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 921 through 930 of 3,122.00-
Sport Sedan - 2002 Nissan Maxima
By mombear - March 27 - 10:00 amAfter 40,000 miles, this car remains fun to drive. Except for a O2 sensor, Ive had no problems. Highway mileage is 30 MPG. The RE92 tires will go 50K. My major complaint is the fact that the engine holds on to its revs between shifts.
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2 years not a problem - 2009 Nissan Maxima
By texdave - March 26 - 3:38 pmI leased the car new with a fantastic lease deal. It is fast and fun to drive. 21 mpg average city and highway driving and I drive fast. 45,000 miles and have had no problems with the car at all. I would highly recommend this car. Try to find a good deal on a used one.
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Most car for your money! - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By T Huss - March 26 - 3:10 amAbsolutely the best sedan you can get on the market for $30K. Love this car, and oh so fun to drive! Never owned a Nissan until now. Will buy one again. Understand too that theyre now better cars since the French bought Nissan. Great backseat comfort & room. Lots of power, makes it a breeze to merge onto a freeway! You cannot lose with this car!
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NIGHTMARE! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
By ncjenn - March 25 - 3:34 amA week after buying this car in July 12, I took it back, since it had been driving badly. After about 15 minutes of driving, the engine would rev to over 4k RPMs and then jerk hard,even slamming me back into my seat. When it did it for my husband, he insisted there was definitely a problem with the tranny. Not slipping, but rather shifting hard. My dealer waited for Nissan to respond, and of course, Nissan refused to participate. So when my dealer offered to put in a re-built tranny, it also turned out to be bad. Now waiting on Nissan rep to come investigate. Disgusted that Nissan makes a car and only stands behind it for a few years. I now wish they would stand in front of it!
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Cam Crank Sensors 200K+miles 2005 Nissan Max - 2005 Nissan Maxima
By margiea4 - March 23 - 12:08 amI purchased my 2005 with 13K miles - not perfect on the maintenance, but I do take care of it. This car has surpassed 200K miles (do a lot of driving). Problem with transmission and dash warnings with TCS with car stalling not shifting into gear. Transmission shop wanted 3800.00 :-(. Got second opinion and got computer analysis. Spent $160.00 on sensors and hubby did the work. Hubby automatic Hero Status :-). Car runs like a baby again. Thank you YouTube.
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The Max - 1997 Nissan Maxima
By Doug - March 22 - 3:43 amIve had my Max for 4 years and have enjoyed nearly every minute. Few options exist for those needing midsize room but enjoy rowing through the gears in the twisties. With the 5-speed the Max is an economical solution for those craving a 5-Series. The engine is strong and reliable, even 8 years after it was born. The handling was sloppy and ride height unnaturally tall. Replacing the stock suspension with Koni shocks and Eibach springs, and later a short throw shifter, made the Max an exciting car to drive. Comfortable on long commutes and thrilling through the turns, I love this car. She has it all, performance, fit & finish, reliability, and enduring good looks.
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My Maxima is the MAX. - 2016 Nissan Maxima
By Joe Dvorsky - March 21 - 9:29 amThe Maxima is a great car. I only have 660 miles on my Maxima SL, and already love it. It is a great value considering the equipment included. The SL is so well equipped, that there are no option packages. Everything that is optional are individual items. The fit and finish is something you would expect to see in a Lexus, Acura, Cadillac, etc. If I were to say anything negative, I would say the Maxima never quite lived up to the 4DSC label, and the new 2016 is no exception. Despite this, the car is fast (well composed at high speeds), handles very well, and is a great driving experience. I have had my Maxima on two road trips, and hoped neither would come to an end.
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fourth maxima in a row - 1995 Nissan Maxima
By maxima fan - March 20 - 2:00 amThis is my 4th Maxima in a row. I buy them at 125,000 (around $6000) and sell them with 225,000 miles (around $1500). Ive never had to work on any Maxima motor or trans!!!! I had to replace an alternator once. It is the best car for the money, PERIOD !!!! I cant afford to drive anything else.
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Disappointed - 2003 Nissan Maxima
By Summerdrive - March 20 - 2:00 amWell, I chose the Maxima over the Avalon and now think I regret my choice. Yes the Maxima has the horsepower, it has a more progressive look BUT the ride is rough, it is a little work to dirve, and outside noise is detectable. So if you only have short hops want to accelerate to 60 -70 and then go slow its great. If you want to cruise and drive for more than 30 minutes at speed NOT A GOOD CHOICE - This weekend I am going to buy an Avalon - will accept less exterior sex appeal look and horsepower for Luxury ride / quietness which should be expected in a $30K car.
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My Sweeeet Baby! - 2001 Nissan Maxima
By davekog - March 20 - 2:00 amA true dream to drive...almost drives itself-->responsive, sure handling, gobbles up bumps on the road. Never a problem..easily the best automobile Ive ever owned!
