Pros: Delivers an extra dose of style and performance while maintaining mainstream 4-door-sedan practicality and affordability; classy interior trimmings; good selection of trim levels and available features
Cons: Rear-seat space and trunk room are stingy compared to many midsize-sedan competitors; stiff ride with SR model’s sport suspension and 19-inch wheels; non-SR models aren’t quite as agile as the “4-door sports car” moniker promises
CG Says: The Nissan Maxima is little changed for 2017. Maxima gains standard Apple CarPlay this year. Nissan’s “4-door sports car” midsize sedan was redesigned from the ground up last year. The current Nissan Maxima is 1.3 inches lower and 2.2 inches longer than the model it replaced. It has dramatic styling, a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 300 horsepower, and a host of new safety and technology features. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the lone gearbox available, but it’s a performance-oriented “XTronic” unit with Nissan’s D-Step shifting logic for a more-responsive feel. Among the Maxima’s features are remote engine start, a Drive Mode Selector that offers Normal and Sport settings, and a standard navigation system. Available safety features include Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Warning, and Driver Attention Alert. The Maxima’s aggressive styling, 300-hp V6, and various tech features help it stand out from all the Altimas, Honda Accords, and Toyota Camrys. However, it’s not as spacious inside as the top midsize sedans, and it’s not as prestigious or athletic as luxury-brand sport sedans. As such, the Nissan Maxima is a fine choice for buyers who are looking for a bit more spice in their mainstream midsize sedan, but don’t want to step up to the higher costs of a luxury-brand sport sedan.
| Class | Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Nissan |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | S: $32,560 SV: $34,540 SL: $37,040 SR: $37,820 Platinum: $39,990 |
| Base Engine 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 300 |
| Std. Transmission CVT |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30 |
