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:

• 

  my Maxima ownership experience - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By John Rawlings - November 14 - 1:20 pm

  This is a stylish, comfortable car with lots of interior and trunk space. It accommodates the roomy interior needs for a family better than any modern mid-to-full sized sedan in this price range. The maxima successfully combines comfort,sportiness(fun&fast) and luxury. The car corners good & shifts seamlessly on acceleration. EPA estimates (22/28)I have found to be unattainable under normal driving conditions. Reality:20-21 city or hwy. The turn radius makes this car tough to park in congested places. It tends to be very hard on bumps and noisy. I have owned my Maxima 2.5 years and notice the shiny trim around the windshield fading bad (the car is garaged at night).

• 

  So Long Acura, Hello Maxima!!! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Kenny C. - November 14 - 12:30 am

  I traded my Acura in for this new Maxima.I ordered it with the elite package,(burnt orange leater). This car turns heads... Everything about this car is tight. Interior is about as plush as it gets. Acura/Honda better get back to the drawing board. This car is so much smoother than my Acura. The engine is quiet and powerful. The controls are easy to understand. The interior is very roomy. I hope I can get the same years of service with this Nissan as I did with the Acura, (8years). That will be the true test.

• 

  Nissan Maxima - Maximum performance and style - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Crysco - November 13 - 3:16 pm

  This car rides like a high end automobile.

• 

  satisfied customer - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By demore - November 12 - 12:33 pm

  I drive approximately 2000/month all over the state of PA and am intending to drive Maxima to Florida in Jan. I have had no problems. This is my third Maxima. I always get it loaded with options, especially the sunroof.

• 

  New Nissan Owner - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By jenns - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I previously drove an Infiniti J30 and was skeptical as to whether I could replace it with any car. The Nissan is great to drive! I love the radio on the steering wheel and the faux suede accents on the interior. The dash is clean and streamlined, unlike other cars with BIG dials. I selected the regular sunroof (a must for me) over the roof windows and I am very happy with everything. I test drove alot of cars including Infiniti, Acura and Mercedes and quickly selected the Maxima. The engine power is outstanding and highway driving is a breeze.

• 

  could be better - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Dirt E - November 9 - 3:40 pm

  I expected this car to be reliable but i have had to change a lot with the coils and the sensors. It does have impressive performance and from just a visual perspective it is a beauty, but it shouldnt have that many problems.

• 

  Fun car, HORRIBLE turn ratio! - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Sarry - November 9 - 10:00 am

  I have always driven Hondas. Decided to turn in my Honda Civic for a 2008 Nissan Maxima. Totally FUN to drive! Blow by people while barely pushing in the accelerator! Overall a really nice car. Gas mileage not great but its a souped up V6 sports car, I expected that. The one MAJOR complaint I have is the turn ratio! I have to practically make a three-point turn to get into a parking space. Trading it in because of those two things. Cant stand it anymore. I can barely get through a coffee drive through! Put good tires on it and its actually pretty good in the snow for a CAR. Traction control.

• 

  Fast and fun - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Chris - November 9 - 10:00 am

  I compared the Maxima to an Audi, Mercedez, Cadillac and Lexus. By far, none can compete with the price or the luxury you get with the Maxima. I opted for the luxury package instead of the Sport package, added the spoiler and bought aftermarket rims. Lets just say that no one believes its a Maxima. This car is responsive, fast and very comfortable. Bluetooth and voice recognition work great. I average 28 miles on the highway, those that complain about the fuel economy need to understand that this car has 290 hp, get a 4 cylinder Corolla if you need to save on gas. I added a high flow air intake and the car roars. If you are looking for a comfortable, luxurious ride, this is it.

• 

  A lot of car for your money - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Greg - November 9 - 8:03 am

  Just recently purchased the Maxima and am very happy with the performance. I got the premium package and the premium tech package and I am still reading about all it has. The voice recognition/bluetooth for the mobile phone is very clear. The nav system is very good and the radio/XM is also top notch. Nothing really bad to say about anything so far. I would recommend highly to those considering.

• 

  never a problem - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By jack - November 8 - 11:13 am

  bought a 2000 max se, still have it @ 70000 miles... not a single problem, not even a light bulb... my new 2005 max se seems even better built... I thought my 2000 was peppy... the 2005 is really fast. These were my first non chrysler/gm/ford cars, I had been use to going back to the dealer the first week and from then on. Now, the only time I go is to buy a new car.