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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  my first purchased car ! - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By STEVE GONZALEZ - August 19 - 7:28 pm

  I bought this 99 Nissan maxima when I was 21 the car looks great ran great as others I have had coil problems but after fixing them It was good. used only synthetic oil ! only used 76 gas . 87 unleaded of course. I have changed the oil seals myself. the car still runs great. reseale value totally blows I rather keep it. the purchase value was outrageous. I dont know what I was thinking.. if you drive it fast you burn the gas as fast. being it is a v6 ! I love my maxima I also have a 2007 Honda accord. cant compare them.. the maxima has great speed and the better engine. I think. the accord handles a lot better great on gas. but I will always love my maxima ! being that I am from California and the roads out here are bumpy I love my v6 to out run the smaller 4 sissy cylinder cars out here.

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  Bulletproof - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Doc - August 19 - 4:10 pm

  Ive owned quite a few cars in my days, but this is the best! The Maxima is not only bulletproof, but it is easy to mod if you are into that. Dollar for dollar it has to be the best car on the road. My 4th gen is still a timeless style. I love the giddyup this car has when I dust those Honda ricers who want to play. Not your Grandmas grocery getter!

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  Dont buy any Maxima between 04-06. - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By VKMaxima - August 19 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our car in Nov.of 2008. The car ran beautifully for about a year. Then around mid 2009 the car began jerking. The jerks became more and more violent as time progressed. We then had it checked by Nissan, but it was too late for the power-train warranty. Thankfully we purchased the CarMax Extd. warranty. Had the job done by AAMCO,and about two months later the problem arose again. They then replaced the valve-body,and its now running "better", but not like before. I truly love my Maxima,but I feel Nissan has neglected many of their customers. I just wished that Nissan took some responsibility for their actions. Overall it is a GREAT car. The 07-08 is a much better choice.

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  great car - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By ahr2 - August 19 - 10:00 am

  This is my second max I still own my 1995.This 2010 is the feel of a sports car with a little more room. The features on this model are great. The heated seats and steering wheel are my favorite.

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  Fun Car - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By Foley - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I have only had my car for one day but already a few things I like/dislike. I really love the comfort and power of the car. I have the Prem Package w/ Prem Tech package. The nav is good, not great. Thus far the most disappointing thing is the Voice Activation System. It takes too long to do anything with it. Like, when you press the button, it ask questions and you have to wait until the thing is done talking before you can talk. Then you move to the next level and it ask another series of questions that you have to wait through. Then finally you get to do what you want. They need to add short cuts. I might not be doing it right though. I cant complain though, great car.

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  My second Maxima - 2011 Nissan Maxima
  By MaxUp - August 19 - 10:00 am

  Compared to my 2000 Maxima, they fixed the turning radius. The view over the hood is spectacular and the side mirror view is sweet. The acceleration with the CVT is awesome. The transmission is always running in the sweet spot. No engine torque in the steering wheel. The seats fit my 6 foot 3 inch frame and theyre heated/cooled for the driver. The iPod interface is perfect, streaming audio or plug into USB to view my music on the NAV display, which also plays DVDs in park mode. On hilly roads, the paddle shifters come in handy for engine braking. I have the Premium addition which is a good balance of sporty feel with comfort every day driving. Nissan hit a home run with this model.

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  Not so hot - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Ralph Cole - August 17 - 6:00 am

  This was my 3rd Max and by far the worst. We have had the car in for replacement of the factory installed sky view (service recall issued), the rear window replaced (rattle), dash panel glass (keeps fogging),and resewed the leather seat to name a few problems. The 265 horses are hard to handle because the car is front wheel drive. Hey other than that, the car is great! HA HA

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  05 MAX - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Justin from Jersey - August 15 - 11:00 am

  Black exterior with Burnt Orange Interior gets tons of attention. People always comment on how nice of a car the Maxima is. Performance is good. This car gives you a high feature content, and is a step above the everyday family car.

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  Most bang for the buck - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By maxpa - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned the car for 2 years and put on 40,000 kms in that time. The best car ive owned. The HP and torque make for snappy performance and the interior is luxurious and comfortable. The driver side airbag module was replaced under warranty (~$500 CAD), and the alternator was replaced under a recall. Other than that I havent been to the dealership for anything.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Had - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By Lynne - August 14 - 11:03 pm

  I have loved having this car from day one. It is a blast to drive with lots of power and tracks well. It is great for mountain driving. The amenites are the best and I have had no mechanical problems of any kind...just standard maintenance. Even the Toyoz tires stood up so well that I replaced them with the same kind. Additionally, the silver paint still looks like new. There are no signs of oxidation which is rare for silver vehicles. The leather interior is still like new - no signs of wear. My next car will be another Maxima for sure.