Nissan Maxima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.52/5 Average
3,122 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 3001 through 3010 of 3,122.00
  • CRASH TEST ...FAULTS - 2016 Nissan Maxima
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    2016 Nissan Maxima rating .....a rear end collision will result in gas spillage from gas tank ..... Rubber o-ring is faulty. Rear fender wells are "indoor/outdoor carpet" lined and deteriorate with high pressure spry cleaning.

  • Sexy Stylish and Fun - 2006 Nissan Maxima
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    I had a Toyota and wanted something little more sytlish and fun. I purchased the 2006 Nissan SL Maxima. Its not only a family car, but its also sexy and fun without the kids.

  • After 4 Nissans, this may be my last - 2004 Nissan Maxima
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    First Ill confirm the complaints others had: 3 peeling grilles replaced under warranty before I gave up, turning radius make this care a bear to park, plastic trim pieces in interior are easily scratched. The final blow for me: Im burning 1 qt oil/750 miles. I do frequent oil changes and have never abused the car. I noticed the problem at around 65K and now have 80K. Dealer says, "sorry out of warranty".

  • my car - 1999 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    very nice car to drive and own. Highly recommended for everybody who wants a highly dependable vehicle.

  • 05 Maxima SL - 2005 Nissan Maxima
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    Overall nice car. I had it for 6 months. Transmission is lazy in traffic. Dont step on it or your on board computer will show your MPG going as far down as 12MPG through out an average of normal and traffic driving. Most confortable ride ever. Make sure to opt for the driver preffered package. I didnt and I am sorry now. Stereo is great. Heated seats take a litle too long to warm up. Neat features that let you open the front windows from the remote (why not all 4, I cant understand...). Plenty of space for 5, comfortable with 4 on board. Overall, I believe it is a great car for the money. I cant wait to see what the 2008 will have to bring to the table...Its worth it and ready to move up

  • My new(used) 2000 Maxima SE - 2000 Nissan Maxima
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    My experiebce thus far has been exceptional. I have only had it for a week and already everybody loves it. This is the most fun-to-drive car I have ever known or owned!!

  • Impressive.. - 2001 Nissan Maxima
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    I was incredibly impressed by the car. After driving a fully loaded Sentra, I wanted more. I was very impressed by all the features and power thats available..Both Nissans we already owned before the Maxima have been very reliable, and so far, this is no exception.. even at 42,000 miles.

  • Disappointed - 2004 Nissan Maxima
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    The car which should be the most exciting to drive is but, at the same time its the most disappointing. The quality of the interior is horrid. Have had it to dealerships 6 times because of fog, crud, slime on back side of dashboard display panel. The leather seats are loosely covered as if with a leather slip cover. Car looked heavily used after barely a week of ownership. This fun car to drive is a big big disappointment.

  • Shame On Nissan - 2003 Nissan Maxima
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    I just Purchased my vehicle and loved it for the 3 days I had it in one piece. To My horror, I walk outside on the 4th day to see my HID headlights are GONE! After filing a complaint at the police staion, I find that this is an ongoing problem with Nissans design. The Lights are easy to pop out and the car horn (alarm) can easily be disconnected by sticking your hand in the front grill and pulling the wire. NISSAN, WHAT WERE YOUR DESIGNERS THINKING OF?! To top it off, the Nissan Parts and service station charge over $4,000 to replace the bulbs (at $750 a piece).

  • The Problem Car - 2009 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    My car was making a roaring noise so I took it to the dealer. The just about replaced the whole front it. The problems with the air condition was exhausting they had to replace the compressor, condenser and found out it was the intake sensor. Now the car is making a squeaking in the back which now it means it need shocks. This car has to many kinks in it that wasnt worked out.

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