Nissan Maxima
2016-2023
The A36 Maxima represented Nissan's bold interpretation of the sport sedan genre with dramatic styling and comfortable performance. It balanced premium amenities with engaging driving dynamics despite its front-wheel-drive layout.
Quick Take
The eighth-generation Maxima represented Nissan's flagship sedan with bold styling and premium features. It featured a powerful VQ35DE V6 engine mated exclusively to a CVT transmission with simulated gear steps. Despite being front-wheel drive, it offered sporty handling characteristics and a well-appointed interior.
Best For
Key Strength
VQ V6 Power
Watch For
CVT Limitations
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
The Maxima nameplate has served as Nissan's flagship sedan since 1981, evolving from a luxury variant of the Bluebird. The A36 generation continued this tradition while embracing more aggressive styling cues inspired by Nissan's sports car heritage.
Design Philosophy
The A36 featured Nissan's emotional geometry design language with a floating roof, aggressive front fascia, and sculpted body lines. The interior emphasized premium materials and driver-focused ergonomics with zero-gravity inspired seats.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The VQ35DE V6 delivered smooth, linear power delivery with a refined note characteristic of Nissan's VQ engine family. While not turbocharged, it provided strong mid-range torque and reliable performance across the rev range.
Chassis Dynamics
Despite front-wheel drive, the Maxima offered surprisingly engaging handling with well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The chassis provided a good balance between comfort and sportiness, though ultimate performance was limited by the drivetrain layout.
Sound Signature
The VQ V6 produced a refined, cultured exhaust note that became more prominent under acceleration.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The naturally aspirated 3.5L VQ35DE delivers a genuine 300hp with classic VQ sound character. This proven engine provides strong acceleration and highway passing power that turbocharged competitors can't match for linear delivery.
Nissan's NASA-inspired seat design reduces fatigue on long drives better than most luxury sedans. The front seats offer excellent support and comfort that justifies the Maxima's touring credentials over pure sport focus.
Honest Tradeoffs
Despite programming improvements and manual mode, the Xtronic CVT still dulls the driving experience compared to traditional automatics. The rubber-band effect remains noticeable under hard acceleration, limiting driver engagement.
As a discontinued model, the Maxima sits awkwardly between mainstream and luxury segments. It lacks the prestige of German competitors while being pricier than equally capable mainstream alternatives.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for buyers seeking a distinctive, well-equipped sedan with sporty styling and reliable performance for daily driving.