2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan
Pros
- Well-made and attractive cabin rivals those of luxury-branded sedans
- Easy-to-use tech controls
- Abundant features for the money
- Sharp driving dynamics for a midsize sedan
Cons
- Backseat and trunk aren't very spacious
- High price given the car's size and Nissan badge
- All-wheel drive is not available
- SR trim level's firm ride
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
When you're shopping for your next car, you're often comparing neat groupings of models that, for the most part, line up with each other in terms of size, equipment, performance and price. Apples to apples, oranges to oranges, midsize sedan to midsize sedan. Sometimes, though, a car like the 2017 Nissan Maxima comes along that exists outside those neat groupings. It's a disruption to the order, and it presents an interesting -- albeit desirable -- dilemma for shoppers.
The 2017 Nissan Maxima's styling helps it stand out in the midsize sedan crowd.
You see, the Maxima has a price tag and feature set similar to those of a large sedan like the Toyota Avalon, but it's not as roomy on the inside. (It's not even as roomy as a midsize sedan like the Ford Fusion, either.) The Maxima's standard V6 engine offers similarly strong acceleration as the most powerful midsize sedan engines, but its athletic handling capabilities and refined driving experience are more evocative of entry-level luxury sedans like the Acura TLX. Yet those entry-luxury sedans obviously give you more brand cachet than the Maxima's humble Nissan badge, and they're also often offered with all-wheel drive and are frequently even sportier to drive.
So is the 2017 Nissan Maxima an oddball to ignore or an intriguing alternative to the status quo? If you go by traditional sales figures, most people go with the former. But we think the Maxima is worth taking a look. Apples to oranges, it's one of the more interesting and appealing midsize sedans out there.
Standard safety features on the 2017 Nissan Maxima include antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. Standard on the SL and above are a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and a forward collision warning and mitigation system with automatic braking. (The forward collision warning and mitigation system is standard on all 2017.5 models.) The Platinum model also adds a 360-degree parking camera system with a moving object detection system that sounds a beep and gives video alerts on the center screen when even small objects are moving anywhere around the vehicle. The Platinum also includes a driver drowsiness monitor and NissanConnect, which includes automatic collision notification, remote starting, emergency calling and stolen vehicle locating.
In government crash tests, last year's Maxima earned an overall score of five stars (out of a possible five), with five stars for total front-impact safety and five stars for total side-impact safety. The Maxima also earned top scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, receiving a Good rating in the moderate- and small-overlap front-offset impact tests as well as a Good rating in the side impact, roof strength and seat/head restraint tests. The IIHS also tested the Maxima's forward collision mitigation system and awarded it a score of Superior.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Maxima Platinum with all-season tires stopped from 60 mph in 122 feet, which is slightly below average for sedans of this caliber.
2017 Nissan Maxima configurations
The 2017 Nissan Maxima is a five-passenger midsize sedan available in five trim levels: S, SV, SL, the sporty SR and the top-of-the-line Platinum.
Standard features of the base S model include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglights, LED running lights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats (eight-way driver and four-way passenger), cloth upholstery, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Electronics features include a large gauge cluster display, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a navigation system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, two USB ports and an eight-speaker sound system with satellite radio, HD radio and a six-CD changer.
Maximas with the 2017.5 model year designation are also equipped with standard forward collision warning with automatic braking.
The SV model adds heated outside mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats and an upgraded driver seat with extendable thigh support and two-way power lumbar. The Dynamic package adds a "premium" rear spoiler, different 18-inch wheels and side sill extensions.
The SL model gets a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, active noise cancellation, active engine sound enhancement, a premium 11-speaker Bose audio system and adaptive cruise control. It also adds several safety features (see Safety section below).
The sporty SR adds 19-inch wheels (with available summer performance tires), a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters that engage simulated gear ratios, Active Ride Control (uses the brakes to quell body motions over bumps), Active Trace Control (uses targeted braking to keep the vehicle on its intended path) and active engine braking that helps slow the car when heading aggressively into corners or approaching a stop. The SR also has LED headlights, heated and ventilated front seats, and upgraded leather upholstery with quilted simulated suede seat inserts and special interior trim. The SR does not have a panoramic sunroof, but it can be equipped with summer tires (packaged with a full-size spare tire) and the Midnight Edition package that includes a "sport" rear spoiler, a rear diffuser and gloss black wheels.
