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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  Best Car Ive Owned - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Best Ever - September 6 - 12:46 pm

  Bought a new 98 Maxima SE 5spd to replace a BMW 525. Ive driven 215k miles and the only non-wear item replaced has been the alternator! Still has the original clutch, second set of spark-plugs, and second set of brake pads. I drive mostly highway and average 26 mpg. It seems to have a perfect blend of economy and performance, and I couldnt be happier!

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  Best Motor - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By sam - September 5 - 10:16 am

  This has been probably the best all-around car we have ever owned from the standpoint of durability/reliability. This is the best engine in any car weve ever owned. Smooth as silk, lots of torque, but with great mileage. We can get near 30 mpg highway if we use cruise and stay at 70mph or under. Hard to believe its a V6. Wind noise and ride quality are a little dated, but overall this is a better car than the current Maxima which is too soft and a big disappointment.

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  More Pros Than Cons - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By j Hudson - September 5 - 8:30 am

  Saw this car while on vacation in Florida and fell in love with it. Its a very competent road car, with powerful acceleration and a roomy cabin. Styling (other than grille) is top notch. Had to replace front shocks under warranty and now there is a vibration in steering wheel. I hope can be remedied with tire balancing, but have read many complaints in the past about wheel/tire issues related to this. Overall, have been very happy with car and its the best one Ive ever owned.

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  Fast and Fast and did I mention its FAST - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By steveme140 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought with 124k at 2800.00(STEAL), totalled at 50k so I bought rebuilt, but the guy drove it 20 miles a day for 5 years with no problems. This thing is super fast. I had a 91 Lumina V6 and this thing blows it away. Starter went at 125k and it needs a new 02 sensor,tires, but other then that it goes 0-60 in 6. And cruises at 120 smooth.

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  One of the best cars in the market. - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By VET - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car (1996 Maxima GLE) from a dealership in Sep 2000. It had 48K miles on it. Currently my car has 199000 miles on it and Iam about to trade (Dealer agreed to pay $3000 without breaking a sweat)this in with a new maxima. All I have done is change oil every 3000 miles and ofcourse change tyres and brake pads etc. Maximas have arguably the best V6 of any sedan in the market. And the car is extemely reliable. It gives 24-25 mpg in a 70/30 mix of highway/city driving, which is not bad at all considering its power.

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  Love it! - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Shmegan - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought a black SE w/ leather and manual tranny last year. Ive driven it hard and it hasnt let me down yet. For the money, there is nothing that couldve touched this in performance, comfort and looks. I recommend switching to synthetic oil, platinum spark plugs and dont even think about using 89 octane gas. (Something to consider before buying with gas prices what they are.)

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  Light bulb!! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By Vancouver - September 3 - 8:13 pm

  Bought this car used, with 15k miles on it. I had a previous Maxima (96) that I drove for 8 years. This is a different car, nice, good visibility and good handling. Quiet and very powerful engine (265 Hp). I wish it had a 6 speed manual but Nissan does not make enough of. I am at 55k miles, and love it. Fuel economy unpaired, if you drive it on the hwy for this size of engine (29-30 m/gl and 20-22 in the city). Always I get the best fuel because this car loves it. At 37k the front light bulb died and service wanted to charge me over $160.00+tx. I could not believe it, but thanks to e-bay I was able to replace it for $36.00 plus my time. Consider maintenance cost when you buying this car.

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  First non premium name plate - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Joseph Sudano - September 3 - 6:27 pm

  I like having cars that are relatively unique. When I first saw the Maxima I was taken to the new exterior immediately. I went to a dealership and test drove the car. The interior is impressive. The quality of materials used is in line with other Luxury car manufacturers, the zero gravity seats are not as comfortable as I am used to but offer adequate adjustments. The easy entry feature for me is a must. I was surprised to find the Maxima had it. The layout of the dash, including the main display, push button start and the Nissan informant System is in line with my Porsche. The 7 inch display between the instrument cluster limits my need to take my eyes off the road to see my GPS and other important information, again like my Porsche. The quietness of the interior is amazing. The acceleration,and handling of the car exceeded my expectations. The Maxima is not a sports car as Nissan is promoting, but it is a true Luxury car. Put a Premium name plate on the Maxima and you would easily pay $15,000.00 + more. This is the best investment in a Luxury car I have ever made, and one of the best values on the market

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  good - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By racyhell - September 2 - 10:00 am

  so far so good.

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  Gibsons review - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Chuck Gibson - September 1 - 7:33 am

  I bought the car new in 2002 and have been very pleased overall. A few quirks witht the radio in the beginning, but all is resolved under warranty. Fuel economy is nothing to brag about (25.9mpg on the fuel economy meter, but dont believe it). Engine is powerful and extremely smooth. No problem getting around the slowpokes or merging onto highways. My only complaint is the limited turning radius on this car. Many times I have had to unnecessary 3 point turns that most cars, or even my wifes minivan would cruise through easily. I have received many compliments on this car and dont feel as though I have wasted a dime on it. The resale value proves the resale legacy continues.