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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  Wow this is a great car! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By RichL - September 24 - 6:00 am

  Traded my 08 Accord EX in on 09 Max SV and have had it for about three weeks and 1000 miles and wow what and upgrade, I cannot believe how nice this car is, the Accord isnt even in the same league. The performance is unbelievable, this thing is a rocket, ride is very quite, interior materials are very classy, seats are comfortable, good handling with the 18in wheels, and I am averaging 23.5 in mixed driving which I considering pretty good. I have gotten tons of compliments on the looks from neighbors to complete strangers. I still havent figured out all of the gadgets but this thing has lots of goodies. I would highly recommend buying one. You wont be disappointed.

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  Love it ! - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Y Johnson - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I wasnt in the market for a Nissan Maxima but a friend of mine had done a lot of car and SUV research and loved the new Maxima. She ended up buying an SUV but she said if should would have bought a car, it would have been the Maxima. So, I started doing my own reasearch on them and after a few test drives, I decided I wanted one. Mine is fully loaded and I have the bigger wheels (17"). Everyone always comments on how roomie my car is even when the front seat is slid back. The leather still looks great. Good sound system. Good size trunk. I am very happy with this car and would buy another one.

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  One of the best values out there! - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By usmcbigguns - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I drive this car very hard and have not had a problem with my max. Bought an extended warranty with the car, big mistake, it was a waste of money. Only items that need replacement were belts (85k)brake pads(35k and 75k) and the battery(87k). The pick-up this car has is amazing considering the engine output. Handles well and the transmission is relatively smooth.

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  The Very Best - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By harryfleis - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I have never enjoyed driving a car as much as this.

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  Amazing - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By my baby - September 17 - 8:13 pm

  Ive had this car for about a year and havent had any problems besides for an alternator because I got subs. I got it at 105,613 and now Im about 125,698 but I havent seen any loss of power or handling. This car is very fast for it size and weight. Its very comfortable and has a smooth ride. I dont think Ill ever sell my car. I have people coming up to me now thinking its a newer car than it is. This car is so much fun to drive even with an automatic

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  Maxima long term review - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By madmax1 - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Driven car for past 5 years. Very reliabile, has been in shop for only periodic maintenance and to replace odometer, which quit working around 75k. Currently have over 150000 miles on the car and it is in great shape. I have been looking for new vehicle with the same value to performance ratio and still cannot find anything comparable.

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  Its not a luxury car but nothing less - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Maxmized - September 16 - 1:30 pm

  I think I know what I am talking about, because I have driven Lexus ES, Infiniti GS, Acura TL and Maxima 06. Mind you I drove them because I or my family member owns these cars. My review is not based on test drives. I think the editor is incorrect in saying - if you can live without ohs and ahs of neighbors then Maxima is for you. Not that it matters, but for the last two weeks that I have had this car that is all am getting from friends, colleagues and neighbors. This feeling is same across both genders. I would buy this any day over Acura, Lexus or Audi A6. Cons: wish it was quieter inside like Lexus and that Nissan can make this beast a rear-wheel drive. Great size for family too.

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  AWESOME - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Keri Knapp - September 15 - 5:00 pm

  I absolutely love this vehicle!!! It is sooooo smooth!

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  Nissan Security Flawed - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By MaximaT - September 15 - 10:56 am

  I am a big Nissan Enthusiast and was very excited to get my 2009 Maxima. Overall it has been a great car, however, these week I was targeted by car thieves because they knew that the car had a security flaw. They were able to roll down both front windows unlock the doors and get in without setting off the alarm. When the police arrived they informed my that Maxima, Altima and G35 have had this issue since 2004! Why Nissan has not addressed this in the new Maxima model is beyond me. The estimate fix the damaged caused to the door skin and lock is over $1000 and I would still be vulnerable to future break ins. I am very disappointed in this development and Nissans lack of accountability.

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  Maxima Minima - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By 90max - September 13 - 12:53 pm

  The 2002 Maxima is an extraordinarily frustrating car. Power and handling are terrific, and superior to anything in its class. Nissan should have hit a homerun with this car, but failed to touch the bases. While the drivetrain merits superlatives, the drivers seat/ seating position warrants expletives. The seat is TERRIBLE (to put it mildly), and the seating position is a mess. The Maxima is a confused amalgamation of world class engineering and inept design.