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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  Great car - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By R. Moore - January 11 - 3:50 am

  One of the best cars on the highway today for the dollar.

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  Very pleased - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By dalo - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Owning this car has been a very good experience. Very comfotable ride, good acceleration, good responsiveness. The interior is a combination og wood grain and black leather which never failed to impress anybody that got in my car. I recently was rear ended by a full size ram truck and the car took it pretty well no real damage past the trunk area at 8-10mph. Good family sports sedan.

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  excellent car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Max2ny - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I think nissan really put alot in this car. Im pleased beyond belief. Thank you nissan.

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  Happy Nissan Owner - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Kurt - January 9 - 6:46 am

  This is my first Nissan and I must say that Im in love. My previous two cars were a 2001 Mustang Bullitt and a 2003 VW Jetta GLI. Ive been in many other cars and thus far the 2009 Maxima is my favorite. I actually look forward to running errands and driving to work! I bought the sports package and while some reviews say its a harsh ride, I disagree. The ride is excellent, handling is as good if not better than my VW, and road noise is very minimal. The bluetooth works great with my iPhone 3GS, and while I havent needed to use the GPS much what little I have used has been spot on. The acceleration is great for 290hp and a heavy car. I was told once to drive it like you stole it! :)

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  Awesome Nissan - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By A.R. - January 7 - 8:13 pm

  I recently purchased a 2000 Nissan Maxima. I have no complaints. It handles nice and smooth. I have driven the vehicle cross-country and loved every minute. I would highly suggest purchasing a Maxima, any year.

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  just drove off lot - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By cameek - January 5 - 2:00 am

  although my car is just a few hours old..i am very very happy with it...head turner/power/comfort...so far so good...i will definitely post as the time goes along. I got the SE in black with regular sunroof and light sand cloth interior

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  Too Bad - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By apps10 - January 4 - 3:37 pm

  Have the manual transmission and have just loved this car for 7 years. Unfortunately Nissan had some major transmission issues. My car had the entire engine, transmission and cats replaced under warrantee just before it expired. Time to get rid of the car cause I anticipate the issues resurfacing. It has been a great sport sedan with the power and acceleration being the best features. The engine is silky smooth.

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  DRIVEN - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By stumbling4ward - January 3 - 10:00 am

  This car exudes authority on the highway. Acceleration between 3k and 4k rpm is coffee spilling, head-thrown- back fun. The perfect mix of family sedan/screamin rubber. 140mph feels like 60mph

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  Love it, but am Disappointed - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By klg677 - January 1 - 9:03 am

  I have owned two Nissan Maximas, a 1990 and a 2000 SE. I purchased the 2000 SE in 10/2002. Unfortunately the 2000 model has been the problem child. First the coils went which cost $750 to fix. Then the altenator, I know these things happen wtih cars none are totally maintenance free, but after reading some of the reviews and seeing the coils mentioned over and over I wonder why they havent been recalled yet. Incidentally the 1990 SE is still going strong with no major problems.

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  Great care - fair price - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Sperbsy - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Car is very fun to drive, but not as good on gas as we originally thought. Otherwise, slightly cramped but still comfortable. Ameneties are very good.