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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The Best Maxima - 2007 Nissan Maxima
By maximaday - February 19 - 6:44 amIve had my Maxima since March 2010. I bought a 2007 Maxima SE 23,000 miles with the Leather and Sensor package. Slate is the best color for the Maxima I think. But Id take a white 2012 in a heartbeat. Ive sold Nissans since 2008 and I know their the best cars out there. And Nissan spends more money on the quality of the materials to last longer. The CVT makes it a bit slow off the line but I dont need a G35.
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Great Car - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By chap06 - February 18 - 12:23 amThis is my first MAX and it is a fantastic car. I am impressed with the power but would give a little of it up for improved MPG...average 23 mpg. It is comfortable and responsive. This car makes me want to drive it all day long...If it is power you need with style and comfort this car is for you!
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Dual Sun Roof Disaster - 2011 Nissan Maxima
By sbottari - February 17 - 6:01 amNothing but problems with my 2011 dual sun (or moon) roof. Last summer car was brand new and in the shop of a month. Well summer is here again and the car is back in the shop. Im not sure if its the tracks that have a problem when they get heated by the sun but I feel like I got a real lemon. Everything including the roof lining interior has already been replaced once. Here we go again ;-(
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Real Step Up - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By #3 maxima - February 15 - 10:00 amThis is my 3rd Maxima (I lease a new one every three years) and the SL is such a step up from my loaded 2000 GLE, it feels like I moved up to the power and performance I would expect from a $50,000 car. Sticker Price- $31,900. People stop and look and ask questions. Quiet, fast and luxurious..
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Nissan Kicks some Major Ass! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Clark Kent - February 15 - 10:00 am265 Horsepower Motor Excellent Handling Fantastic Luxury Drives like a Dream Come True! Good Job Nissan.
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Cant get repair parts from Nissan - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By Al D - February 14 - 11:46 pmI loved my Maxima until the air conditioner died while on vacation (38000 miles) and now a coolant part which failed will be on back order for a total of 5 weeks before it it ships. I cant drive the car which only has 57000 miles on it. The Nissan consumer department hasnt helped so beware of the support you get after the purchase.
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Great car! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
By SHAWN B - February 11 - 4:30 amThis car a really been a great buy. We avg (city/hwy) about 25 mpg. The motor is solid. Seats feel great. lots of power. I couldnt ask for more except the turning is absolutely ridiculous. Not sure who dropped the engineering ball on that one, but the positives definitely outweigh the negatives!!
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Maximas rule - 1998 Nissan Maxima
By Maciek - February 10 - 10:00 amI bought the car used, with 120K miles. Possitives: It is beautiful champagne outside and tan leather/black and wood dash. Bose is great, engine terrific, lots of room front and back, dash layout fantastic. Negatives: Electronics are extremely touchy, had to replace burnt fans for the radiator, HVAC is acting up (sometimes wont blow air) Overall great car. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.
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Awsome in every way - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Ls - February 10 - 10:00 amLove everything so far!
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Great Car - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By Maganga - February 4 - 10:00 amAt 58000 miles the car is great. Never been to a delear for repair.
