Nissan Maxima

Redesigned for 2016, the Maxima continues to use the smooth, powerful 3.5-liter V6, which is a highlight of the new car. The continuously variable transmission works well for loafing around, but it saps any aspirations of sporty driving. Handling is mundane and the ride is too stiff for a sedan that costs $40,000. The Maxima has a plush interior, a number of high-tech safety and connectivity features, and uses a fairly straightforward infotainment system. A low roofline inhibits access and visibility. Controls are simple to use, and the front seats are very comfortable and supportive. The rear cabin, however, is rather cramped. An SR version with a stiffer suspension is available, but it lacks a sunroof. For 2017, Apple CarPlay is added to the infotainment system. Updates for 2018 included standard forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. Changes for 2019 include new exterior styling, and revised interior trim. Nissan's Rear Door Alert system, giving drivers messages on the driver instrument panel, and multiple horn honks as a way to remind drivers to check the rear seats after they park, is now standard. For 2020, all models come standard with blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Updates for 2022 include standard heated rear seats added to Platinum grade.

Model year 2009 brought a fairly successful redesign of Nissan's flagship, though some of our testers felt the car still didn't say much beyond what the Altima was already saying at a lower price point. Still, the Maxima's ride is well composed, its cabin is quiet and the slick powertrain makes it very quick. Controls are simple and the front seats are comfortable. However, steering is oddly weighted, the low roof inhibits visibility and rear-seat legroom room is unimpressive. Quality interior materials give a good first impression. But a closer look reveals mold lines, mismatched textures and exposed screws.

Even though the Maxima is Nissan's sedan flagship, in many ways it finds a formidable challenger in the more plebian Altima. To counter this, 2004 brought a complete redesign with a strong 3.5-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic. Expect 21 mpg overall on premium fuel. Despite strong acceleration, this version of the Maxima isn't a convincing sports sedan; it drives like a big car, coming up short in agility. The stiff and jiggly ride and wide turning circle prove annoying. Inside, there is generous room for three adults in the back seat, and the front seats are very comfortable, but cabin finish falls short of being luxurious. There are some nice features for the time, like a heated steering wheel and power adjustments for the steering column. A freshening arrived for 2007, with a revised dashboard featuring easier controls. The addition of a CVT improved acceleration, but fuel economy remained stalled at 21 mpg overall.

With the Maxima, Nissan tried to offer German sports sedan performance and luxury at a Japanese price point. Model year 2004 brought a complete redesign with a strong 3.5-liter V6. The ride remained stiff and jiggly, handling wasn't so agile, and the interior was just ordinary. The rear seating was very spacious, though. A CVT and a general freshening arrived for 2007. The 2009 models brought another redesign. The ride is composed, the cabin is quiet, and the slick powertrain makes it very quick. Controls are simple and the front seats are comfortable. However, the steering is oddly weighted, the low roof inhibits visibility, and rear-seat room is unimpressive.