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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  2004 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SE 4dr Sedan - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Babulal - April 6 - 6:50 am

  I am experiencing problems since the first month I bought the car. It started Bose speakers, fog light. Speakers, rorets, check engine, head light keep blowing off few times and now they are saying that the wiring harness needs to be replaced which costs almost 450. Tire problems, the car stays at the dealer place more than my home. Now I am having auto gear problem. I pay another 400 to get fixed mounts. Now they are saying that the transmission is going out and needs to be replaced.

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  All but one.... - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Hartfordguyfaraway - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Very fun car to drive. The vehicle has a strong power source. Seats are a little uncomfortable, and most of all, most importantly,the turning radius is that of a limo. Very poor turning radius..trust me on this, i have driven some long cars. There is a considerable amount of road noise as well, you get used to it!.you can feel every bump and crack in the road, some probably like that feeling. Car has an unwanted shake in front end, dealer cant fix it. 55-65 mph all in all, good for the price, far from luxury though! Dealer very willing to push down price. SE w/500 of options paid $26,000 even! dont let them fool you...its not even 2004 yet.

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  In love w/ my ride!! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By DFran - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I saw it on the internet and knew I had to have it. I love the luxury feel, the cars appearance and ride. I had to have the leather and sun-roof. I am glad that I didnt get the BMW 325.

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  Love It, Love It, Love It! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By MLH - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I have always loved Nissan automobiles, but the Maxima is by far the best I have ever owned.

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  Max Max Baby - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By NiteStormm - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I couldnt ask for a sweeter car in the price range for style, class comfort and reliablty.

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  awesome - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By kmrfgs - April 5 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Nissan, when I first saw the Maxima I knew it was for me. Driving is an experience,smooth & confortable and yes she MOVES!!!

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  06 NISSAN MAXIMA SL EXCLLENT - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By Michael Schroll - April 5 - 8:36 am

  Weve put nearly 10000 miles on this car after buy it used. Fast sporty handling solid structor and good looking are the that best describe it. Combined with room for are family and Nissan reliablity. Id buy another.

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  Excellent car - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Phil - April 3 - 11:40 am

  Bought this 07 Maxima for $15,000 CDN this spring. It had 116,000 km. I am impressed with its power, handling, and comfort. The stereo is great and it came with new Toyo tires.

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  Bittersweet emotions - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By pp - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Bought my max new. Added billet grille & chrome wheels. So exciting! Major oil leak. Maintained by dealer exclusively (oil changed every 5,000 miles). At 105,000 the dealer recommended 10-30wt oil to muffle tapping noise in engine. Are hood, roof & trunk made of aluminum? Material is different than metal fenders. Although car was detailed professionally, the paint has totally faded and worn through to metal on hood & roof. Rest of ext is still shiny black. Embarrassing! Gray contact paper surrounding instr cluster is bubbling. Center console cushion has fallen off twice. Moonroof doesnt close without playing w/ switch. Auto tilt wheel doesnt always lift/lower when door opens.

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  2003 Nissan Maxima GLE - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By MrT - April 1 - 12:30 pm

  I really like this car. It has plenty of power, a roomy, comfortable interior, handles reasonably well, and does well in the snow. I bought this car used in 2006 with ~60k miles. It now has 95k. In that time, besides routine maintenance, Ive only had to replace the interior fan assembly which started making an annoying noise shortly after I bought it. It cost approximately $400 to replace. My friend has an Xterra which had a similar problem. The previous owner had taken out the stereo system so I got whatever the dealer put in. Im not an audiophile, but would say its got an adequate sound system. My wifes 2006 Toyota 4- runner has a better sounding system.