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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  Unhappy 2 the Max - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By bizyB - July 11 - 10:56 pm

  I purchased this vehicle used, after trading in my Acura RL (mistake!). With this car you feel every bump. My passenger side door has become so hard to close, that you get a work out every time you close it. My ABS sensor went bad which cost me big $$$ before they found out what was causing my brakes to make such an awful noise. When I first got it the power steering came and went whenever. I see why the younger crowd like the car, it is fast and sexy, but us older guys like luxury with our speed. I am trading it for a BMW the first chance I get.

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  Dont buy - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By cubs - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I have 82,000 miles on the engine its in the shop for a new engine

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  Perfect so far.......... - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By rp65 - July 9 - 10:40 pm

  I bought my Maxima with only 2k miles on it and currently have over 90k without any problems. The only thing I have replaced are the brakes and still have the original tires on it but I wouldnt recommend going that long on them. It has never let me down and I cant say anything bad about it.

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  Nissan Keeps Getting Better - Maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By shinks - July 9 - 2:13 pm

  In considering many different vehicles for this purchase I couldnt neglect the reliability of my past Nissans. The 2005 axima did not take long to be moved to the top of the list with its unique, noncomformist styling and the performance it offered. Togehter with the reliability that I have found with Nissan products, this car was not a dissappointment. It has been everything one would expect in a sedan of this quality that is targeted for those looking for more than a family sedan. Its performance and handling are excellent.

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  HOT HOT HOT!! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Nor-easter - July 9 - 11:13 am

  I waited a year to write my review and I still love this car. It is fast, it corners, and it just wants to go!! Its like an anxious race horse at the starting gate. If you want to change lanes on the freeway - this car will throw you back in the seat from any speed. Most professional reviews fail to note that Nissan designs and builds race cars. I suspect most of the professional reviewers have not even driven this car. If you are any kind of a race enthusiast then you will not find a better ride for the money. It is just plain fun to drive.

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  2004 SL - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By amy crawford - July 8 - 8:36 pm

  The only problem I have had with my Maxima is the sunroof. They cant seem to get it fixed. It wont close properly or even open sometimes. Everything within it from the motor to a new switch panel. Also both of the front struts had to be replaced within a few months of each other. I just think that was the actual manufacturer of the struts themselves not Nissan. I have some serious concerns over the sunroof since I have over 33,000 miles on the car an very little warranty left.

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  Very Bumpy Drive! - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By LJ - July 8 - 2:53 pm

  I am a Maxima fan, however, the 2003 SE model rides extremely bumpy and although I love the car, I am almost sorry I bought it because the ride feels like a very cheap car and Im suprised and disappointed. I have tried to get the car checked and lowered air pressure in the tires but when the car hits even the slightest bump it feel terrible. I also find the car handles terrible in rain and snow.

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  Why Cant Detroit Do This? - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Tom Long - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. It is beautifully styled and a joy to drive. I have nearly 120,000 miles on this car, and other than a starter replacement, I have had no repairs beyond routine maintenance. The engine is the quietest, smoothest performer on the road. If Detroit could do this, the American auto industry would be on the way back.

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  My Four Door Hot Rod - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By My98 SE - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I just turned 17 two weeks ago and to my delight my perents bought me a 98 Maxima SE with all the options availible that year except side airbags. I am known for having a lead foot and the Maxima handles that well. My friends and I timed the 0-60 time at 6.8 seconds with the car in power mode. The power mode lets the car rev higher and allows the car to shift more aggressively. The BOSE stereo is one of the best standard stereos I have ever heard in a car and is far better than the Infinity stereo in my old 96 Chrysler Concord. So if you want a hot rod on the weekend, a comfortable driving car Mnday through Friday but are on a budget than I highly recommend the 98 Maxima.

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  Best car I ever had - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By shielda - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had it 6 weeks, so reliability not tested yet - but Consumer Reports says its one of the best. The car is fun to drive, comfortable, powerful. My family enjoys it. Driving on mountain roads is a real treat. Hugs the highway, acceleration leaves other vehicles standing still. The sound system is excellent. Bought a new Toyota Camry in 1989, loved it, but the Maxima is even better. Best kept secret of fun cars.