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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maxima sl 2004 - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By tom farmer - March 16 - 2:00 amover all i am very satisefied with the car. i wish i had gotten the 5 speed auto trans, just to give myself the option of shifting manualy.
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Sporty with Comfort - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By Bob B. - March 8 - 4:40 pmWhat a fun car to drive. We went thru a lengthy process to pick out a sedan that met mileage, comfort and appearance conditions we deemed important. The Maxima won out no hands down. Mileage is good for a luxury car, about 25 so far with mixed driving, and comfort is superb. We bought the SV model fully loaded and cant be happier. We strongly recommend this vehicle.
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WHAT A CAR - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Mikenoc - March 6 - 10:00 amwhen I heard the new release of the maxima I was in aw. I have been a long time nissan lover since my 92 nissan maxima which i traded in for a 2002 altima but when i heard of the maximas new release I was ready to trade in my altima. I waited of course until this year and did just that. My black SL with the 5 speed automatic not the 4 as in the early year productions really blows my mind. This car has power and style. I was in the market for a new car and it was teetering between the maxima and its sister car the Infiniti I35 but I am very glad I went with the Maxima. It is truley a work of art inside and out!
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its a MAXIMA!. - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By riverone - March 4 - 2:56 pmThis car is amazing,its my 2nd Max,his appearance and performance is incredible,25mpg is superb,my wife is always impressed with the strong and at the same time smooth ride.We love this car.
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A Life-long Maxima Lover..... - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By David - February 27 - 3:50 amI am currently driving my 6th Maxima and they just keep getting better! Ive never had a single thing go wrong with any of the 6 cars. Ive had my dark blue SE for over a year now and I still notice people turning and staring when I drive by. The car is powerful and solid and is still as much fun to drive as the day I drove it off the lot. I realize that there are other quality cars out there, but Im sorry.... the Camry and Accord and just plain BORING. If anyone is the market for a sporty mid-sized, four-door car, make sure you test-drive the new Maxima! Youll fall in love!
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5 time Nissan Owner! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By LoveMyMaxi - February 26 - 6:06 pmIn my opinion you can not go wrong when you purchase from Nissan. The company is top notch and the customer service is superb. I drive a 2004 Maxima SL and I absolutely adore it. This is my 4th Maxima and I also drove a Pathfinder. The Pathfinder (2001) drove just about as smooth as the luxurious Maxima. I missed having a car, so I bought the Maxima the last time. You cant beat the value because the cars come standard with so many great features. The buying experience was good and I feel like I received a fair deal each time. As far as reliability...the cars have been virtually flawless. Go get one!!!!
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The paint stinks, but a great car... - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By Mr. Blair Selig - February 25 - 2:00 amThe thing is beautiful. Great design and engine is a joy to drive. I have a problem with the paint, and so do a lot of other owners I am sure- the paint on the 2000-2003 Maximas tends to chip very easily. Only 2700 miles in, the paint has chips and scratches in it. Other than this, I love the durn thing.
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2010 Nissan Maxima SV Premium Package - 2010 Nissan Maxima
By Michael - February 18 - 10:43 amJust purchased this vehicle and I am extremely pleased with it. This car is very sophisticated in terms of technology and comfort. Performance is very noteworthy as well. There is plenty of power and the mid-range torque is excellent. The overall ride is smooth and seamless as well as quiet. The vehicle is able to accelerate effortlessly and still remains quiet even at higher speeds. This car handles very well too, as if it has a wide grip and hugs the road when driving. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a sedan that offers luxury and performance in one package at a reasonable price. The exterior styling is one of a kind!
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Fun to Drive - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By chrispv - February 18 - 4:46 amIve owned my Maxima since 2004 and it has been a great car. The car is loaded and also has a 6 speed, which is fun to drive and is fast for a family sedan. There is a lot of room in the car and trunk for my family. The car has had minimal repair work (tires, brakes, exhaust system). Ive got 89k miles and the car still looks great and runs well. Ive noticed a slight drop in the acceleration but that is to be expected with time. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking.
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Fully Loaded Mostly Worth It. - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By Michael - February 14 - 10:06 amLet me first start by saying that this is one of the most fun cars I have had the pleasure of driving. It sucks down the recommended 93 octane like it is a sports car with a big engine. Oh wait, it is a sports car (4-doors) with a good sized engine. The ride is a little stiff but it is supposed to be like that. There are more bells and whistles that I can shake a stick at. If you want luxury, you will get most of the high end items that you would get from the others. If you like to drive, this is a great car!
