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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  I love this Poor mans Loaded AUDI. - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Jazze - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I bought a winter mist White color with pearl finish) with Elite package. This is the best car I have driven. 3 times better than Volvo S80 and 4 times btter than Accord. T traded my 6 month old accord to get this baby and I am so happy. I test drove BMW 325i. It doesnt even come close in features and comfort.

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  Get Ready To Turn Heads - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By blaine - January 3 - 2:00 am

  Finally the maxima has returned to glory! Very fast and a blast to drive. Kudos to Nissans ubiquitous V6. Exterior styling will guarantee head turns and may cause "neck breaker" accidents as well. Interior follows the 350Z style and is a pleasure to look at. Minor issue with build. Clock set button was stuck. No problem though, corrected. This car is being marketed for performance seekers who like a taste of luxury. If you want pure luxury, go somewhere else.

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  luxury without the price! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By audra - January 3 - 2:00 am

  Just bought one! Great car, fun to drive. There are a few things about the interior and the front grill I would change, but all in all it is very comfortable, drives like a sports car! Nissan makes a really reliable automobile.

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  Good sporty car - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By mj - January 2 - 5:56 am

  I bought my maxima 3 years ago as used, 40 k miles on it. Now it has 100 k miles and it still drives like new. Bose system is awesome. Power is also great. sport suspension is a little stiff , but you get better handling with it. Since Ive owned it I changed tires, oil, battery and some exhaust pieces. Tires are expensive ($800 for the set), original tires worked for 50 k miles. Drivers seat leather has some cracks, I guess its normal for that mileage. If driving over 70 mph, there is some wind noise. Overall, a solid quality sedan.

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  1997 Nissan Maxima SE Review - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Tinbird - December 29 - 10:00 am

  Attractive, fun, safe car. [Engine] performance superior in many regards to most competitors, though suspension is merely adequate (unforgivable for Nissan to forego true 4-wheel independent suspension when many competitors have been doing so for years). Also, while the car is enjoyable to drive and reliable, fit- and-finish is merely "average." Finally dealership support is very typical: long waits; dubious sales/service tactics; premium prices. Overall, definitely a GOOD car (safe and reliable); in some ways a VERY GOOD car (potent engine and nice [optional] "creature comforts"); but not quite a GREAT car (mediocre suspension, fit-and-finish).

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  Great Value - Amazing Power - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By rehcmh - December 29 - 10:00 am

  After 350 miles, I am confident I made the right choice. Styling, both inside and outside stand out from other cars. Lots of features for the money. Powerful engine (sometimes hard to control) a major plus. Center console is packed with buttons, sometimes confusing. Auto climate control sometimes makes bad choices. Avg 21 MPG

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  2005 maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By TMoore - December 28 - 8:06 am

  I own a 2005 Nissan and I get lots of compliments and several friends purchased one after I allowed them to drive mine. Awesome torque on the highway, great maneuvering and handling. This is my 2nd Maxima and I really enjoy my car however, my a/c was out of coolant after @18 months. I only received notice about 1 recall, dislike cheap interior panel. Motor mounts needed replacing after around 86K

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  I love mine too! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Karen - December 25 - 1:50 pm

  I had been admiring this model for some time in a parking garage, so externally I already loved it, but then when I sat in one, I was "all in" visually. Shopped around looking at other models, then walked in to a dealership to test drive. Let me say I came from a older Honda CR-V which was practical but with no pizazz, so I was ready for something more "dynamic." The seat comfort is quite nice, love the sound system, the ride is quick (I love that!) when I need it be be, and smooth all the time. Prior to my SUV, I have owned some pretty nice luxury cars in the past, but I have to say this one has it all for me. I read every single review for this car on this site, which was helpful. Thanks!

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  Very Fun to Drive - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By brewboy13 - December 25 - 4:20 am

  First of all this is the most fun car to drive that I have ever owned. I have some minor complaints. I went from a 95 Max to this. I expected a better upgrade with some features. The int. is poorly laid out & semi-poor quality. In some ways the 95 Max had better quality features. The Bose has weak bass & the radio reception is awful. My wife has an 04 Accord which is far more comfortable but not as fun to drive. I guess I would love it if I could trade interiors with her Accord. Also the ride could be smoother on the SL model. It rides a little more stiff than it should feeling every bump. My 95 Max was just as smooth which this one should superior. With that said I still love the car.

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  Review of 1999 Maxima - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By John E. Booker - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Experience wonderful. Gutsy 5 speed with lot of torque. Extremely confortable on long trips and drives like a dream. Car is very roomy and controls are well laid out and gages are easy to read.