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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  Wonderful Car - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By bfleshner - March 31 - 5:06 pm

  Bought new in Jan. 2005, now have 80,000 and have had no problems whatsoever! Power is great, gas mileage is consistent at 22.5 in town and 29.0 on the freeway using 89 octane. Ive only had to do the regular maintenance, replaced tires and brakes at 68,000 with no surprises. Ride is on the firm side but thats why it handles so great.

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  Maxima rules - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By drjvet - March 31 - 12:33 pm

  I have owned a Toyota Camry for 5 years, but when I decided it was time to buy another car, the Camry could not hold a candle to the 07 Maxima SL. The Maxima is fun to drive, gets a lot of looks from other drivers and the CVT is fantastic. The BlueTooth phone system is absolutely the envy of all my passengers. Most passengers are impressed with all the luxury amenities for the price. The acceleration is powerful. I have approximately 600 miles on the car and have averaged 23 mpg in the city. Also test drove a Volvo S60 and the Maxima was more comfortable in both ride and interior comfort. This Maxima rules the road in both performance and style. Watch out Camry.

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  Max Rocks - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By madaboutmax - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I test drove Passats, Accords, Camreys, Legacys and domestic sedans before choosing the Maxima. The combination of power, built quality, design, resale, and reliability was just not matched by any of the others. Its simply the best car Ive ever owned and the best car Ive ever ridden in thats affordable.

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  2002 Maxima SE 6-speed - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By 2k2maxMD - March 28 - 10:00 am

  Had this car for two months now (2000 miles). Replaced a 1998 Honda Accord EX- V6 Coupe with this car. I am very satisfied with the ride even though is is not as smooth as the Accord Coupe was at high speeds (+70MPH). The clutch motion and engine are extremely smooth. The 6-disc sound system is par at best. The rear deck subwoofer sounds muddy and can only handle half the power without distorting. Wind noise at moderate speeds is noticable but bearable. In short, the Maxima has the ergonomics and all of the comforts that an average commuter is looking for; not exactly a Lexus, but the performance and lower price make this car a great buy.

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  Family sedan/ Sports car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Jet - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I am very happy with my Maxima. This car had really high ratings in consumer reports and has a very smooth ride. Exceptionally quiet on the high-way. I know several people that have owned maximas and not one is unhappy.

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  WORTH IT - BUY IT - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By K&B - March 28 - 10:00 am

  We looked at several full size cars, such as the Chevy Impala. While they were priced under the Maxima they did not come close to the craftmanship, design and performance of the Maxima. The car handles very well. It has a smooth ride and yet it drives like a performance car. The 3.5L engine can really accelerate the car well. It is pure fun to drive.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By MaximaJohn - March 28 - 10:00 am

  I went to town to buy either an Accord or Camry, but ended up coming home with a Nissan Maxima SE. Ive had a 97 & 99 Accord, so I know theyre good cars. I took a 02 Camry SE for a 10 mile test drive and liked the ride, but wanted to try the Maxima too. Its a great car, lots of power, and very comfortable. The things I dont like are the taillight design and not having the steering wheel controls (cruise, stereo, etc) illuminated at night. I really like the intense headlights and the stereo system. The moonroof and rear spoiler are nice too. For all I got on the Maxima SE, I would have only gotten a 4-cylinder Honda or Toyota.

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  What a CAR!! - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Brian - March 26 - 5:13 pm

  I recently gave this car to my brotherin law with 236,122 miles and it runs like it was new. The power, comfort and reliability are unbelievable. Everything on the engine is original and the only maintenance is regular oil and filter, tires, brakes and at 110k I replaced the belts, struts and plugs. Dont know why nissan would change such a great engine. My new 02 doesnt even stand up to the 96 as far as reliability or comfort.

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  First Max - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By NEscooter - March 25 - 10:00 am

  I only own the vehicle for about 3 weeks so far but have been thoroughly impressed already. The "fun to drive" factor is very high with all that power under the hood with what seems to be a good match in the suspension as well. It corners flat, and the engine pulls strong at any speed. The interior is unique. The heated leather seats and suede pannels on the doors compliment each other nicely (classy and unique). The Bose stereo is great. The "skyview" roof is also a nice feature.

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  90% BMW @ 50% price - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Xpditor - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Shockingly quick with occasional tugs- of-war with torque steer. My third Maxima (86,90). The 90 was problem free and pristine after 14 years. Depreciation less than $1k/yr. It took a while to get comfortable on trip until I got lumbar right. Dash and console are kinda cheesey. Armrest is flimsy. Lotsa plastic. LCD display has low resolution and monotone. Outdated technology. Gimme a break with the trendy 3 pod and look of aluminum. The grille should be covered around women and children. Its ooogly. Finally a 5 speed auto on the SL. A steal at the price theyre going for. Sprachen sie Japonese? You bet!