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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  04 Maxima - WOW! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By DrJ - December 27 - 2:00 am

  The Maxima is an exceptional car and a has a real WOW! factor. The SL ride is significantly better than that of the SE, and compares to many luxury cars. For its actual dimensions, it has good interior and trunk space. The driver preferred option package for only $700 adds loads of handy features, like power tilt/ telescoping heated steering wheel, and heated memory seats. Overall, the 04 Maxima is a real winner.

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  BEST CAR EVER!! - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Kim Ovelgonne - December 21 - 7:53 pm

  The Maxima SL is luxurious, sporty and fun to drive. This car has power with a smooth ride. The Maxima is roomy and sleek on the inside. The leather is soft yet sturdy. The carpet and mats are plush. When I saw the Maxima I loved the body style. I took it for a test drive and I knew that this was the car for me.

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  WOW!!! - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Nissan guy forever - December 16 - 10:43 pm

  This is my first Maxima, I love it! Its fast, fun, and sexy, its got hips. The Premium pack and I love the double sunroof, just wish the rear one opened. There is an endless power feeling with the CVT trans. With front wheel drive it doesnt feels so much like a sports car, but it handles at a top notch level. On and off ramps can be a lot of fun. If you want the balls to the wall sports car, drop the kids off at grandmas, and buy the 370Z. MPH is not the greatest, but its a big V6. All in all, Ill buy another one when it comes time.

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  THE MAX! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Mr Max - December 14 - 10:56 pm

  This car although easily overlooked in todays automobile market is truly one of a kind! I was so impressed with its many features and comfort that while I was waiting for an Infiniti to be transfered from another dealer I decided to take it for a drive. I instantly fell in love with it and decided to purchase it. It now has 57K miles and still running and looking brand new! All the electronic equipment is in great working condition! If you are in the market for a new car dont buy one until you have test drove a maxima! In todays world if you want to drive a luxury car and dont want the price tag of a premium sedan which will just get banged up in the parking lot then the maxima is for yo

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  Love it! - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Tracy - December 10 - 3:36 am

  Where do I begin? I love everything about this car. Large trunk, roomy interior - husband 62" and rides comfortably, low maintenance, good gas mileage, smooth quiet ride, strong engine, beautiful car.

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  Best Performance Family Sedan - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By mirth - December 8 - 2:00 am

  I was looking for a family sedan that would be large enough cargo/seating- wise to meet my needs but wouldnt put me to sleep driving it. I looked at all the mid-size competition under $25K. Maxima was on the high end for interior amenities, and its powerful engine blew away every other contender.

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  2007 Nissan Maxima - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By big daddy - December 4 - 12:23 pm

  This car handles like a dream, I dont know why the other peoples mpg is so bad. My fuel economy is kickin. I get near 30 on the hwy and more like 24 in town. But I get the better octane. I feel better that way. Anyway, If theres anyone hesitant, they should stop worrying and just get the car. I love the interior, especially the fit and finish of the materials and the two seat memory is nice too.

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  great perfomer with one annoying problem - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By D. A. Parry - November 29 - 4:06 am

  The Maxima is well designed, fun to drive and overall it performs well. It has some giddyap, looks great and gets good mileage. The biggest problem is the turning radius. Its a complete joke. I cant believe that Nissan engineers could not have corrected this problem. Youll find tractor trailers that have a better turning radius. Also, beware if you get the vehicle in black - the low to the ground Maxima attracts road gravel, stones, etc., that mar up the front grill finish - very noticeable. The dealer quoted me $800 to repaint. Get the bra. Also, the location of the charger outlet is in an awkward position and the cheap plastic cover breaks easily.

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  Youre crazy if you dont buy a maxima - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By felix183333 - November 26 - 4:20 pm

  Im a long time Nissan buyer and this 2006 maxima is one of my best buys from Nissan. I love the power and the handling. Most vehicles with this power and options are very costly. Nissan, as always has found away to put the best of all cars in a Maxima. If you dont understand, test drive a Maxima and other cars in its class and Your heart will tell you to buy Nissan.

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  AWESOME 97 MAXIMA GLE - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By tan5 - November 26 - 11:33 am

  ...bought my 97 Maxima GLE in Sep of 97, 14.3 years ago, and it has been the best car ever! There have been no major expenses/repairs outside of basic maintenance and minor wear & tear part replacement. The engine light didnt even go on until my 13th year of owning it and, even then, the repair cost was minimal. ...am about to hit 232,000 miles and had the goal to see if it could make 400,000 (had heard of an owner that did hit 400K). However, the 0% financing Nissan is currently offering drew me in so I am now selling my Maxima. Tears will be shed when "she" is driven away.