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:

• 

  Terrific value and FUN - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By rob - August 16 - 2:03 am

  Bought new in late 96 and have enjoyed this car every day I drive it! Smooth and powerful engine, quiet, decent gas mileage ~24 mpg, reliable and fun to drive. What more could you ask for? Also, very cheap to maintain as it has a timing CHAIN not belt. I feel that these older models had better quality materials than subsequent years, as Nissan ran into trouble not long afterwards and lowered material quality to cut costs. I know because the wife has an 00 Maxima and the interior materials used are of a lower quality.

• 

  Love this Car!! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Lynn - August 11 - 5:56 pm

  I love this car! I previously owned an 08 CTS and an 09 Acura TL and the 2010 Nissan Maxima is my favorite by far. I love the way it drives, quick pickup and smooth. It looks great inside and out, has all the technology items I could want and I just enjoy driving it. I got the SV Sport with the sport technology and monitor pkg. This is the car I have been looking for.

• 

  change has finally come! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By gary - August 9 - 8:13 am

  I own a 1991 maxima which was the forefather of the 4dr sports car. I only have 35000 mile on it to date. I never thought there would ever be another maxima that would compare until now. Its not only better but it just blows everything away in its category. I may have had an old school vehicle but I forgot to mention I also own a 2008 acura mdx and a honda accord accord v6. Honda has its homework cut out for itself. Its value holding segment has finally met its maker and its time for the honda salesman just standing there saying over and over its a honda and it holds its value, poppycock! This maxima just does it all for a lot less then what it competes with. I dont need exotic badging....

• 

  I like it! - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Ron A - August 8 - 1:33 pm

  Purchased the last day of 2009 to take advantage of government tax breaks. I bought the Nissan with the Performance package. So far so good. Im averaging over 25 mpg. Plenty of power. Havent really used the paddle shifters as yet. I looked at the Acura TL, Infiniti 37Gx. I liked the G37 but it was too loud for my wifes tastes. The TL had less front head and leg room and Im 64". My previous Nissan Maxima had automatic folding mirrors. That really the only thing I miss. Im anxious to try out the air cooled drivers seat

• 

  Excellent Buy - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Dean - August 1 - 4:10 pm

  I purchased this car from a deal who priced it incorrectly at $4,900 (in 05 w/138k), what a steal. This is my second Maxima initially owning a 95. I have been completely sold on Nissan quality. The steering/ride is a nice mix of European "feeling the road" with some American "comfort/ease of use." Repairs are more costly than domestics, if you ever have to do them. The longevity of the mechanicals, fit and finish certainly bring the cost of ownership below American brands and certainly German makes. If you are comparing to Camry and/or Accord- you gain a great deal more fun, but lose a bit at the pump- I have maintained 25 mpg hwy- and premium is recommend- but I do med- grade at times.

• 

  Professional Critics: Stop saying the same things - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By Frank - July 30 - 7:39 pm

  You will notice the professionals who review cars say the same things over and over! Here is a different view to them where I agree and disagree. First, I love the Xtronic (CVT) Transmission. After driving the Maxima for a while, and then driving other cars with a regular transmission, I love the CVT!! It is smooth and sounds so much better - so relax "car pros" - you think you are sooooo smart to shake your head at the CVT, but I LIKE IT!! The interior is amazing and the looks suite me just fine. The handling is good, but I will agree with the pros that front wheel drive can be a negative for some (until you drive in the snow) - and all wheel drive would be nice as well (but would add cost). It is a FUN CAR TO DRIVE, so sorry "Pros," I am good with the 4DSC moniker. (so there!)

• 

  Take it to the Max - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By John Bull - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Leased my Maxima GLE on a whim on my Birthday in 1999. I knew as soon as I fired up the silky V6 and drove down one particularly rough section of road, I had to have it. Its cushy yet fun to drive in the twisties, though it wont be confused with a sports car. This cars forte is silent running and comfy cruising. The Bose system is amazing. People have said the styling is non descript, and I tend to agree to a point, but blending in is good, especially since the car loves to run fast; Ive found myself well in excess of the 65 MPH limit and not being aware. Sometimes Ill go for a drive just to listen to the Bose and feel the response and smoothness.

• 

  A ton of fun and bang for the $ - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Lady J - July 27 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I bought a lease turn in for $17k w/21k miles on it. We could be more pleased and laugh at our friends that by new Accords, J30/35, Camarys and whatevers. Its almost too much fun to drive. Hard to keep under 80mph on the Interstate.

• 

  Expensive oil change - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By elstac4 - July 27 - 6:20 am

  First oil change, total shock, $89.00 are they kidding? Should be told when buying car, told it is special oil. I am going to ask other dealers what they charge.

• 

  best car easily destroys the accord - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Mensur Pjetrovic - July 26 - 6:43 pm

  this car is the sickest car ive ever driven it plus i added a cold air intake which really makes the car pull off the line as if it needed more power steering and cornering is excellent driving a 2000 accord ex v6 gold (hayat) and i have to say the maxima outperforms it.