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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  Flawless, fun, fast! - 2002 Nissan Maxima
  By alias777 - December 29 - 2:00 am

  By far the best car Ive ever owned (I had a Lexus before this). This car is comfortable, sporty, fast, fun to drive, powerful, luxurious. I love everything about it. Ive only owned it about 6 months, but I absolutely love it. Its the sharpest looking car on the road, plus its comfortable and fun to drive too.

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  My Fifth Nissan Maxima - New 2004 SE - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Al Kappenstein - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The 2004 Max is my fifth. I started with a 91,92,98,2000 and now the 04. The 04 Max is by far the best of the litter. It has come a long way. I thought my 2000 Max was as good as it could get, but Nissan proved me wrong. The 04 is a good looking car (sexie as my wife says) and the performance matches the look. I had it in the drive way 45 minutes and the neighbors were all over it. In fact two of them asked me to adopt them......no kidding. It is fun to drive. My previous cars all were manual shifts, but I went with the automatic/manual trans in the 04. I am thrilled with its performance. If you love to drive, the 04 max is just for you.

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  Bext Maxima Ever - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Msquare - December 29 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Nissan Maxima (previous models 1996 GXE, 2000 GLE). I absolutely LOVE this car!!! Nissan really got it right this time. This version is much more comfortable than previous versions. The car handles and rides very well. Also, a lot more luxury items than previous models.

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  Compare than buy this one - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By stevexsxsxsxs - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Shopped for nearly 4 months, and really drove them all. Even took a decibel meter to measure road noise. Maxima was number 1. For overall form, fit, and function nothing compares under $40k. We drive it everyday to work and to Canada twice a month for ski trips. I can afford nearly any other human car, Id buy another Maxima, dot.

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  Forth Nissan purchase for me - 2001 Nissan Maxima
  By Maxie - December 27 - 10:00 am

  This is the 4th Nissan Ive purchased and that first purchase goes all the way back to when they wer called Datsuns. I went once with another vechile line and came back running. If you what a well built car with a manufacter that will satnd behind what they sell stay with the Nissan. Great car to drive, good looking (could make the rear-end look a little more sporty), great service record. And, dosent cost a fortune to buy.

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  Honda loyalist - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By George - December 26 - 6:43 pm

  I have owned Honda products for the past 15 years. I was very happy. I finally made the conversion, and bought my first NISSAN MAXIMA..and I have No Regrets! The MAXIMA is exceptional at every level. I really like the 265 HP 6cyl, which effortlessly and quietly accelerates, with room to spare. With or WithOut all the of Trim Bells and Whistles, it is a Solids Sports Sedan, that I will be driving for years to come. Totally, the best "Bang for the Buck"

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  A Buttkicker - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By Joe Fevelo - December 26 - 12:20 pm

  Forget the Lexus,Acura, Avalon, this car blows their doors off! Not only is the car less expensive than the overpriced above models it out performs in all areas including looks & dependibilty.Also a very high resale value, pound for pound the best car on the road! Reminds me of my dads old Buick , built like a tank & fast as hell! Great on gas too!

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  Made A Good Choice - 2005 Nissan Maxima
  By G.B. - December 22 - 4:36 am

  I looked at alot of options from the 300, A6, Altima, and Acura. All had nice style and ride, but as price went up I didnt see much of an increase in luxary. My dealer gave me a flat out price of $29500 for the Maxima SL w/ Navi and all the perks. I feel like Im riding in a really well styled car with great power and smooth handling. Could not be happier.

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  What a Car - 2004 Nissan Maxima
  By Quick Review - December 18 - 10:00 am

  First time buyer of Nissan and Maxima. I have been driving new Fords for 20 years, wont be going back. Love the car, love the ride. Smooth, quiet, comfortable and powerful when you need it, what more could you ask for? Try it out you wont be disappointed for the price.

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  Outstanding Machine - 2010 Nissan Maxima
  By Tupdog12 - December 13 - 7:50 am

  This is one heck of an automobile. I purchased an 09 Maxima in May of 09 and put 18,000 miles on it in 6 months (all pleasure). My ego & love for this automobile got the best of me so I purchased a new 2010 Maxima equipped the same way (Nav & Sport pkg.)and even maintained the same white color. The performance is fantastic and despite other comments, I love the CVT. Boy!! It is smooth. The engine has just enough growl and fuel mileage is acceptable considering what you are driving.(22/23 overall) Based upon my experience with a 2009 Murano dual moonroof, I do not recommend the premium package (dual moonroof) until Nissan is able to develop a moonroof wind deflector. Too much wind noise.