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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Nissan is the best - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Bomber - March 22 - 10:00 amI think that the nissan maxisma is the best car in the world.
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Best car Ive had! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Lori schneider schneidee - March 22 - 3:19 amIm getting another one. Its been perfect for me! Only your normal wear and tear repairs with over 140,000 miles. Great power and comfort ability. Best option by far is the heated steering wheel up here in the cold northern mornings.
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Move over BMW! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
By Greatone - March 20 - 9:13 pmI just leased a 2010 Maxima SV with the monitor and cold package. This car flies! I mean you put the petal to the metal and you get on the highway real quick. This is a car that will make others turn their heads. I also got the new color, crimson black, which looks very luxurious. I have had two previous versions of the Maxima, and this by far is the best.
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Best car ive owned so far - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Pukestorm82 - March 20 - 2:23 amI purchased my car exactly 1 year ago with 72k miles, now it has 90k and have had no problems at all besides general maintenance. After reading all the bad reviews about transmission problems I bought a 3 year extended warranty and have yet to use it.
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Same Old Same Old - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By valtch - March 17 - 10:00 amAsked dealer not to give me firestone or bridgstone tires. it turned out that all my bridgstone tires were replaced by goodyear eagles. Car rides harder than any new car I have ever been in. It is extremely powerful but has horrible gas mileage. seats are comfortable. I have a bad back. Extras are an expensive ripoff. 2000 nissan maxima was a better car. these cars need independent rear suspension. Would I buy another maxima? not a chance. far over-priced for what you get.
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The "ultimate highway cruiser." - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By kmessner - March 17 - 10:00 amI drive 150 miles (round trip) to work everyday in my 2001 Nissan Maxima (20th Anniversary Edition). This car is the ultimate highway cruiser. Most of my miles are high speed and the Nissan responds with great performance and handling through all types of weather. I strongly recommend this vehicle to anyone who must travel long distances .... it is fun to drive!
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Touch of Class - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By navy_121212 - March 17 - 10:00 amI have owned 15 cars in my life. The overall best buy. The handeling is superior.
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Very good but not great - 2008 Nissan Maxima
By Kojak - March 16 - 11:50 pmThis car has so much potential but.... I researched cars for months looking for a replacement for my 99 5 speed Maxima. Ended up with another Max although was not pleased with the transmission choice. The CV tranny is ok, smooth and quiet, but leaves you feeling disconnected from the engine and the road. I feel much less like Im driving a sports sedan and more like dads buick. The car is very roomy, heat and a/c works well, leather is nice, the car looks nice too. The tires and rims look great, but the tires are too low profile resulting in a really rough ride. Have already blown out one front strut. Did not like the Bose radio in my old Max and the one in my 08 is worse.
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A better G - 2010 Nissan Maxima
By paul - March 16 - 9:33 amJust leased a SV with premium and tech packages. Got a super deal. Coming out of a G35x. The drivers seat on the Maxima is more comfortable with the heated seat also warming your back. Cannot wait to try the ac in the seat. You can reach the seat power adjusters easier on this car. Performance is very near the Infinity but slightly improved gas economy.The nav system is very easy to ues. The bluetooth works just as in the G, Nissan parts commonality at work. I drive more than 20,000 miles a year and this car has enough tech stuff to make that a a pleasure. I think is a great value compared to most entry level luxury competitors.
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Very Good Value - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By John J - March 16 - 3:20 amI purchased my vehicle in May 2005. Negotiated hard and got it off the lot at dealer invoice plus an aggressive trade-in value. I love the car. It has performance, comfort and good looks all at a price signficantly lower than cars with a higher brand name. My only complaint is that the door handles are hollow and feel cheap and the gas milage is a little less than advertised. But if you are looking for a comfortable car with most options standard and good performance and not worried about the brand name, the Nissan Maxima is for you.
