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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  Solid Performer - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By Hammer123 - May 10 - 10:00 am

  Bought a white- pearl coat automatic 99SE but w/ an interesting twist. It has cloth heated seats! Actually better than leather because it heats up faster. Breaks and muffler system are OUTRAGEOUSLY priced to fix. Overall it is fun to drive, the payment does not kill you and it is just a very solid performer. A Stick might be more fun!

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  Happily Surprised - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Loanbeast - May 10 - 10:00 am

  I previously owned a BMW 3 series vehicle and I have been very impressed with the drive and ride of my Maxima SE. Very responsive, accelerates like no other, performancewise I have not looked back wishing I had kept the BMW. Dealership experience was best I have ever had, however I am still waiting for my valet key after 5 months. Very glad I bought this vehicle.

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  AC and Transmission Problems - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By Bratch - May 8 - 10:00 am

  Was good for the first two years, then the AC started blowing hot air, had high pressure line replaced under warranty. A year later the same thing happened, this time the low pressure AC line, and out of warranty. The hose and metal crimps seemed to have failed, replacement hose was more supple than original hose. After 4.5 years and 79,000 miles the transmission has started slipping between 2nd and 3rd gear, with no check engine light on. Taking it to the dealer for diagnosis in a couple of days. Purchased mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) from credit union, which is good for 4 more months, so I hope it will be covered.

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  My HOTTT Maxima - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Rio Brown - May 7 - 10:10 am

  Ive been driving my 2010 Maxima for 3 weeks now and i absolutely digggg it. I was a previous owner of a 2009 Acura TSX, but its night and day, compared to the Maxima. The Maxima styling is incredible from fit to finish and the power, oh that power, is incredibly impressive.

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  o4 elite - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By 04max elite - May 4 - 9:56 am

  i have the radiant amber/brunt orange elite pak all eyes on me a better ride than bmw,lex,benz the can move when needed i had a 1990 max it could run also so i wanted to see what this one was all about its tiiiiiigggghhht

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  Bang for our buck - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By rtyard2000 - May 4 - 5:50 am

  I always knew this car was a performer. I have only owned domestic vehicles my whole life because I knew how to work on them with ease. I decided to make a change and try out a foreign vehicle. The Maxima was my first choice. I have not regretted buying this car and have enjoyed everyday commuting in it. It is comfortable with leather seats, fun to drive with a 222 hp engine and sport suspension, and classy enough to drive into any yuppified area of town. This car is a vehicle of all traits and will prove it upon any dare presented. If you need a car that does it all with a budget in mind, this one is for you.

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  I have mixed feelings about this car. - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By gelo7 - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I had put 17,000 miles on this car,it has 67,000 miles on it so far. Problems: 1)Nissan Ignition Immobilizer system failed(car would not start)($ 140) 2)Fake interior wood trim started to deteriorate due to ultraviolet radiation from the Sun($ 235 online). 3)Rough idle,I will probably have to replace ALL the six fuel injectors which cost about $800. My parents own a 99 Suzuki Esteem and a 99 Honda Accord EX V6 for more than two years and NEVER had a single problem with them,thats what I call reliability.(The Honda Accord needs no major maintenance until 100,000 miles).

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  Completely Satisfied - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By maxowner - May 3 - 10:00 am

  I do a fair amount of driving in relation to my work, so I wanted a car more powerful and roomier (I am 63") than my Mazda 626. Completely satisfied with that choice. Lots of leg and head room, even with a sunroof, which is a power sunroof. Plenty of get- up-and-go, accelerating quickly and smoothly, and handles very well, even on curving mountain roads. Interior is leather with faux wood trim. A bonus is a built in dash 6 CD changer, with a great Bose sound system. I am convinced that a comparable Toyota Avalon or Acura or Honda,etc. would have cost 3- 4000 dollars more. Mileage so far appears to be 22-24 in town, and 26-28 on the highway (using regular unleaded gas).

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  Best car I ever owned - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By Ray - May 1 - 3:20 am

  I bought the car on a whim because I had seen the car in a parking lot and loved the look. I love to drive it and we only use it on weekends and trips.The only draw back I have is with the heat and cooling in the rear seat compartment. You cant regulate it. It needs an extra blower to maximise the air flow. I read an article where the top speed is 149 miles an hour and Ill never drive that fast but I believe it.

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  2nd maxima - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By y2za - April 30 - 3:16 am

  I previously owned a 2002 Max SE - had for 20K miles. Never had any problems. In comparison - this car seems to handle better - must be the independant 4 wheel suspension. This car seems to have less torque steer. This car seems to have more upper range passing power. This car has a much better base sound system (240 watt 8 speaker systems). The true fun nature of this car comes out when pushed hard. When i drive conservately, i tend to think this is a heavy/slow car but boy when i push the pedal down and turn sharply the true nature of the car comes out.