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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  00 Maxima SE 5 Speed - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By jlaves - April 4 - 10:00 am

  Having driven a Jeep Grand Cherokee before, I was looking for a car that tracks well, has the same grunt the 5.2 ltr V8 in the Jeep had, and offers me a manual. Not wanting to spend more than $24k, the list became pretty short quickly. I was not disappointed by the engine. How sweet it is! Lots of grunt, lots of revability. I think teh car looks a little weird from the outside, but I dont have to look at it while I am driving. Build quality and reliability have been excellent, and I am getting about 24 mpg in mixed, somewhat aggressive driving. The tires are almost shot after only 22,000 miles

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  Blows V6 Passat, Accord and TL away!!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By sergei91 - April 4 - 10:00 am

  Only options I didnt get were the heated seats and traction control - dealer did not have one in stock with the frost interior - black leather was WAY too hot! Tested Acura TL, V6 Passat and V6 Accord, not as smooth a ride but lot more fun and roomier. Sticker said $29,500, but actual price paid compared to V6 Accord and less than Passat, TL with same options. Love the 17 inch wheels, looks fast and sleek. Awesome interior - nothing cheap in there, gated shifter, locks and handles all look phenomenal. Awesome passing power on interstate. Worried service will not compare to Acura or even Honda and VW.

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  Excellent choice - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By walsh03 - March 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Max with a 5 speed SE trim model. This was by far the best car I have owned with very few complaints. It had goo power for a "family sedan" and handled well especially with a few do it yourself modifications. The 5 speed trany was very easy to drive and the road feel was excellent.

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  Disappointed yet Xtatic - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By DisaptdYetXtatic - March 30 - 10:00 am

  Bot a 03 GLE. Felt great to ride until I heard terrible knocking sounds on every bump second day of driving. Dealer says the Rear Shocks are defective and requires replacement. Very disappointed!!!!:( For the money I am paying, I have spent more time at the dealer than in the car. I dono if I have a lemon in my hand. I expect Quality from Nissan and If I am not getting it for the price I paid, I should probably sue them. Should I demand the car to be replaced??

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  Timing Chain - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By JAC - March 29 - 12:30 am

  This 04 nissan maxima 3.5 SE is a stick and is quick for a 4door sedan but unfortunately the car has been a big disappointment. The car has had a least two recalls and the rear panel always rattled. I finally got nissan to put in additional padding to get the rattling to stop. The oil has to be changed often or the engine will run very noisy. The sun roof leaks and now after 28000 miles the timing chain has to be changed which is costing me around 2k Im done with nissan never again JAC

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  Avoid this 2005 Maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By rcs26 - March 26 - 4:11 pm

  I have bought all new cars Malibu(150k), Camry(225K) & donated both cars while running good. Then I bought new Toyota sienna ( 252K & running good), I decided to buy new & different car & I bought brand new design Maxima "Nissans Flagship Car" with so much hope. It ran good for 2 yrs & then started breaking down. Dealer fixed whatever was under warranty. After all warranties expired major things started breaking. I replaced all Camshaft sensors. A/C was fixed twice still leaking. Struts and tie-rods were replaced. Within last year timing chain guides & transmission broke, estimate ~$7000. Now I was told it leaks oil. Havent decide whether to repair/resale. I still love to buy new Nissan.

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  Very Pleased Maxima Owner - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By DRPIV - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Best car I have owned to date. The performance is the strong suit, great value at the time as well. Looks sharp, plenty of room and comfort. Only complaint - battery died at 8,000 miles, Nissan replaced, no problem. One recall, fixed no problem. Tire wear a bit excessive, does anyone really need $200 tires. Is a horse, get in and hold on. You will never accept less in terms of performance.

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  Love this car - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By gfkgfkghfgfb - March 26 - 10:00 am

  this car is an absolute joy to drive, it has alot of power and handles like its glued to the road. also has a very well laid out interior,and the bose system is absolutely incredible.after 10 years of driving toyotas,ill never go back.

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  A little too SPORTY... - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Hulesy - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Definite BANG for the buck;however it has always been. I feel with the new cost should have had a little more luxury but I chose the SE so I guess cant complain.

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  Comfort, luxury and performance - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By jim4649 - March 25 - 5:26 pm

  My 4th Nissan and I absolutely love this car. Smooth, comfortable, quiet ride, good acceleration, great transmission, great brakes, adequate handling, lots of luxury features (try the heated leather seats on a cold winter morning), great stereo and stylish looks. This is fast car. Ive owned a V8 Mustang GT (4.6L, 260hp, 301 torque) and a few Honda sportbikes, so I know what fast is. This is not a sports car but its certainly no slouch.