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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  great family sized 350z - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By lysupe - May 16 - 2:00 am

  This car performs great. We enjoy driving it and the kids love it. One caution, be watchful of the engine motor mounts. We had issues with one at 1500 miles but after keeping on the dealship, we got it repaired. It has a motorized motor mount and the entire assembly must be repaired..NOT only the mount!! BUT, otherwise...it has been a fantastic car!

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  Hope the new ones are better - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Blaine - May 14 - 8:43 pm

  Car looks great & handles well. Right away we had trouble with paint chipping on back door sill, dealer was no help even though other Maximas were better. 20000km chrome (plastic) on grille peeled but dealer replaced. 61000km the battery went, 81000km a rear well sensor went, ABS, slip & VDC not working. Replaced the sensor, 220km those features not working again. No problem getting it looked at, the problem is the bill that ALWAYS comes with it. Slight steering wheel vibration, other reviews scares me to thinking it could be bearings. Would I buy another? Not sure at this time, I like the looks of the 09, but am hesitant.

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  My mistress - 1996 Nissan Maxima
  By Nismax - May 14 - 10:00 am

  albeit a patient economical one! This is my second Maxi - I had a 96 SE that was a write off after my wife did a number on it - and I found this on a dealer lot - 5 spd GXE. This tranny has been so much fun to drive and I have nothing but wear and tear items as far as maintenance - tires, plugs, wipers, etc. Gas mileage is wonderful and the great thing is so many people secretly admire this car - even camry owners! Will drive this as long as possible and perhaps upgrade to I35 or 540i

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  Excellent Daily Driver - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By kwamdoo - May 14 - 10:00 am

  I appreciate the sporty feel that the car gives you eventhough its a four door sport sedan which feels as quick, nimble and agile as some two door coupes onthe market today. Im not as tall as many men, but extremely wide across my shoulders. This car seememd to support my wide frame with its wide and supportive seats, rather than having my shoulders sitting out without any support like many other vehicles in its class. The interior design of the controls is somewhat bland, but all and all, is very easy to access while driving.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Jane - May 12 - 2:13 pm

  This is my second Maxima. I cant say enough good about this car. It has been reliable and fun to drive. The interior and trunk are roomy, and the little conveniences like sunglass holder, spacious console box for CDs,extra backseat drink cup holder and power plug make a real difference on trips. The cars power is a big plus when merging in traffic or handling congested but fast-moving freeway driving. I have been pleasantly surprised by gas mileage.

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  Not half bad - 2009 Nissan Maxima
  By Taylor - May 12 - 3:03 am

  Style is great, creature comforts not bad, premium package OK. Averaging 18.7 city and 30.2 on highway.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By DaveCh - May 11 - 10:00 am

  In seven years and 99,000 miles I never had any problems. I bought the car new and would have drove it into the ground if it hadnt been destroyed in a flood. This car had much better quality than any of the Big Three American cars Ive owned. At 99,000 it still didnt need a brake job. The engine is a ten best engine and always had plenty of power especially with the manual which never required any work. Would highly recommmend to someone for the quality and performance and Im looking for a another 97 Maxima. My wife drives a 2003 Maxima.

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  Excellent! Holds Value Well - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By ds - May 11 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is a dream! It handles very well, the Bose steroe system is wonderful. very roomy.

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  I the new Max - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By lee608 - May 11 - 10:00 am

  I own two 1989 Maximas. My daughter in college drives one, my professional protester niece drives around the country in the other. Both are still running great. Until this redesign though, the Maxima lost some its charm / coolness, but the Maxima is back. we bought a Black SL, all options, including the traditional sunroof. We have not had ANY problems, none. I love the way the car drives, handles, feels, the Bose is fantastic. Little league games have the boys coming by saying "cool car" and this is before they hop into their moms Lexus or Mercedes. I traded an Audi A6 for the Maxima and I am a very happy owner.

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  The Best Sedan to Date - 2016 Nissan Maxima
  By Devinn Armstrong - May 9 - 10:21 am

  They should know this car does not compare to any other sedan on the road.