana - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Awesome!