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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  new design rocks - 2007 Nissan Maxima
  By lisa - March 28 - 11:43 am

  the new front grill, new design on the gages are nice. The pick up is awesome and a comfort ride. My car was in the shop and was given an 07 to drive. After 3 days I bought my own and love it!

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  Well worth it - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Jake Young - March 27 - 6:36 am

  With 255 horsepower (33 more than the 01 model) this "family sedan" is a blast! The SE handles like a fine sports car thanks to the suspension and 17" wheels. Ive driven with verve for three years and the engine, suspension, tires, everything is still in great shape. The only problem I ever had was with the 7-spkr Bose 6-CD player that needed a spkr wire fixed the first year --- the dealer replaced the whole system in less than one day with no cost to me because of the warranty. The car flat-out outperforms all its competition and is more comfortable to boot! (I tried Honda, Toyota, Chrysler, Acura, VW, and Mazda.) Did I mention its a great car? . . .

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  Not recomend - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Victoria - March 26 - 10:00 am

  I have one remark - at driving this car I feel pressure in ears and it is painful even some time after leaving the car. Whether I have taken an interest at the seller so it. And unfortunately a dealer has confirmed this problem

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  Great ride - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By Julio - March 26 - 2:00 am

  My 2002 Nissan Maxima has been the best car that Ive ever owned. It has been very reliable and had no problems whatsoever so far. The interior is very confortable, roomy and everything is within reach. In my opinion, this is a very solid car all around. It has the best V6 HP (265) engine compared to others in the same category and year. The gated shifter really complements the transmission.

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  luxurious vehicle - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Ronald mcCray - March 23 - 4:20 pm

  Wonderful car to drive fun full of power. If there was one thin I could change would be the removal of the cassette player, then add a 6 disc cd player instead.other then that we love the car.

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  Still crazy after all these years! - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Valenti - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Ordered from factory for(rare) 5 speed. (Replaced my 1988 Legend 5 speed.) Reliability has been rock solid. Finally put front brakes at 120k, still has original clutch! Only mechanical problem has been check engine light issue--common to this model. Still drives like its brand new. Guess thats why Im still crazy about it...

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  95 Nissan Maxima - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By abready@erols.com - March 22 - 1:20 pm

  Great car with an interesting story. Previous owner would leave car at subway, and ride subway to work (reason for low miles at 62,000). That is, until 9/11 - he never came back to get it. Anyway, I am now the owner of a beautiful GXE that is in great shape, looks sharp, and is fun to drive! The angel riding with me is a big plus...

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  Get one, quick! - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By Miller5 - March 22 - 4:43 am

  Heres a decent car. All youve read about this car is true. You get styling, performance, great gas mileage, reliability, and good resale all in one 4-door package. Ive owned a V-6 Camry and I think this car is slightly better. Plenty of head room for me (63") even with a sunroof. Go for the SE, as you get firmer suspension, better looks and a 5-speed option. If you can find a 99 SE-L, youll get spiffy options like a 5th lap belt, 120 extra watts of Bose (like it needed it...), and neato titanium-colored badges as well as cheesy "SE-L" emblems tacked onto various parts of the car. Keep it in good shape, sell it in a few years, and you should get most of your money out of it.

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  GET THIS CAR FAST!! - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Good car! - March 16 - 2:00 am

  I just got this car from Hertz Car sales, and dont be afraid to buy from a rental company. I love my maxima, best car i have ever driven. Being a teen, i love flooring it, it has so much power. The other cars i drive, which are my parents is a 2001 Chrysler T&C and a 1994 Dodge Grand Caravan. This is soo much easier to park and a lot more fun to drive. I am 61" size 14 feet and i have more than enough room in it. I also love the exterior design. The Nissan dealership was very mean, hiking the prices very high, so go to a rental car place. Also has better gas milage than the vans i drive. Get this car now!

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  maxima sl 2004 - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By tom farmer - March 16 - 2:00 am

  over all i am very satisefied with the car. i wish i had gotten the 5 speed auto trans, just to give myself the option of shifting manualy.