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:

• 

  I bought a Headache - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By george_ok - April 16 - 3:51 am

  Recently I bought a 2005 Maxima without enough prior research (In fact I went to the dealership to buy a Honda and the Salesman convinced me to buying this one instead.) Now, after reading all these horrible reviews about 2004-06 Maxima, everyday I start the car fearing that the transmission is going to fail......it is a real pain to drive a car that we cannot trust....

• 

  Discouraging - 1997 Nissan Maxima
  By Kurt Glover - April 15 - 9:33 pm

  I bought my Maxima August of 2004. I just traded it in (November 2004). I thought I was buying my wife a dependable car but wasnt. After 100,000 miles it starts hard, plus there is a very loud noise coming from the front end that no one can figure out what it is. Keep in mind, you must use premium gas for this engine...This car did not live up to its expectations.

• 

  2nd MAXIMA...LAST MAXIMA - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By 2ndMAX..LastMAX - April 2 - 10:00 am

  This car has been problems from the time it was about 3 months old until now. I have had the car in the shop 7 times now in 9 months. Bose radio was replaced, hood shakes when going highway speeds, electrical problems, and it has also died on me 4 times in the last 2 weeks. Dealership cant fix several of the problems.

• 

  NIGHTMARE! - 2006 Nissan Maxima
  By ncjenn - March 25 - 3:34 am

  A 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!

• 

  Disappointed - 2003 Nissan Maxima
  By Summerdrive - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Well, 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.

• 

  Ok Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Tyler Vanderslice - February 26 - 10:44 am

  I bought my 04 maxima in 05 with around 40k on it and it now has 170k. I love the look and power of the engine. Its style still looks great on the road. I bought the car b/c of style and reliability. The tranny went out around 50k miles(fortunately I had and extended warranty). The CD player went out twice and I always had problems with the heat going out in winter and ac in summer. I was very optimistic about the car but around 150k it just started having continuous problems. The power steering line leaked, the radiator and thermostat went bad and every sensor in the world seems to go bad annually( and it is over 200+ to fix each, 5 different ones have went out). I love the car and have had it for over 10 years but unfortunately I will not buy another one and will stick to toyota or Honda. Nissan just has too many little problems and is not very reliable.

• 

  What a Disappointment - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Rodney H. - February 14 - 10:43 pm

  I purchased my 04 Maxima brand new and had high expectations. The first 3 years were relatively fine .... only minor inconveniences with recalls (sky view roof, heated seats) and minor mechanical issues. During the fourth and fifth years I had nothing but trouble ... motor mounts, transmission, computer errors, sensor trouble. It finally got to the point that the vehicle was unsafe for me to drive my children in ... I was afraid that it would sputter and stall with them in the vehicle as it ahd done to me alone on 2 prior occasions. Finally dumped it at the MBZ dealer and purchased an 08 C350

• 

  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.

• 

  falling apart at 80K mi - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By John - January 23 - 10:40 pm

  The car was more or less fine till it got close to 80K mi. The car never came close to the sticker mi/gl - 23 mi/gl at best. After warranty ended (at 36K) - I replaced MAF, rear brake caliper, alternator, battery, all ignition coils, 1 O2 sensor, 2 sets of tires. Ive been battling with check engine light for two months now... $800 later its still on. Dealership replaces one part after another with no end in sight. Now dealership wants $2,000 more to replace both catalytic converters, refuses to do it under emission warranty. I called Nissan Corp.- they dont want to help either. So much for customer service and loyalty. Oh well, last Nissan that my family will ever buy!

• 

  Difference of Opinion - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By HXed - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Contrary to many of the reviews, my 2001 Nissan Maxima was not that good. I had it for about 4 months before I began to experience suspension problems. So, I contacted Corporate Nissan. Basically they slapped me in the face and denied any responsibility - so I filed for arbitration with a third party. In addition, Nissan does not thoroughly stand behind its products and craftsmanship from their mechanics. I will never own a Nissan and neither will anyone I know. I am going to go back to Acura/Honda were service and quality are of a higher priority than just selling a car to make money.