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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  2011 Maxiima 3.5 SV--fully loaded - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By maxima_in_nc - August 29 - 3:43 pm

  The short list was between Genesys V6, Infinity G37 and the Maxima. The $ value proposition favored the Maxima hands down and the test drives sealed the deal. Perf & Tech packages were added as I wanted all the bells & whistles. My three month ownership experience vs. expectation align well. The V6 is more than enough @ 290hp with a responsive power train. The suspension is smooth without being cushy. The interior while below the Infinity does not leave one lacking. Visibility & ride quality are tops. Driving this car is pure fun. Thanks to the DVD tool grasping the all the technology was simplified. Premium Fuel is a downer and something Nissan should address especially @ 26 mph highway

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  Maxima Relief - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Manny Andujar - August 29 - 1:03 pm

  My 2005 Maxima is a lemon just like all other 2005 Maximas. When your left speakers blow out(hit the side of the center console until they work again.) The transmission slips horribly. I have dealt with this for 2 years. I have finally found out what it is and no matter how bad, this should always fix it(there is a green module or sensor behind the throttle body. It is hidden towards the back against the firewall. Play with this, it should start to improve immediately do it everytime you turn the car on) I have been doing it for 2 weeks and am satisfied. Those of you who do not have maximas, DO NOT BUY NISSAN. The styling is nice but the problems are infinite. The car is only good for 1 year

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  High performer, needs a little TLC - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By G-Man - August 28 - 5:03 am

  This car has been a high performer. The car is 7.5 years old and has 97000 miles on it. It feels like it still has a lot left. I cant imagine why people pay twice the price for european cars. However, the exhaust (not just the muffler and pipes) system is a little too complex to be as reliable as it should be. The Dealer told me to use premium gas, but could not convey the technical reasons. So maintenance costs are higher than a Camry or Accord, but this car performs a lot better.

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  Very Happy Nissan Owner - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Threeride - August 28 - 2:00 am

  So far it has been pure pleasure. Plenty of power to spare with the smooth shifting automatic. I really like the comfort of the seats and the factory stereo with 7 speakers is more than adequate. The exterior lighting is fabulous -- night driving no longer an issue. Handling is good and will improve when I get new tires.

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  1 year Maxima Owner - Still Love It - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Go_Nissan_Max - August 28 - 1:16 am

  Ive owned a Premium+Tech Maxima for nearly 1 year now with 0 defects and 22 MPG avg. The ride and drive is a perfect blend of luxury and Performance - 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 secs, yet a nice comfortable ride on the highway. Very little road noise at highway speeds. I came very close to buying a Lexus GS350 but found the performance + cost superior in the Maxima. Same story with M35. I already owned a TL, so I didnt want to do that again;-) The Maxima also does a great job at the little stuff like a strong A/C system, large glove box, great iPOD integration, large map and cup holders, and easy to read owners manual. Finally, the bold exterior lines on this car are amazing!!

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  2002 Black on Black SE 6M - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By 2002 Black SE 6M - August 26 - 7:23 pm

  This is a great car fun to drive. Gas mileage is pretty good. It requires premium gas at least 91 octane. I used 87 octane and the car sounded like a diesel engine. Not good! Spend the little extra money and use premium and the car will run a lot better. This is my 2nd Maxima. I previously owned a 94 Maxima GXE, kept it til 235,000 miles and everything still worked. I plan to do the same with this car. Everything is laid out pretty nice and easy to use, Bose stereo sounds w/sub really great. Ride is a bit rough on bumpy roads, but its an SE with sports suspension. GLE I suppose will have a better ride, but you cant beat the handle on the SE with 6sp gear box. Which rare car to find!

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  Awesome old Maxima - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Calmadre - August 24 - 4:30 pm

  Bought as a lease return. This car currently (2/2010) has 250k miles. Minimum maintenance.Im religious about 3k oil changes. I LOVE this car. It is going on 16 yrs. and I have no worrys about long distance trips. Nissan is the BEST. I figured I spend about $600. yr in repairs. Can anybody beat that?

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  Good Relief - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By d_allison - August 23 - 11:50 pm

  After driving a 95 f150 for a while it was a pleasure to drive this car, the fuel mileage was way better, and the performance was outstanding. My only complaint is that it doesnt look the part. the "Bose" sound system is incredible. i wish we had bought the traction control for it cause i dont even go mid throttle sometimes and the wheels just spin away from all the low end torque. This car is an excellent daily driver after driving a 3 ton brute every where. But i would highly recommend this car for anyone who wants a thrill, with an above average fuel economy.

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  2002 nissan maxima se - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By kvhinton - August 23 - 10:00 am

  excellent car. my 6 speed is a rocket. 50,000 trouble free miles so far.

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  One Kick-Ass Car! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By BigDH - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Awesone styling, fast (great 3.5 V6), top-notch handling, great stereo, good ergonomics. Overall, a very good value compared to other near-luxury cars on the market today. For the price, the standard features are generous and beat the pants off entry luxury cars like the BMW 330 and Audi A4.