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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  Keep on giving me check engine lights - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By nissan_no_good - June 5 - 11:43 pm

  Dont know if Im just unlucky on this car or what, starting around 80k miles, check engine light keeps on coming back, I replaced 4 o2 sensors so far (the 1st one was actually around 50k miles), now the check engine is on again for p0325. Since then Ive spent more than $5000 repairing o2 sensor and other issues. Every time I tell myself this is a good car, this is the last time Ill need to spend big money on it. It just never stops. Im selling it now.

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  95 Max GLE - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By ger3sf - June 5 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car privately ($11.5K) in summer of 1999 with 57K miles, and now with 77K miles. Used as a second car when transporting 3-4 people, cargo, or whenever I dont want to drive my Z3 or Boxter. Always gets dealer servicing every 6 months, and insist on OEM replacements where possible. Had one breakdown in summer 2003 due to failed starter. Good quality, inexpensive hauler that allows me to have 2-seaters for daily driving.

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  Dont Do It - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Justin - June 4 - 10:00 pm

  Purchased my Maxima with 33k miles in 2004. Ran great and very reliable until around 2008. The maxima began to barrage me with check engine lights, needed an 02 sensor, brakes, MAF problems, muffler holes, and the list goes on. The car now has 124k miles and it is time to move on. As soon as I get one thing fixed, another thing goes down and I cant keep up with it. The car is very fun to own and I love the look and power of it but I cant keep up with the maintenance. According to the internet, 2001 Maximas are prone to every problem you can think of! Dont buy one!

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  Good, but needs a tighter turning radius - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Max - June 4 - 8:13 pm

  This model is a good size for what I need. My 2 sons have plenty of room in the rear.

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  2000 Maxima GXE (5 speed) - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Mykal - June 4 - 10:00 am

  We love this car and see ourselves in a few years going to a Nissan dealer and saying, "We want the same thing, but newer!" Its that good. Powerful, fun, roomy, looks good. Maximas only keep getting more powerful (hard to imagine, but even more fun!). They need to work on the notchy manual transmission! Its the only real sore spot about this car.

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  WHAT A BEAUTIFUL CAR AT A GREAT PRICE!!! - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Bpool421 - June 4 - 10:00 am

  This is the best sedan on the market right now, and has been the best sedan on the market for the last three or four years. The engine, drivetrain, and suspension make this the easiest and most painless buy in the automotive world. I would pay even more than I actually did for a Maxima.

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  Great Car! - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By TurboPenguin - June 3 - 9:43 pm

  replaced my 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue! Thank goodness! I am extremely impressed! The inside is wonderful but could definitely have more leg room. The Tilt on the steering wheel makes it hard to see everything. Mechanics are great! Shifts perfect revs high and im getting 27MPG with a mix of Freeway and City! Best car for its size!!

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  First Max.. I Love Forever - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By tcoopdeville76 - May 31 - 9:56 am

  First time owning a max and I absolutely love this car! This car is for the family guy that has a bit of an edge. it is not a hard core sports car but it can definitely compete. The acceleration is instant; With the CVT, the shifting is seamless and smooth. The interior is luxurious. I own an SV Premium/Tech with all the bells and whistles. I have 3 kids and they fit comfortable in the back seat. When Im without the kids.. the family car goes away and the sports car comes out! This was by far the best car for me.

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  Good but not perfect - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By alorents - May 28 - 2:36 pm

  I bought my Nissan Maxima GLE in 2006 it had 94k. Overall the car is great but it does have some problems. So far I had to replace my starter (which is to be expected), the O2 sensor, had trouble with throttle control motor relay and power windows control switch. The car does not perform as well during cold season. It takes a long time to warm up, engine throttle and transmision do not respond as fast, power windows are slow during cold weather. Rides pretty good but the trunk ratells while driving. Gas mileage could be better.

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  Bulletproof Car - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By 97vq30de - May 27 - 9:08 pm

  I bought this car with 188k miles. It now has 231k miles. This is my second car. Ive replaced wear and tear parts like any other car would go through. Ive done some upgrades. Fun to drive. 120mph + stays glued to the ground. I get 24mpg 70city/30hwy. The engine is very quiet, even under load. Awesome Bose audio system. Great looking exterior, especially when lowered with wide wheels ;). Plenty of cargo space. A lot of visibility; easy to park. My girlfriend liked it over her Ford Focus. I plan to keep this car until it literally starts to fall apart. Very good job Nissan.