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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  No bang for the buck - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By notverypleased - April 4 - 9:23 am

  I had very high expectations for the new Maxima that were not met. The ride is much too rough and the back seat room is absolutely terrible. I jumped the gun way too quick on this one. A little bit too sporty. It may as well have been a coupe. Im not knocking Nissan but I am knocking the Maxima. If I could make one recommendation to anyone, lease dont purchase.

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  Great car, great price - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Hugh C - April 1 - 3:46 pm

  Firm ride, but not hard like BMWs and other sport sedans. Excellent highway car with the 6 speed manual and powerful V-6. Visibility and handling are great, interior comfort is good with all the controls right where you want them. Lots of back-seat room and trunk space. Everything you could ask for in a car, plus nearly 30 miles to the gallon, original cost just over 20k.

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  Keeps on going (FAST) w/140K! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By jdub - April 1 - 4:03 am

  When I traded a 2000 Acura TL for the Maxima, it had about 25K miles. I drive about 30K per year and wanted something that had a lot of power with a manual transmission that also got decent gas mileage. Roominess was also important to me since I have a family. I got exactly what I was looking for, and the car now has about 140K miles. The Maxima is the perfect commuter for my needs. The V6 is amazing. I think it may be the best motor in any car Ive ever driven. Torque is plentiful and available everywhere in the rev range. The 6 speed is not the slickest, but it keeps you involved, even though you do not have to work very hard shifting because of all of the torque. This is a great Q-ship.

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  Outstanding value!!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By WillieJ - March 31 - 10:00 am

  My previous cars were a Volvo Turbo, and an Acura Coupe. All pale in comparison to the Maxima SE.

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  Maxima - Better than Accord or Camry! - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Kim - March 29 - 11:36 pm

  I purchased a 2008 Maxima-SE withh Platinum Edition Package 3 months ago. It is the perfect combination of sport & luxury. It feels sportier than the Toyota Camry, and more refined than the Honda Accord. I chose the "SE" because I like the brushed aluminum accents (versus the wood-tone accents in the "SL"). I like the way the car handles - except it does have a larger turning radius than some other vehicles in this class. The Platinum Edition Package adds many great options. The heated steering wheel is great on cold mornings! Seats are comfortable. CVT keeps the ride smooth while accelerating. I even considered the Lincoln MKZ before deciding that the Maxima was the overall winner.

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  Nissan wins again - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Confident Customer - March 28 - 3:00 pm

  Had this car for 2 years. I have 120k miles on it. Asside from regular maintenance, I have had no problems. It drives very nicely in all conditions. Awesome for long hauls on the highway. Plenty of power when you need it. This car is the best one I have ever owned, and I plan to drive it until the wheels fall off.

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  Love my maxima !!! - 2013 Nissan Maxima
  By tuscansun13 - March 24 - 3:37 pm

  Well I can say Im a loyal maxima owner. I owned all together 8 maximas all brand new and loaded to the max. Its the perfect car from sporty to luxury. In fact some people call me the maxima lady. I would gladly continue to purchase them. I own a 2013 sv maxima premium package ect.... Any where from heated seats , steering wheel, ground effects, back up camera, dual roof panels , Bose system ,Leather bucket seats So, if your in need of a new car test driver a maxima.

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  nissan maxima 2007 - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Dave Murano - March 23 - 7:53 pm

  very stylish, reliable and powerful. i bought black and when clean, it is a head turner. 5th maxima I have owned and each one gets better. literally zero mechanical issues, very solid. fun to drive.

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  Super Star - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By PES - March 23 - 6:03 am

  Have had this since new and am completely satisfied! Engine is smooth as silk and has had zero problems in almost 100K miles. Body styling is becoming classic. Smooth ride tight steering great road grip. Only gripe, and thats minor, is the limited turning radius.

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  Awesome Car All Around - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By love my maxima! - March 22 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this baby 5 years and never a problem. The fit and feel are wonderful. Ever try to find a car that DOESNT have annoying features? This is it. Everything is well designed and thoughtfully placed. It gives a smooth and QUIET ride.