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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  Excellent Vehicle, Excellent Value - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Hard To Please - June 7 - 1:50 am

  Having owned numerous performance (sports oriented) vehicles and luxury vehicles, I remain impressed with our new Maxima SE. We have the Driver Preferred Package. The Maxima feels and looks luxurious while driving as a high performance sedan should. Very crisp handling in everyday driving. It compares favorably to the 5 series BMW we had. Its front wheel drive is an advantage in inclement weather. We also had a 2003 Towncar. By comparison, the Maxima has even more luxury and none of the wallowy ride and vague handling. Very good value for the money we spent compared to the Avalon, TL, CTS, etc. we considered.

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  simply the best - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By goldy - June 4 - 12:20 pm

  This is the best riding car I have ever owned. It is actually a joy to get in and take for a long drive on the highway. There is almost no wind noise which many of the competition can not say (atleast every one I test drove). I have owned 4 Maximas over the years and this it the best one by far. I test drove several other cars but for the money, performance, and comfort the Maxima won hands down. I would have bought the 350Z but need a backseat for the kids.

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  Cant afford a BMW M3? - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Paclark01 - May 31 - 8:00 am

  I am new to the Nissan experience. In all respect to the autombile, it is definitely a four door sports car. Fun to drive and crisp in handling. The six speed manual is notchy prior to its 1,000 to 2,000 mile break in period, but after a smooth and gentle break in the car shifts smooth and precise. I will definitely recommend this vehicle to an individual who is considering an Acura TL-S. Nissan has given the Tl-S a run for its money. Besides, who can beat a savings of up to $7,000?

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  Great Maxima GXE - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Charles - May 31 - 12:16 am

  I purchased this used Maxima that was three years old with 12,000 miles. It is a wonderful road car - I have taken a 3,700 mile vacation and averaged about 27 MPG. No problems ever except the alternator recall which was taken care of with no issues at all. I can only hope the 2004/2005 Maximas are as good as my 98! Best car I have ever owned along with my 99 Toyota Camry.

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  Great car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By died4me - May 29 - 9:03 am

  This is my 3rd Maxima and I love it! Have only had it 2 days but expect to feel the same for a while. You cant beat the value! This car is loaded!!! Went to the dealer to look at the Altima but was not impressed with the ride and felt was a bit expensive when I considered that I could get a loaded GLE for a few bucks more.

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  Fun car, few complaints. - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By John - May 24 - 12:13 pm

  The Maxima is overall a great car. It has quick acceleration for a car of its size, and provides a nice ride. It has so many great features like memory and heated seats, satellite radio, and everything else needed to make a car feel like home. The exterior looks amazing, especially with my optional "amazing" package, with great looking bright chrome rims and grille. I have gotten so many compliments on an awesome looking car. The paint does chip easily though, and I have spent a lot on detail work. Inside, everything feels fairly nice, although some parts are a bit cheesy. The controls are overly-complicated, but manageable. The Bose stereo sounds good.

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  Very Nice Car - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Ty - May 24 - 1:30 am

  Purchased 2010 fully loaded. Love the interior. Has all the high end tech features of a G37, or Lexus 330 but at a significant cost reduction. I am tall, just over 64" and feel very safe and comfortable. You wont be disappointed with this car.

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  Wonderful but Noisy - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Maxed out - May 23 - 8:50 am

  This is the 4th Maxima Ive owned and they just keep getting better except for one thing... the interior is noisy. If Honda could build (my second car is a 2005 Honda) a super quiet ride, why cant Nissan?

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  A great car for the money - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Dan - May 17 - 10:56 pm

  I love this car! I also looked at Avalon, CTS, Lincoln MKZ. CVT is great, performance outstanding. This car loves to be driven. Gas mileage has improved after 8000 miles to 22 city, 27 highway. Mileage was really bad at first (maybe I was driving too hard). The CVT seems to have improved with miles also. I got this on a 2 year lease; I still cant think of anything I would replace it with under $40,000, so Ill probably get another one in 2009.

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  PURE ADDICTION - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By cranesrule - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the 2002 SE to replace my wifes Olds Intrigue... Now I want to steal it from her. This car has a combination of brute power and silky smooth refinement that is truly addictive. The acceleration is spectacular and it has the handling to make it feel locked down at all times. Complaints about torque steer? Buy a less powerful car or learn to drive - this car is worth the effort. Interior design is gorgeous yet simple and understated. Even the cloth interior is simply stunning. This car is such a perfect compromise between sports car and sedan that it feels like you you havent given up ANYTHING. Nissan hit the sweet spot.