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 Vehicle Ive ever had - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By GKLCPA - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Up to this point, Ive never had any brand loyalty to any particular carm but that has changed with my purchase of a 1998 Maxima GLE. I have a 130 mile round trip daily commute and I wanted something reliable with power. The Maxima fits both bills more than adequately. For a car with so much power, its surprisingly miserly when it comes to fuel usage. I routinely get 26+ miles to the gallon. I am quite pleased with this purchase and will likely be a committed Maxima owner for years to come (although the new Infiniti G35 looks interesting as well!).

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  My second Max - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Martini421 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  We just got our second Maxima. WOW!! What improvements they have made since 2000. The 255hp realy moves. The Titanium Package adds many of the extras we wanted, we also opted for the Meridian and Traction Control. The only thing we diddnt get was the Nav System. I have to say that this car is the best value for your dollar in the performance luxury market. This car is awesome to drive.

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  The Truth - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Sirrobe - June 7 - 10:50 pm

  I am Nissan Maxima man, but the 2005 Maxima has let me down. The design is great, but the front wheel shakes like crazy once you reach about 50-60 mph. I dont believe that Nissan has done a good job with this one.

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  Excellent Vehicle, Excellent Value - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Hard To Please - June 7 - 1:50 am

  Having owned numerous performance (sports oriented) vehicles and luxury vehicles, I remain impressed with our new Maxima SE. We have the Driver Preferred Package. The Maxima feels and looks luxurious while driving as a high performance sedan should. Very crisp handling in everyday driving. It compares favorably to the 5 series BMW we had. Its front wheel drive is an advantage in inclement weather. We also had a 2003 Towncar. By comparison, the Maxima has even more luxury and none of the wallowy ride and vague handling. Very good value for the money we spent compared to the Avalon, TL, CTS, etc. we considered.

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  simply the best - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By goldy - June 4 - 12:20 pm

  This is the best riding car I have ever owned. It is actually a joy to get in and take for a long drive on the highway. There is almost no wind noise which many of the competition can not say (atleast every one I test drove). I have owned 4 Maximas over the years and this it the best one by far. I test drove several other cars but for the money, performance, and comfort the Maxima won hands down. I would have bought the 350Z but need a backseat for the kids.

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  4DSC - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By mhorn325is - June 2 - 1:33 am

  I bought my 97 SE with a 5 speed manual trans in 2006 with approximately 90K miles. The car appealed to me for a variety of reasons: silky 3.0 liter V6, plush creature comforts, impressive factory Bose unit and the relative ease of finding a reasonably priced variant with a proper 3rd pedal. I certainly indulged in a bit of wrench time - Koni struts, Eibach springs, Centerforce clutch, front/rear Brembo cross drilled rotors and a few Stillen add-ons - that greatly increased the pleasure of being behind the wheel, but the car was a solid, quick-ish workhorse even with the OEM equipment. Be mindful of rust and leaks (oil, coolant, etc.), but Ill miss the old girl when I trade her in this week

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  Yes indeed I like Maximas - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Martin - June 1 - 8:13 pm

  This the third Maxima Ive owned. That should tell you something right off the bat. These are really great cars, reiable cars, that also give you pride in owning one. Its as well made as a Honda Accord but gives you three time more fun in driving. Im not a dealer or a Nissan rep, just a guy who loves and believes in these cars enough to take the time write such a message for your benefit. I cannot imagine why people consider any other four door (sports) sedans when they can get one of these. Enough is enough. My new (used) Maxima SE is just as good, if not better than the other ones Ive owned. Or you can get some slower, lamer, more expensive Lexus for more money.

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  2002 Maxima SE vibration problem. - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By bvf10376 - June 1 - 4:00 am

  Im noticing a vibration in the steering and seat but only at highway speeds ( not noticed in the demo ride because it was just around town ). Service people recognized problem. All 4 rims and tires replaced. Slight improvement but still not right. Nissan says this is normal???? Im wondering if theres a flaw in the SE because Ive heard rumors that other new SEs owners have complained and that all SEs on the dealers lot were shown to have the problem.

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  Cant afford a BMW M3? - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Paclark01 - May 31 - 8:00 am

  I am new to the Nissan experience. In all respect to the autombile, it is definitely a four door sports car. Fun to drive and crisp in handling. The six speed manual is notchy prior to its 1,000 to 2,000 mile break in period, but after a smooth and gentle break in the car shifts smooth and precise. I will definitely recommend this vehicle to an individual who is considering an Acura TL-S. Nissan has given the Tl-S a run for its money. Besides, who can beat a savings of up to $7,000?

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  Great Maxima GXE - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Charles - May 31 - 12:16 am

  I purchased this used Maxima that was three years old with 12,000 miles. It is a wonderful road car - I have taken a 3,700 mile vacation and averaged about 27 MPG. No problems ever except the alternator recall which was taken care of with no issues at all. I can only hope the 2004/2005 Maximas are as good as my 98! Best car I have ever owned along with my 99 Toyota Camry.