2002 Nissan Maxima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
311 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Maxima receives updates this year that make it less of a family sedan and more of an entry-level luxury sport sedan. Headlining this year's upgrades is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces a stunning 255 horsepower. For maximum performance, sport-tuned SE models now combine this engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Other changes include revised exterior styling, additional feature content and an optional GPS navigation system.

Pros:
  • Impressively powerful V6 engine, sports car moves, plenty of room for five adults.
Cons:
  • Odd styling details, high price, rough ride quality with SE suspension.

User Reviews:

Showing 301 through 310 of 311.00
  • WORTH IT - BUY IT - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    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.

  • Best bang for the buck - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    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.

  • LOVE THIS CAR !!!! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    just bought my wife a preowened 02 maxima SE with 12k miles on it. wow! is all I can say. we have had 3 other maximas before this one and it just keeps getting better. great car, great pickup, awesome reliability all we have done was maintenace and pay our insurance. I wouldnt waste you time looking at stripped down Hondas and Toyotas for the same money. Go out Buy a Maxima you wont regret it. As for those driving the BMW 3 series ill race your $40k car and guess what? you will lose! This car is awesome!

  • Super sedan! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Sold an 03 Vette to getthis Nissan cause of my growing family size. Fit and finish of Nissan blows chevy away. I got a loaded se 6 speed and it has more bells and whistles than the vette I had. Its not as fast and doesn handle like a vette but for a 4door it sure does feel sporty. The gearing takes a lil gettin used to as its a close ratio 6 speed but its fun to drive as long as traffic isnt an issue. I love this car and it is far better than the 88,89, and 94 maximas Ive owned.

  • If it were not for the paint......... - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    This car has been wonderful so far. The performance and looks combined with the price make it a tough car to match. The torque steer is always there, but it is a small price to pay for being able to have the engine. No mechanical problems so far-20,000 miles.

  • 2002 Maxima SE - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    This is a great car. Ive been a Toyota fan for years, but the Maxima advertising campaign coaxed me into trying something new. Engine performance is outstanding, going from 70mph to 90mph without hesitation nor strain, almost instantly. Solid construction is noticibly better than my 2000 Camry.

  • Most luxory in a sedan well under $30k - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Jam packed with tons of new features and options. Available safety features include side air bags, traction control, active head restraints (standard), ABS (standard). Would highly recomend purchaser consider traction control for vehicle, especially if to be used in any snow or ice conditions. Markedly improved performance over Maximas without it in specific circumstances.

  • 2002 Black on Black SE 6M - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    From my other review. 2002 Black on Black SE 6M 3/17/08. OK! What I stated before still stand, but we need to slam Nissan or the horrible, just horrible OIL CONSUMPTION PROBLEM. This car does consumes oil. It will run normal for the most part and if your not careful and check the the oil level you can and will do damage to the motor. I keep a 5qt bottle of castrol high milage. After 200 mi of driving or so I have to add a qt or two of oil. Thats right! Nissan wont admit to this problem. dont bother with synthetic if it consumes oil. The burn off is costly with that oil. I tried just about everything excepting changing the engine. Good luck....

  • They dont make them like the used to... - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    I must say I have been a bit disappointed with this generation Maxima. My 97 SE was amazing, but somewhere in the crossing over, Nissan focused too much on power and not enough on the driver. The Bose sound system is a joke, the electronic seats are great but stopped working right after I bought it, the interior feels cheap and allows lots of wind noise. Fan for heater makes horrible grinding noise, so loud in fact it can be heard outside the car; how embarrassing! The styling and everything about this car feels old and worn out...I just want to get rid of it but Im stuck with loads of negative equity!! Yikes!!

  • Loves to run - 2002 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    I was drawn by Nissans reputation for reliability and snared by Maximas sheer driving fun. This is my first Maxima having last owned a Mazda 626. I didnt think I could afford a car that offered enough room for my outsized old body and was fun to drive too. The BMWs, Jag X-types, Audis, Acura TLs and Lexus IS300s were nice and expensive. But this car got me with its combination of features, power, build quality and fun drive train at a bargain price. I love the way this cars eager to run. I get up the mountain to ski MUCH faster than before and I find the trip to be more comfy too.

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