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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  Kudos to the Max - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By jscott - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Owned my 96 SE since 96 and have 128K miles of troublefree driving. Original clutch, timing chain, etc. Only replaced battery, brakes and tires. Runs great and body holds up in Northeast. Engine is remarkable--great fuel economy, acceleration/peformance, smooth running. I have all the options-- leather interior, power everything--so car is a nice combination of a luxury family sedan and a sport/touring vehicle.

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  Excellent Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By DNM - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Love the car. Have had it for about a month and a half. No problems aside from having to have the tires rebalanced for a slight vibration a 60mph. Excellent power, though handling isnt like a sportscar since it is quite a large car. 18" rims are great, style is modern, and the value is there as long as you dont load up on the options..specifically the Nav system. Much better value than a 5 Series BMW at an astonishing $45k.

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  Transmission trouble! - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Donyeckia Rayner - August 26 - 4:09 am

  I purchased my 2016 Maxima 7/14/2015 from Andy Mohr Nissan by sept 2015 my vehicle had to have the transmission replaced, panoramic sunroof replaced and it was another component that was causing the car to miss fire. I was told by the dealership to contact consumer affairs about just getting me into another car because they couldnt recommended nor just put me in another vehicle. The case was then turned over to the arbitration dept. for review But unfortunately Nissan denied the new car replacement claim and now Im forced to drive a vehicle that i really dont feel safe in. Nissan is taking full financial responsibility for the repairs and rental car coverage but no one from Nissan was driving the car on the interstate when the car just totally lost power so they cant imagine what Im going through on a daily basis since Ive been back in the car nor do i think they really care. This is my second Nissan but will be my last! I really like the car but dont like the fact that Nissan is basically telling me Tough it out and we will fix anything that goes wrong with it.

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  Problems and Headache - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By bestfriend - August 25 - 2:50 pm

  I brought the Max 04 SL, Majestic blue last Dec 03 and a month later the fuel pump gone bad.It took Nissan 4th attempts to figure out that it was the problem.Then, headliner fell off, glove box hang, front struts gone bad, driver side weather strip came loss,fan makes noise when ac/heater on,dash board makes noise as well,smell engine burn when on a long trip just to name a few...This is a HEADACHE CAR.I filed a BBB claim and cant wait to settle this claim...I thought this was a reliable vehicle but I guess not...

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  Good Performance but - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By joenoles1 - August 24 - 11:40 am

  powerful engine and very comfortable ride. There are some common problems with this vehicle namely, brakes due to crappy rotors, ignition coils, MAF and suspension issues. I have over 150k miles and it has been an excellent vehicle.

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  Best value in the segment - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Max - August 23 - 9:33 am

  I researched vehicles for at least 1 year before purchasing my 09 SV Prem/Tech White/Caffe Latte Max. I have owned three previous Maxima bodystyles. Funny how many other reviews start out with mention of previous maxima ownership. That says a lot about this car. I love the style, power, options, reliability, and value. It was between this car and Hyundai Genesis 3.8 sedan, but I needed to have front wheel drive. I am very happy with this car and look forward to buying the next full updated model in 4-5 years. Only wish I had waited for rebate offers to save 6k or 0%, but you have to pay to play.

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  Nissan maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Dennis - August 22 - 3:26 pm

  This car is great! After turning in a 2001 Sebring LXi, which was excellent, I purchased a Maxima SE with everything except Navigation. The seats are comfortable, the heated seats are warm, the heated steering wheel is warm.. And better yet..It is so powerful..265 Horses..That thing goes..I love it!

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  The best Maxima yet - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By NissanRon - August 20 - 1:46 am

  I just bought my 3rd Nissan Maxima. The 2007 Model is the best yet. The car performs flawlessly and incredibly smooth with the CVT. Once you get used to a CVT, you will never want to go back to a regular automatic. There is no hesitation problem, unlike another Japanese brand. No RPM spiking on transmission shifts, and no snap ring failures requiring a new transmission. (Do I dare mention the 2007 Toyota Camry?) The engine is silky smooth, and has been on Wards 10 Best list since that list was first published. The fuel economy on my 2007 is so far doing better than on my 2002 and 2004 Maximas, which got about 23 mpg overall, and 28 to 29 mpg on road trips.

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  For the family man who is not DEAD yet! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Shawn - August 17 - 3:26 am

  I had a 92 maxima then an Acura Legend, now I have a 2002 Maxima! I am loving every second of it. This car is perfect for someone with a small family who stills needs to feel alive. When my wife asks me to go get something from the store i jump at the opportunity. This car is a pleasure to drive. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Excellent - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Justho - August 17 - 1:56 am

  Had a 1997 Maxima, which was ok. Saw this car at a car show while comparing to other cars in its price range. This one offers more of everything (power, features, style) than competing models. Great care, highly recommend.