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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  the best - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By RollingInI30 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  the best car available for performance /value /enjoyment. im waiting for 2004....or even better looking at M45 infiniti.

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  So reliable! - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By bemmoftn - October 19 - 1:40 pm

  Nissan built a fun to drive, ridiculously reliable vehicle in 1997. We are the original owners of this 13 yo car, and never had any major issues. It has always performed, never let us down, lots of power under the hood, and there are absolutely no complaints here. It was the most eye popping exterior design year for the Maxima, but it has to be one of their best in durability. I have loved it from day 1, and I still love it on day 4,655. We finally decided to get a new car. So what did we buy? Another Maxima! And it will be ours for the next 15 years.

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  My Reliable Baby!!! - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By Delighted Owner - October 18 - 1:40 pm

  Ive owned my baby for only a little over a month and the only thing I brought it to my mechanic for was to scan the engine for the check engine light problem. Thats it. Turns out to be an anti-knock sensor and an EGR sensor. (Emissions sensor). He told me not to worry about it and since it runs like a TOP, not to even bother spending the $800 for these 2 sensors installed. Drives like Im on a cloud! He said he could just pull the bulb out so the light is always out! Id rather do that for the $35!!! Will not affect the performance or ride if he did this. This car is so quiet, sometimes I forget its on! Ill never part with my baby! I strongly recommend this car to anyone!!

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  A Nice Sedan - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By czip - October 16 - 12:28 am

  The vehicle falls some where between a Carmy, and an Accord; you wont feel like you are floating, and you wont feel like you are in a truck. The transmission doesnt have a quick low gear; so no jack rabbit starts here. The V-6 is solid, and allows for competent passing. I am tall, but the drivers seat is comfortable. I drive 120 miles to/from work each day, and have had no problems. Read about the recalls, and complaints before you look at the vehicle; know what to look for. Turn to aftermarket products, if you question Nissans quality control; ie. brakes and shocks/struts.

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  From BMW to This! - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Squeaky - October 15 - 10:00 am

  I went from a BMW 325i to the Maxima SL and love it! Considered both the SE and SL models, and the SL for me was by far the best luxury ride. If you want a sporty ride and handling, then go with the SE. The Maxima has the BEST pickup (265 HP engine), luxurious leather interior, and stylish exterior. The new Skyview Sunroof is cool! My son influenced me purchasing the Elite package because he loves the rear bucket seats, rear heated seats, and sun shade. Its 1 classy car!

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  CVT - EXCELLENT CAR - 2008 Nissan Maxima
  By Rick - October 14 - 7:40 pm

  I have owned a 2005 Maxima, which was totaled early this year and now a 2008 Maxima. This car is really a considerable car to purchase. The comfort and performance stands out in 2008 Maxima. There are too many car buyers down-playing the CVT engine. People have been use to the engine shifting over 50 years of cars. This Maxima with CVT has no shift shock. So its nice and smooth driving. 0-60 in 6 seconds and I able to pull a track time of 14.8 1/4 mile in 75 degree weather. With my 05 Maxima, I put on 35K miles and had NO problems with the engine. Now with this new 2008 Maxima, I have 5K miles and still no problems. This 08 SL is worth what I spent and I highly recommend it.

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  Babjis Review - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Babji - October 9 - 10:00 am

  The vehicle is really fun to drive. You love it when you overtake other vehicles at traffic lights and after tolls. One can really enjoy driving this vehicle. The contol of the vehicle and the road grip is pretty good. Though, the sound system claimed to be the premium quality, you would not find it extraordinary. The vehicle shakes a little when there are gusty winds.

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  2004 Nissan Maxima - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By discountexpo$$ - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I am a loyal Nissan owner for over 12 yrs. 91 240sx, 85 maxima, 2000 maxima, and now 2004 maxima 3.5 SL. I got this car fully loaded but w/ out navigation since I dont have a problem finding my way around town. This is the best overall maxima yet. Interior is roomy, plenty of trunk space, comfortable, sleek, and very modern comtemporary design overall. Bose systems is great! Acceleration is smooth w/ a quite comfortable ride. My wife loves it! Great family car and reliability is the best in its class.

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  Great Value...Love it!!! - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By The Shadow - October 3 - 9:56 pm

  Extremely well thought out interior with loads of extra features. Handling aspect is limited due to front wheel drive, but otherwise a lot of fun to drive. CVT transmission is very smooth and peppy; has the option to revert to 6-speed manual for added excitement and fun.

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  Superb vehicle and value - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By cme4brain - October 1 - 7:47 pm

  This is my wifes car but I drive it mostly. I have owned 2 Benzes, 2 BMWs, 2 Volvos, and this is the best of all them. This car has the style and horsepower that betters all of those vehicles. The interior quality and transmission are excellent. Its driving feel is just a tick below the Germans, but its reliability is head and shoulders above them- all my German cars cost me $$$$ to keep on the road. And watch for $300 M-B oil changes! Nope, this is a wonderful car.