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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  Dream Empty Nester Cruiser - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Ted - November 27 - 1:06 am

  This sweet girl is turning out to be everything I had hoped for. Having owned a Nissan Altima SL for the past 9 years convinced me to look hard at Nissan again. By the way, the Altima has proved to be the most trouble-free car I have ever owned. At 125K miles she is tight, uses no oil (synthetic) between 10K mile oil/filter changes, absolutely no rust here in the rest belt. Our previous Accords all rusted sooner or later! Well, I digress. Back to the Maxima. Once I decided to start looking for a newer, more sporty car my eyes fell on the 2017 Maxima and I was bitten before a test drive. I love everything about the exterior design: special likes are the front V-motion grill, front bottom spoiler (designed like the 17 Corvette, it has a kinda stingray shape), the fantastic "lighted boomerang" style headlights, and the all glass top (the SL has 2 huge panoramic sun roofs, or is that moon roofs?... always confused by that terminology). Finally, as for the exterior, those 18" aggressively-styled polished aluminum rims trimmed in black are the bomb. One little gripe here is that those wheels are not tucked inside the tire sidewalls offering almost no protection from curb rash so be real careful with your parallel parking. Im still in the break-in period so I have not put my foot into it yet although I did hone-out a few demos and was very impressed with the off-the line and running 30mph acceleration. Some writers complain about the torque steer with full-pedal launches but I did not notice a problem with that. The V-6 engine is Nissan quality so I expect zero problems with seeps, leeks, oil consumption and the like. As for the CVT transmission, well as I said Ive owned one for 9 years now and I just love this tranny. Some writers complain about rubber band launches on hard and continuous acceleration. I agree that the old 4-banger CVT exhibits that a bit but the very good "immediate" acceleration, lack of shift "bumps" experienced with non-CVT transmissions, and better gas mileage more than make up for basic CVT characteristics. Now I was just talking about my old 4-cylinder, 182HP Altima. The new Maxima CVT is a no-shifting dream and once you push the "Sport" button on the console, the transmission mimics a standard automatic to a high degree. If you want to feel "shift points" then that is what she mimics and the seemingly endless rush of "pushing you back in your seat" acceleration is amazing from this 300HP V-6! Now about the interior: This is the most "sport esthetic" sedan I have owned and for comparison I also own a 95 and07 Vettes so I know what a sport interior is all about. As soon as you open the door you are greeted with miles of beautifully contrast-stitched leather seating everywhere and as I sink my 59", 170lb. frame down into (but not much) what Nissan calls "Zero Gravity" seats I feel the seats were custom designed for me. There is a pull-out seat extension on the front of the drivers seat which tends to distribute my weight over more of my butt and lower thighs. Im sure this is going to be a very comfortable long-distance cruiser because the feel is similar to the Vette and I can drive all day without cramping up in that. As I said leather is everywhere and just about all major "touch points" down to the bottom of the door arms rests are all stitched soft-touch materials. Nissan has done a wonderful job with the interior design and quality fit and finish. The Bose audio system is great for my ears and the surround sound and extended bass is perfect to me. The cockpit is very well laid out and reminds me of some fighter jets Ive been in. The cockpit reminds me of my Vette, without the poured-in feel, due in part to the upper part of the instrument panel being angled in toward "me", and not everyone else in the car. It gives the impression that the cockpit was designed around the driver. The infotainment system in this thing sealed the deal. It has a huge and colorful 8" audio/GPS in the upper part of the center console and that is supplemented with a huge 7" engine/car management screen in front of the driver. With the 8" screen showing a GPS map you can even take your finger and "swipe" the map from there to the 7" screen in front of you! Amazing. I could go on-and-on about the dash layout and infotainment goodies but youll have to try that yourself because I am getting tired of typing and I really want to get out and drive my new Maxima anyway! One final word: the front and rear seating is plenty roomy for my family and friends. Many have remarked how comfortable and spacious the interior is for a "sport luxury" sedan. As for the trunk it is just fine for me and my family. I can easily load my large RC planes in the trunk plus I can pull the two rear seats down to near flat for hauling TVs, bikes, lumber, sleds, etc. Out for now.............

