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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  05 Maxima SE - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Ron Hartley - June 22 - 4:33 am

  This has been a great car, its the third Maxima weve owned. Wish it had Nav. It hasnt been back to dealer for anything but scheduled service. The tires on the SE are not great in snow even with traction control. Took it to Mo., and it got 31.7 mpg on premium. Do not appreciate the torque steer or the soft paint, otherwise love the vehicle.

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  2009 Maxima - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Ryan - June 19 - 11:20 pm

  Went to go test drive this car after seeing one on the street. I was instantly hooked. Had to get it. Interior is beautiful, seats are comfortable, features are abundant. Has one of the best sound systems I have heard, and I would consider myself critical in regards to that. Ride quality is great, gotten a lot of compliments at gas station, car wash, co-workers, and friends. I was looking at the G35 and TL but was instantly sold on the Maxima the instant I sat in it.

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  Great Car at a Great Price - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By maxxed out - June 19 - 9:20 am

  Ive always been a SUV guy, but with rising gas prices I started taking a look at a few of the larger sedans on the market. The 09 Maxima trumped all the other contenders... hands down. Fun to drive, decent gas mileage (about 20 mpg in the city so far), very comfortable, and it turns a lot of heads. I opted for the base package that includes a moonroof, power seats, 6 disc changer, 18 inch wheels, and cloth seats (although they are more like microfiber). Test drive this car, you will not be disappointed!

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  Happy So Far - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Bill - June 17 - 12:10 am

  Well I have to say my experience has been very good with my Max. I have only had 2 recalls (both done at the same time) and no other issues. Im up in age so Im not incline to put this car through its paces, but I have had to step on it hard sometimes to avoid other drivers. The car really accelerates. It is way more safe than my last vehicle in this manner. I have confidence to pull out in traffic and know I can pull away from approaching cars.

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  Sell before 160K - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By achy braky car - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I have been very happy with my Maxima. In recent times, however, it has been a disapointment. Once it reached 160000 miles, everything seemed programmed to break. In a two month period of time, I have had to replace the calipers, rotors, struts, strut mounts, coil springs, battery, tires, front and rear axles and catalytic converter. The only thing that remains unfixed is the engine and the transmission. Before this time, I was generally fine with replacing worn out struts every 15K miles, but now at 165K the brakes and struts are going again.

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  Maxima SE 5-spd - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By Chip - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Bought my SE 5 spd for a steal. $13,500 and it looks brand new. BOSE system is great. Big, easy-to-use knobs/buttons. My 1993 SE (209,000 miles w/ original clutch!) had the BOSE but its faceplate was half the size. Auto climate makes you wonder what you ever did w/o it. Leather is in great shape and two power seats is what you usually see only on high-end luxo cars. I wish Nissan had opted for a built-in antenna. The power antennaes always seem to develop a problem. I agree with the previous post...the SE is a BMW 5-series for a lot less money. Ill check back in when my 1999 duplicates my 1993 and crosses the 200k mile mark!

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  great car - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By mike johston - June 14 - 10:00 am

  great car with great luxury I love the engine the most and everything about it

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  Dont like imports - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Darrell - June 12 - 3:50 am

  I purchased my wifes 2005 Maxima in march 2006 from Enterprise Car Sales and I must say that it took a lot of out of me to buy. Because I dont like imports! But let me tell you something, this luxury/muscle car is worth it. Its and head turner, My wife just get compliments everywhere she goes. Great acceleration, and handling. Great interior room (buying point) and comfort. If theres anyone who doesnt like this car, they must be on drugs. I hate imports, but I like this car. Some small improvements needed. Is this car perfect No. But it comes very close. I hate to say it, Go Nissan

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  Fun family car. - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By 14a10 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This car is a fun to drive family car. I really enjoy the handleing and acceleration. I bought this car used, and after a couple months the engine would blow blue smoke on accelerating. A new engine later (warrany replacement) and I am one happy camper. I am 66", I feel a little cramped, but they really dont make a car for my size.

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  My Max... - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Frack - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I never planed on buying a Maxima...Ive always had Grand Cherokees....but once i test drove a Maxima...I was hooked! Overall, my Maxima has been the most reliable car Ive ever owned, and is also the most fun to drive! Superb acceleration, & braking, and decent gas mileage. I just miss that high driving position of an SUV....perhaps I should check out the Nissan Murano next year...