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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  First great purchase - Nissan Maxima - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By JR - December 21 - 8:13 pm

  I purchased my Maxima in 1999 with only 6 miles. The acceleration, fuel economy, and aestetic appearance exceeded my expectations the day I purchased it and now, I am even more pleased with my purchase because I have only had to performed routine maintenance (oil change, new tires, belts, etc.). It still performs very well! I think the Maximas are priced well for their reliability, appearance, and last, but most important fuel economy.

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  Great Car - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By paw - December 20 - 11:00 pm

  It is a very snappy car. Holds the road very well. It is a very stylish looking Car. I went from a Yukon xl to car and thought the room would be a big factor, but it acutally is quite roomy. Stopping is excellent. I love the telescope steering wheel. So far I love it. My daughter likes the fact that we are riding on 18 inch wheels.

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  Mixed feelings... - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By luckygrl1121 - December 18 - 7:46 pm

  I purchased my 2005 Maxima SE (used) about 6 mths ago. Loved it at first, but over time Ive noticed some neg things. Sharp exterior though the chrome on the front grille is starting to peel off. Ive noticed this is a common problem in these cars. It has a lot of get up and go, but the steering is a little unstable with acceleration. Also, rattling noise with accel. Handles terribly in the snow! I expected more from this car. Interior is roomy and comfortable, but kinda cheap & confusing. Defaults to A/C when you change the mode. Also, gas mileage is not as good as I thought itd be. Turning radius is awful! Parking is more difficult than a car this size should be. Not sure Ill buy another.

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  Cant Stop Looking at It! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Larry - December 18 - 12:53 pm

  Just got my Tuscan Sun 2009 Maxima SV with Premium and Technology packages. Pictures do not do justice to the car. You need to see it in person. Even after 2 weeks I still find myself staring at it after I get out. Was worried a bit about gas mileage before buying but Ive put 1000 mixed miles on it and am getting about 24 mpg. Using regular grade gas as well even though premium is recommended. Traded in an Infiniti I30 which I loved, but the new Maxima has it beat. Love the car so far.

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  Fun, Fast, Comfortable.... - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By woodwind - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Since I rarely ever buy the first model year of any car, I tagged on to the tail-end of this generation Maxima. The deals being offered make them a better buy than a simlarly equipped Altima! I could not pass it up - and I am happy I did not. Before you buy a new Altima 3.5, see if the dealer has a Maxima. They are a great value and a wonderful car.

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  The Did It Right - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By David - December 14 - 10:54 pm

  I have had the car for a month now. To sum into 2 categories: Simply Incredible: 1. The interior. Our other car is an Audi. This is just as nice, if not better. 2. Safety features. What can I say...WOW. They nailed this. The car has beeped at me 3 times now when the car in front of the car in front of me has hit their brakes hard. Once the car in front of me literally had to fully lock up to avoid an accident. Me? A little hard braking but no big deal...becuase the car warned me. They found that perfect sweet spot where the beeping is not annoying, but it always does it at just the right time. 3. Surround cameras...so easy to park! 4. The CVT. Just never think about it. I guess that means it is good! 5. Remote start. It was cold yesterday, finally. Remote started. When I got in the car I noticed it heated up the steering wheel for me, in addition to of course heating the cabin to the temp I left the car at. Really nice touch. 6. The headlights. Brightest and most precise I have ever seen in a car. Visibility is just great. Good but needs work 1. Nav and entertainment. Mostly nailed it. Little things I wish were better. You cannot see the song playing in the 7" screen for sat radio (does so with iPod and bluetooth)...takes a bit to find some things in the menu system. Blacks out options when driving for saftey which is fine but some I disagree shoudl be blacked out. Most useful 3d map I have seen in a car. Really Nissan, get with the program and allow Car Play and such...I do worry that this system will be "old" in 5 years, hope they have an ability and plan for software updates! The Nissan Apps are useless, but frankly I dont want Trip Advisor in my car. Would DIE to get a Spotify app though! 2. Intelligent cruise. Its pretty damn cool. I suppose I should not expect this to work like I assume a Tesla works! Only complain is when a car in front of me changes lanes it takes a while for the car the "let it go" and realize I have clear roads in front of me. Overall I love it though. 3. Zero G seats. OK it took a full 3 weeks to find an acceptable position (I am 6 2" with a bad back). Agreed, the center console can annoy the knee, I have to really set the seat back a little more than I like to so it does not happen. I worry that in a few years there will be a noticable wear spot there. At least it has some padding. Otherwise seats are really the best I have ever had in a car...ventilation works great, leg support extender great for someone my size. And as other reviews have noted, why was Nissan unwilling to make the passenger seat 6 or 8 way? Short people complain that they are really low, and really tall people JUST have enough head space. What else can I say? I feel like I dont deserve this car, the interior is so damn nice! Drives with that perfect balance of a really stiff frame, but forgiving at the same time. Issues I have with this car are pretty trivial. Everyone who has been in it or driven it is jsut floored...especially people who own luxury brands!