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  Reliable and sometimes fun - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By JohnSmith - November 26 - 6:53 am

  This car is overall a pretty good car. I havent had any trouble with the car super reliable. The overall exterior design is a bit sleepy and boring, especially the rear end... sort of blends in a too much. Interior build quality is decent, not really up to par with competitors. Stock suspension (even the SE sport version) is pretty soft and not very sporty. 4 door sports car? Not if its FWD.

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  Ill miss my Max.... - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Tekmax - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I cant keep a car longer than 3 years, but my Maxima is a fabulous car and I want to keep driving it! I was impressed with the sporty handling. The trunk space is great, the legroom in the back fabulous and engine, once its in the powerband, pulls nicely. I do wish it had more torque at the low end..... The tailights are ugly. Wish the doors would automatically lock, when the vehicle starts moving. I was hit and put into a spin at 60 MPH. All I could think, was 1) Im going to die 2) Wow, this things even smooth in a spin 3) "Enjoy the ride!" Best car Ive ever owned in 25 years of driving...

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  Not the Best Car in the World - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Scott15 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This 01 GXE was my first new car. Problem is, now Im having lots of little problems w/it. First off, the rear shocks bottom out over speed bumps. I took it in under warrenty and they played stupid like nothing was wrong. Then the CD player quit working. It just gives me an error msg. The steering wheel radio controls only work when its hot outside.

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  I drove it once - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By platinum3 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  I test drove several cars before I finally test drove a Maxima SE, and I was ready to sign papers before I could get back to the showroom.

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  13K on the clock - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By rj33 - November 16 - 6:43 am

  Spent a good month looking for a new car. Looked at various crossovers/SUVs/sedans and ended up on the Maxima due to the screaming deal offered because of the pending all new 09 model release. The premium optioned SE is the way to go, larger wheels, better ride, spoiler, yet still has all of the goodies (leather, heated seats, Bluetooth, XM, etc.). Gas mileage is 22-23 but I have gotten about 26-27 on a 250 mile stretch of highway.

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  Flawless Acceleration - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Ultritium - November 15 - 11:03 am

  I test drove other mid-size cars in similar price ranges; Camry, Accord Ex, Mustang GT 4.0 and none accelerated like the Maxima. I do a lot of highway driving, and hate not being able to pull out and away from a bunch of slow pokes, who love riding each others bumpers.

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  Fun to drive, with a few caveats - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Wasim - November 14 - 8:00 pm

  I had a 6-speed manual version with HLSD. The car looked great and was so much fun to drive, but it had lots of small problems. Individually, none would have been a big deal, but it all adds up. I had to turn the rotors every few thousand miles because they kept warping, replaced the Bose radio three times, and had to replace a wheel bearing all within one year of owning it. The squeaks and rattles get on your nerves after a while, and the big turning radius makes it annoying to park and make U-turns. That said, the manual was pretty nice, the car was FAST, and it handled great - the SE really has a nice suspension. And the interior was nicely appointed in my fully-loaded version.

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  Brilliant - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By dreamshot - November 13 - 6:54 am

  After driving around my parents cars during my four initial driving years, I felt it was time for my own. After some extensive research, I decided on the Maxima. This car has been nothing but reliable and really fun. It has ample passing power and still turns heads at 11 years old. Cant get enough of it and would recommend it to anyone. Also --- At 62 I do just barely fit....

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  Transmission Nightmare - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Patrick - November 9 - 2:40 pm

  Less than 65000 miles already have had one transmission replaced, two stock tires blow out, back interior shelf replaced, all 4 warped rotors replaced, front grill replaced, timing chain replaced, Air conditioning system needs to be replaced but not willing to pay 1300 dollars to do it. I am now replacing my 2nd transmission due to a defect acknowledged my nissan but not covered because out of 12000 mile part and 60000 mile powertrain warranty. I do not recommend this vehicle to anyone. This is my 2nd and last nissan vehicle I will ever purchase. Nissan consumer afairs and customer support group have yet to be helpful in this matter.