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:
Showing 591 through 600 of 3,122.00-
Not the car Nissan claims it to be - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By jessefrank - March 13 - 7:43 pmIf you are looking of a performance sedan Id look elsewhere. Not bad, but the interior build quality steered me away after owning for 2.5 years. Also all that power isnt of any use if it cant get to the road. Despite my tire choices I still lost traction not only in the winter, but durning the summer with wet roads. Roads only have to be slightly wet to lose traction especaially on take-off. Car developed a harsh ride despite not handling all that well.
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OK but leaves one wanting more - 2007 Nissan Maxima
By Ken - March 12 - 11:40 pmThis is a pretty good car overall. Not sure I would pay again for the same model. The 07 re-design is not bad but the 09 is far better.
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Easy to break into - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Vasf - March 10 - 8:26 pmI have owned my Max for 2 years. On June 27 2006 my car was broken into. Doors were locked,windows were up,and alarm was working. When I came outside to my car the 2 front windows were down and the door lock was messed up. Apparently, someone used an object, such as a screw driver, jammed it in the drivers side door turned it to make the windows come down and doors to unlock which is why the alarm never went off. This happen right in front of my house around 5:00 am no noise was made. Fortunately, the only thing they stole was a cell phone adapter. I am nervous about how easy it is to get into this car and searching for a car that does not have this feature. The repair bill was $794
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Could be better ...... - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By Warrior - March 9 - 5:20 amErratic transmission shifts with the 5- speed auto. Noise in cabin after 35 MPH or on highways. Excellent suspension settings. Great exterior view.
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My MAX ,is a beautiful vehicle - 2000 Nissan Maxima
By kc21 - March 8 - 5:06 pmI think over all the vehicle is extrodinary,except for the rough ride over bumps,as I explained below.other then that the vehicle is GREAT!.
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Sporty with Comfort - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By Bob B. - March 8 - 4:40 pmWhat a fun car to drive. We went thru a lengthy process to pick out a sedan that met mileage, comfort and appearance conditions we deemed important. The Maxima won out no hands down. Mileage is good for a luxury car, about 25 so far with mixed driving, and comfort is superb. We bought the SV model fully loaded and cant be happier. We strongly recommend this vehicle.
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WHAT A CAR - 2004 Nissan Maxima
By Mikenoc - March 6 - 10:00 amwhen I heard the new release of the maxima I was in aw. I have been a long time nissan lover since my 92 nissan maxima which i traded in for a 2002 altima but when i heard of the maximas new release I was ready to trade in my altima. I waited of course until this year and did just that. My black SL with the 5 speed automatic not the 4 as in the early year productions really blows my mind. This car has power and style. I was in the market for a new car and it was teetering between the maxima and its sister car the Infiniti I35 but I am very glad I went with the Maxima. It is truley a work of art inside and out!
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its a MAXIMA!. - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By riverone - March 4 - 2:56 pmThis car is amazing,its my 2nd Max,his appearance and performance is incredible,25mpg is superb,my wife is always impressed with the strong and at the same time smooth ride.We love this car.
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A Life-long Maxima Lover..... - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By David - February 27 - 3:50 amI am currently driving my 6th Maxima and they just keep getting better! I’ve never had a single thing go wrong with any of the 6 cars. I’ve had my dark blue SE for over a year now and I still notice people turning and staring when I drive by. The car is powerful and solid and is still as much fun to drive as the day I drove it off the lot. I realize that there are other quality cars out there, but I’m sorry.... the Camry and Accord and just plain BORING. If anyone is the market for a “sporty” mid-sized, four-door car, make sure you test-drive the new Maxima! You’ll fall in love!
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5 time Nissan Owner! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By LoveMyMaxi - February 26 - 6:06 pmIn my opinion you can not go wrong when you purchase from Nissan. The company is top notch and the customer service is superb. I drive a 2004 Maxima SL and I absolutely adore it. This is my 4th Maxima and I also drove a Pathfinder. The Pathfinder (2001) drove just about as smooth as the luxurious Maxima. I missed having a car, so I bought the Maxima the last time. You cant beat the value because the cars come standard with so many great features. The buying experience was good and I feel like I received a fair deal each time. As far as reliability...the cars have been virtually flawless. Go get one!!!!
