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 really loved this car - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Wendell - October 9 - 3:23 pm

  I bought this car in Sept. 08 and it is now June. The car had 192,000 and now has 224,000. In spite of that the only things I did to the car was update the tires and a couple of oil changes and the car runs GREAT. I love the powerful engine and the trany. Im on the road all day for work and this car makes my job more enjoyable. Even though I didnt get it with leather seats, a cd player, sun roof or any other luxuries I am crazy about this car. Who knows... if I were to get a car with all the other luxuries... I might lose my mind :).

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  Love it! Hate it! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Love it!Hate it! - October 6 - 3:50 pm

  I purchased this car 3 years ago and since I have had to replace the front struts for the third time with only 57000 miles its too much. My transmission started skipping and kicking at 52000 was replaced under warranty and now the engine Mounts which are extremely expensive are out.This is besides some electrical issues with the lights. So you can imagine why I hate it.

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  Max - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Sarah - October 6 - 9:53 am

  This is truly an amazing car. I have driven many cars and trucks in the past but this one turly takes the cake. For a 1997 modle this is a very modern car. You realize the comfort and respect every time you get into it. This car is very reliable and I would trust it in any condition.It works great in snow and on dirt roads. It has a lot of space in all the right places. This is truly a great modle of car.I would even be comfortable to recomend at as a first car for your teen. It is just amazing, all the things that you can accomplish with this car. If you are looking into this car I would recomend you getting prepared for the ride of your dreams. This car doesnt leave any rock unturned.

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  Awsome Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Chris A - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2001 and liked it allot, but Nissan has out-done themselves with this one. I drove the G-35 first and then checked out the Max. I honestly could not find 1 thing I liked better about the G-35. After a month of owning it I still find myself thinking of excuses to run to the store and take the car out for a spin. I still have a blast driving this car. Turns allot of heads, and when you put your foot down... VRRRROOOOOOM!

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  Great Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By markkal - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Has great mileage. Getting 25.5 mpg. Has excellent agility and performance. Great brakes, saved me 1 time. Had too stomp on the brakes (brake assist) Very comfy interior.

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  It was great...what happened - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Mikey Z - September 28 - 10:00 am

  This was a great car for the first two years that I owned it. But as the miles have racked up it really hasnt help up like other Nissans Ive had. There are all sorts of nasty sounds that this car makes when accelerating and the transmission just doesnt like to be driven at anything over half throttle or itll bang around or not shift at all. Lots of pinging. The stereo has broken. The A/C is noisy. Just stuff I wouldnt expect from a Nissan. Yes...Ive had it in and out of the dealer and mechanics. Theyve replaced things...only for them to break again. Definite disappointment. Should have bought a 99.

• 

  nice car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By ladymaxs - September 28 - 10:00 am

  i had to order mine,I have the radiant ember with burnt orange leather 4 seater,elite pk,navigation is fully loaded.It runs like all 265 horses are right there its a good running car I like it.I had 1990 it was cool 2

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  Its okay, but I wish Id gotten a G35 - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By dlc - September 25 - 5:16 am

  Overall, a nice car - no mechanical issues whatsoever. Its powerful, especially as the horsepower takes over, and would really benefit from rear-wheel drive as torque-steer can be problematic. I find the gearbox and handling a bit squishy, but Im coming from a Miata. The trunks hinges extend into what would be usable space, reducing the trunks capacity. The back seats appear to be reasonably comfortable, but Ive never sat back there! Significant wind noise from the sunroof wind deflector. I would be a much bigger fan if the mileage were not so bad, and if the trip computer didnt lie about it, which it consistently does in most/all 02 Maximas (making me believe its intentional).

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  250 miles into it and loving it! - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By tmac4718 - September 22 - 6:09 pm

  3.5 SV silver premium package. Fun to drive but babying it through break in period. It was this or a 2011 Charger AWD max, tough choice for me. Loved the charger but just found the maxima more refined and comfortable for 20k miles a year and concerned with dodge reliability. But I gave up the Hemi and AWD for the maxima. Love the car more everyday Im in it. I get alot of looks because maximas are a rare care now, which I love. The hood and the bulges make the car pop from inside and out. I had an 08 altima 2.5SL lease before and loved it as well. Maxima is twice as much fun to drive so i bought this one. Getting 20mpg around town so far, no highway trips yet. Torque steer is present but ok

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  owesome max. 04 - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By esaujaguar - September 22 - 2:00 am

  had a sentra first. very nice compact. It doesnt compare at all to the max. 04 I wanted to get the altima, but when I saw the new maxima I went wowwwwww.!!!!!!! It handles very nice in tight curves and the engine power is fenomenal!!!!!!