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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  Extreme Reliability - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Charles - February 8 - 5:30 am

  I purchased my Maxima December 22, 2000. This has been an extremely reliable vehicle. I have taken care of regular maintenance when it due to be done and have had only one problem with the vehicle this entire time. The starter needed replaced in mid summer of 2005. I currently have over 110,000 miles on the vehicle and have no reservations about driving it cross country. The ONLY reason I may get rid of this vehicle would be to purchase a new Maxima!

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  DONT BUY IT! UNLESS YOU ARE STUCK WITH NISSAN AND HAVE NO OTHER OPTION - 2012 Nissan Maxima
  By iamjade - February 8 - 4:05 am

  Brand new car, and there is condensation in both side mirror lights. Nissan claims this is normal. This car is beautiful to look. The car is very roomy and is easy to drive in the city (just watch out for the wide turns). On the highway the handling is terrible and a lot of wind noise. I get frustrated when i have to sync my ipod because it doesnt work the 1st, 2nd, or even 3rd time. If you are interested in an Maxima, Please Go check out the Acura TSX/TL, Honda Accord, Lexus ES, Toyota Camry/Avalon.

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  Beauty And The Beast - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Al Seider - February 7 - 9:56 pm

  The new Maxima really is the Beauty and the Beast! It is extremely attractive, both inside and out and is very well constructed of quality materials. People stare at this car and frequently compliment me on it. The beast part is the revised engine. Put this thing into Sport Mode and it blasts up to high speeds in what seems like nanoseconds. It blows away my 2012 Maxima as far as acceleration goes. The new CVT is deserving of the highest praise possible. This is a CVT that absolutely does not behave like one. It provides immediate responses, is super smooth and feels just like a regular automatic transmission. It feels very "connected" to the drivetrain. There is no perception of slippage or hesitation - this thing just moves! Id far rather have this excellent CVT than some of clunky 8 or 9 speed transmissions I have driven that are constantly changing and cant quite decide which gear to select. I challenge anyone who drives this to honestly admit that this is one of the best transmissions they have ever driven behind. The interior quality rivals that of much more expensive cars. It truly has one of the nicest interiors at any price. I could rave on and on about it. Nissan has certainly set a new standard in ergonomics, interior detailing and the quality of materials. As expected with Maximas, it rides, steers, handles and brakes very well. Pay no attention to the purists who condemn it for being a front wheel drive with a CVT. This is an exceptionally well engineered vehicle. I have reached 29mpg on the freeway which is incredible for an engine of this size, and I like to AWAKEN the beast under the hood. The only criticisms I have is that the audio system on the SV is not up to the standard I expected. I would have probably opted for the SL if had realized how mediocre the sound system is in the SV. Also, the Continental tires are very noisy and dont provide for a particularly smooth ride. It is impossible to use the sound system or have a normal conversation at freeway speeds because of the tire noise. Why Nissan manufacture a superlative, best-in-class vehicle like the Maxima and then condemn it to a set of inferior tires is beyond me. Nissan, PLEASE do something about this. I will be replacing these rolling pieces of garbage with Michelins or Yokohamas which Ive had on my previous Maximas. Unfortunately a pricey upgrade for a vehicle so new, but I cant live with the constant tire noise.

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  I have been converted to Nissan - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By markcowboysfan - February 7 - 10:00 am

  My wife wanted one and I wasnt sure about Nissan. At one time not long ago their cars were not very good. However, I gave them a second chance and I am glad I did. I literally love this new Maxima SL.

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  Three is a Charm! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Third Timer - February 1 - 11:26 am

  I just picked up my new 2010 Maxima (Blue w/Tan) last night and cant say enough good things about it. This is my third since 2003. The VQ series engine is simply a work of art and mechanical design genius! I traded in a 2005 Acura TL which was an excellent car, but this Maxima beats it and its new model hands down. The value quotient for this vehicle is outstanding! Performance and feature content cant be beat. Reliability of my past two was excellent, no issues! I look forward to a long loving relationship with this third Maxima. By the way, Fox Nissan was outstanding giving me a GREAT deal and excellent delivery experience. NO hassles! Buy a Maxima!

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  I LOOVE this car!! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By soozi - February 1 - 6:26 am

  Bought the SV w/Prem Package and I absolutely LOOVE this car. I drove an Audi prior to this and was afraid Id feel like I downgraded. NO WAY!! This car has more features than my Audi and is super fun to drive! Transmission shifts smoothly and quietly and Im getting 19.7 mpg around town using 89 octane. Would recommend this car to everyone!

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  Mostly Satisfied - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Sandra - January 30 - 10:23 pm

  I fell in love with the looks of this car. Very stylish and the many wonderful features make driving it a pleasure. However, this is my first non-american designed vehicle, and I am disappointed in the comfort of the ride. I bought the SL because it was suppose to have a more luxurious ride. I find the seats to be hard and uncomfortable (when driving for any distance) compared to other vehicles I have owned in the past. Also, even though the car is sound proof, every imperfection in the road is felt and heard.

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  My First Car - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Pez - January 29 - 10:00 am

  The silky smooth V6 is superb; it throws you to the back of the car once you floor it. The leather interior is graciously crafted alongside with the woodgrain that gives it a luxury type look. Ive driven this car all over Texas picking up loads of friends; they all seem to have given me great compliments on my car like "Man, your parents bought you a really nice car", "Your car takes off!", "Is your car on? (because its so quiet and still)", and "Your Bose system is awesome!" Nissan has done an all around great job on this powerful sedan. I think Im going to keep this car until it stops running.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By jbwst17 - January 29 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for about a week now and it is awesome! I am 25 and it is my 8th vehicle - all previous were either ford or GM and they simply didnt last. I looked at the Accord (what were they thinking with that ass end??), Camry (30k for a camry?!?!), & VW Passat (too trendy and NO power). The maxima is actually similar to the TL & Lexus ES in size, performance, interior quality, and image. The appearance and performance really separate it from its tradtional competitors, and price only makes it a more attractive package.

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  I dont know - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Heynissan - January 29 - 10:00 am

  I am not going to comment on interior or exterior look cuz thats personal taste. But the torque steer you just simply cant igore. I am very surprised they didnt learn anything from the Altima 3.5 experience(torque steer too). Do they think general public just wont notice that or what? I think Nissan is pushing out a lot of flashy cars fast with poor built/cheap qualities. They should pay more attention to basic engineering and quality. Toss gas guzzling 3.5 VQ engine with a lot of horse power in every car is just not the solution. Have to design good platforms to go with it. I am a little disappointed. not worth 30k!!!