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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  Super Auto - 2000 Nissan Maxima
  By lamonstra - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Simply put, this is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I have owned approx. 25 other autos. This one is very reliable, quick and decisive. Get one if you have the means.

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  Maxima is a classic - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By jkm - February 13 - 10:00 am

  This car has been an absolute delight to drive. We have never had ANY mechanical problems with it. It has ample power, and the quality of the build is outstanding. With regular care, the exterior and interior are pristine with the exception of some small rock chips to the front end and windshield. We also have a 99 Passat GLX, which despite the excellent reviews, has been a lemon. The Maxima remains our favorite car, and we look forward to the next model change in 2004.

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  What a blast !!! - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Randy - February 9 - 3:43 pm

  What a blast to drivel. The only things that I would change would be the front-wheel drive (too much torque steer) and a more powerful sub for the somewhat weak BOSE system. Ive had no mechanical problems - only routine servicing and a flat. But, my front drivers seat is splitting in a few places. The cars got a big backside, so high speed road handling is not a stable as Id like. But, it IS a sedan. And, a big one at that. U-turns arent always made either. But, I got the 20th Anniversary edition, and I love the subtle fascia and body kit extras that come with it. I just wish there was more of a difference between it and the normal SE edition.

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  lemon law , two recalls one oil seal - 2017 Nissan Maxima
  By lynn - February 9 - 2:27 pm

  this car is my wifes dream car. she loves body style and and the over-all performance . but on a recent road trip we encountered some snow and patches of ice on interstate 80 in Nebraska, and each time we hit a patch of ice, the car seemed to want to bring the rear-end forward. we were the slowest car on the road and had no clue as to why this was happening. tire pressures were sufficient , the wind was trailing, and we were carrying ample weight. after talking to a service manager and hearing of no probable causes, we have since learned of other customers with similar experiences. I would suggest that anyone considering buying this model or an Altima look into this problem. I am thoroughly disappointed with the handling of this car and will be looking at other means of transportation.

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  Excellent Car! - 1999 Nissan Maxima
  By gwalters - February 6 - 2:00 am

  This car is fast, smooth, quiet, and excellent. I have the 5 speed, which is great for the control. Bigger back seat than a camry or accord. Excellent for the 85 mph commute in Massachusettes, and front drive is fine in snow. Excellent in the twisties! It never breaks, and at 98000 miles, I might consider new struts in another 40,000!

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  Exceeds Expectations - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Justin-Ryan - February 4 - 6:06 pm

  I recently purchased a 2010 Black Maxima. This car has plenty of technology and entertainment. The CVT transmission is something you have to get used to, but in daily driving, it truly is perfection. Everyone enjoys the bucket seats in the rear and large panoramic sunroof. The fuel economy is excellent for a vehicle with so much horsepower. The Xenon headlight and LED tailights bring in a lot of compliments. The rear spolier completes the look of a real sports car. I test drove a Malibu LTZ & Camry SE V6, and purchased the Maxima with no regrets. If your looking for a reliable, fast, fun car, this is your ride.

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  So far so good - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By girlfriend1 - February 2 - 6:11 pm

  Ive had the car for almost three years. We bought it with 29,000 miles and thus far all has gone well. Gets scary reading the other reviews. Dont like turning radius. All else has been fine.

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  Love my 98 SE 5 speed - 1998 Nissan Maxima
  By Jonathan - February 2 - 5:20 pm

  Bought this car with 95000 mi. 4 yrs ago and I have been running it hard ever since. The car is comfortable, classy, fast, dependable, fun to drive and now with 195000 mi. still runs strong and torquey. Very few problems in the 100,000 miles I have had it. In really cold weather the cruise control is intermittent. I had to have a new airbag control at 185,000, $750. Now the ABS light is on. Will get that fixed in the spring. Other than that I have had no real problems... still running the same clutch, same water pump, same alternator, same suspension parts, no problems. I love this car. Its one of those rare cars that comes along and it becomes a keeper. I love this car.

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  Great Maxima - 1995 Nissan Maxima
  By CChafin - January 31 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 7 cars, usually Toyotas but this is by far the best Ive had. Very solid and reliable. I would recommend a Maxima to anyone. Great to drive (and I came from an RX-7) and a terriffic value. Get one.

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  Maxima wins me over again - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By MaximaMa - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Last vehicle 96 Maxima. B4 choosing I test drove several other cars in its class & almost bought Subaru Legacy for practical (traction on snowy roads) reasons, but was 2 depresd thinking about giving up my 96 Maxima, so only solution was 2 buy another 1. NO REGRETS! Just as smoooth as can b! I dont know why Edmunds sd the SE had a rough ride?? Feels like Im driving a luxury car. Awesome sporty-looking car,love looks of head&tail lights. Nice looking interior dash&waterfall console. Cortland NYs Royal Nissans sales team were wonderful!