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:
Showing 2201 through 2210 of 3,122.00-
BEST CAR FOR THE PRICE RANGE - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By kaymonster - December 30 - 10:00 amIve had this car for almost three months...one word, AWESOME. The engine truly is remarkable! Real fast city or highway. Definetly one of the sharpest looking sedans on the road, but dont take my word for it....buy one and see how many oohs and ahhs you get.
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Great car, some reviews not too fair - 2007 Nissan Maxima
By mrjosephmama - December 28 - 10:00 amI bought this car new in 2006. With more than 75k on the odometer, I have no complaints about the car. I have driven it several times across country in the seat for 16 hours. Driver fatigue was low and comfort was excellent even for that long. Some other reviews I have read complain about gas mileage, premium gas required, gas tank size etc. Not to sure if they did their research but these arent flaws. Its like complaining that a Corvette has too much power. Do you research because this isnt an "economy car" its a sport sedan. 28 MPG on the highway and 21 mixed which aint too bad. If you bought this car used and complain about reliability, it was abused.
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The best maxima yet! - 2016 Nissan Maxima
By Adam Holland - December 23 - 3:41 pmSo I decided to lease this car after having
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Just took delivery - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By KB - December 23 - 12:13 pmWhile waiting for the Maximas release, drove most all 6 cylinders, including G35, Acura TL, Toyota Avalon, Accord, etc. True sports car enthusiasts may not care for the front wheel drive, but the Maxima handles very well for an entry level luxury sedan with a sporty feel. Performs better and the convenience items are great. Got the SV w/Premium Package -- white w/tan interior. Looks great. Will be back to comment on fuel economy.
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A great reliable car - 1997 Nissan Maxima
By cpk - December 23 - 10:00 amI bought this car because I knew it would be reliable, comfortable, and nice. It has been all of those things and I would definitely buy another Maxima.
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A Very Good Car - 1999 Nissan Maxima
By hptorres - December 23 - 10:00 amSo far the car has been reliable, no major problem except that the Anti Theft device needed to be reprogramed once. I like the car, good power, good interior size and look good, with the Sport Package. Id buy another.
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Satisfaction, I got mine - 1997 Nissan Maxima
By Papa - December 22 - 8:13 pmThis is my second Nissan Maxima, first one (1996) totaled in accident when rear ended by large SUV going 50+ mph as I stopped for red light. Engine of Suv was practically in my back seat before I was shot 75 yards through intersection. Not a scratch on me or passenger. Replaced it with 1997 Maxima with 80K miles in great condition. It now has 230K miles. Other than changing oil and tires on regular basis, I treat it like an off road truck. Thought about replacing it last month but couldnt turn loose of what has been a trusty companion. Took it to the shop and spent 2 grand getting her back to new mechanically. Figure shes good for another 100,000.
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THE MAX!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By bobt - December 19 - 10:00 amThis is the greatest car Ive ever owned. I also have a Chrysler 300 ,which I thought was great until I got the Max. It turns heads going down the road. It is just fun to drive. I recommend it.
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great car... - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By dragonmax - December 19 - 2:00 amlove the car. has been trouble free except for: a new radiator (original one leaked slightly, not enough to drip), noisy front pwr windows when going down in cold weather (30s), a few annoying "plastic squeaks"/ rattles inside, dealer "could not" fix...fixed them myself... expected Nissans flagship car to be tight as a drum with absolutely no noises. (I tend to be picky about this). Otherwise, it has been a wonderful car to own. Lots of comments on its great, different looks. Its really is quick and handles very well for a sedan of its size...couldnt expect too much more unless you spend a lot more. The 5-speed sportshift is a lot of fun.
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The way to go - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By Hey - December 17 - 11:30 amI brought my Max last month, and so far so good! It has lots of power, and a great market following. This is good because I plan on adding a cold air intake, y-pipe, catback exhaust,20inch rims and lowering springs to improve the handling...This should bring the HP close to 300.