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  09 SV- Premium Pkg with Tech Pkg - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Mike - December 12 - 9:16 am

  Just bought the 09 Max for wife this past week. We have own one other Max it was a 1997 we loved it. The new body design is great. We first looked at the SV Sport Pkg with Tech pPkg because of the price difference of the premium Pkg but we found a SV Premium w/tech Pre price change for $1000 more and that was with them adding the Rear Spoiler.We wanted the sport look.The voice recognition/bluetooth for the mobile phone is very clear. The nav system is very nice. You will spend a lot of time playing with all the tech in the car. Love the music Box,There is so much that I love about the car.

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  This car was well maintained - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Eleisha Redmond - December 10 - 3:46 pm

  This car is Stylish and comfortable

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  3k miles in, great car so far. - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Maximus16 - December 9 - 4:38 pm

  Bought a white Platinum for my wife. At first I did not want this car. I wasnt to big on the body change and powertrain. I really expected Nissan to pump out more than 300hp and 261 torque. The Nismo edition is supposed to have 325hp - 298 torque, well see how it does. But I went to the dealership, sat in one, played around with the controls then test drove.. I ended up trading in my 2012 SV model (I made reviews on here before - Maximus12). I can tell the CVT has improved. It does feel slightly faster than my 2012 model, this one will get up and go. The seats are more comfortable. The center console does sit a little high but part of that design was so you rest your arm on it and use the center menu buttons and control wheel comfortably while driving. The technology in this car is great. 4 cameras, lane departure sensors, accident prevention sensors, music over bluetooth. The lighting inside wood panel at night looks pretty neat. I would say Nissan did well with this redesign. I did read the other reviews on here and seeing others having issues with their moon roof and memory seating. I will say our memory seating is not working. Well save our settings for drivers 1 and 2 then the next day, neither button works. I will be addressing this to the dealership. No issues with moon roof yet. Hopefully none. One thing for you guys to watch out for- our model has lighter tan leather (I would say more white than tan) and my wifes jeans are turning the leather blue. These are not cheap Wal Mart jeans either. Purchasing some leather cleaner from Advanced Auto Parts or Auto Zone removes the blue. Not sure what that is about.. We have a 4runner with tan leather seats and it does not happen in there. Overall were happy with the car. I will post again around 10k miles.

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  Its ok - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By John - December 6 - 10:26 pm

  I bought this vehicle used in 2003. with 43,000 miles on it. Its the SE model and it has every option in it. Very good V6 smooth till this day amazing! I have changed the brakes, tires, coils, spark plugs, alt., AC compressor, belts, and Im probably gonna end up bringing it in again for coil wires or something with the xpark plugs because the car shakes bad when accelerating. But overall I love the car, I just gotta keep taking care of it.