The Maxima's Platinum trim level comes standard with the panoramic sunroof. You can't get it on the SR, though.
To the SL's equipment roster, the Platinum adds the LED headlights, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, driver memory settings, premium diamond-quilted leather upholstery, automatic wipers, a power rear sunshade, a 360-degree parking camera system (with a moving object detection system) and a driver attention alert system. The Platinum also features NissanConnect (see Safety section for more information). The Medallion Edition package adds that "premium" rear spoiler, different 18-inch wheels, interior accent lighting and exterior ground lighting.
The 2017 Nissan Maxima is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard.
In Edmunds testing, a Maxima Platinum sprinted from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is a few ticks quicker than average for a midsize sedan with a V6 or similarly powered engine. As for EPA-estimated fuel economy, expect 25 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway). Edmunds managed 28.1 mpg on the 116-mile Edmunds evaluation route, which is a strong showing.
Driving
Nissan has long suggested that the Maxima is a "four-door sports car." In our experience, the 2017 Maxima does feel rather sporty, with nicely controlled body motions and commendable grip around turns that equate to dynamic talents greater than the typical mid- or full-size sedan. However, the steering is oddly slow in parking lots and gets light as speeds rise (the opposite is true with most modern cars), and quick left-right transitions can flummox it. And although the sportier SR improves handling further, its firmer suspension essentially ruins what is a comfortable and controlled ride in all other trims. As a result, we would avoid the Maxima SR.
Hit the gas and the Maxima accelerates quickly, though it isn't really any quicker than other midsize sedans with upgrade engines.
The 3.5-liter V6 provides ready and willing power across the rev range, and it works well with the CVT, although torque steer (the feeling of the car pulling left or right as you accelerate) is noticeable during hard acceleration. As with other CVTs, the Maxima's transmission has no fixed gear ratios. However, Nissan has added seven simulated gear ratios that are used in certain instances to provide the feeling of a regular automatic transmission, minimizing the prolonged high-rpm droning that has given CVTs a bad reputation. We generally like the result, as the CVT does a pretty fair impression of a conventional automatic without giving up its edge in fuel economy.
Interior
The 2017 Maxima may not have the brand name of a luxury car, but it has the interior of one. Passengers are surrounded by quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces on most of the major touch points. Nissan's Zero Gravity seats are present as well. They're supportive, though we haven't found these to be as superbly comfortable as the ones in the Nissan Altima. One particularly thoughtful feature is the bin mounted forward of the shifter that contains two USB ports, space for all but the biggest phones on the market and a slot to mount a phone vertically so you can see messages as they pop up.
The Maxima's cabin is stylish, well made and comes with an easy-to-use touchscreen tech interface.
However, for 2017, Apple users probably won't need to. With the addition of standard Apple CarPlay, you can now control a basic selection of apps (including text messaging) through voice controls and the terrific, easy-to-use Nissan touchscreen that's bolstered by a handy, redundant knob controller similar to those found in many luxury-branded cars. Android Auto is unavailable, though.
In terms of space, front and rear legroom is acceptable, but the Maxima can't match the rear seat space of less expensive midsize sedans like the Ford Fusion or Honda Accord, let alone similarly priced sedans like the Toyota Avalon. Similarly, the Maxima's 14.3-cubic-foot trunk is smaller than those competitors as well. It is similar to many entry-level luxury sedans, however.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2017 Nissan Maxima.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2017 Nissan Maxima video
BRYN MACKINNON: I'm Bryn MacKinnon, and this is an Edmunds Expert Rundown of the 2017 Nissan Maxima. One thing we'll say for the latest Maxima is that there's nothing else quite like it on the road. The styling is guaranteed to stand out, especially in the large sedan segment, which isn't exactly known for adventurous design. On the road, the Maxima does its darndest to live up to Nissan's four door sports car label. The driving feel is certainly sportier than the norm, and the big v6 engine's got plenty in reserve. We just wish there was a little less torque steer, which is when the wheel tugs this way and that when you really slam on the gas. It's pronounced in the Maxima, but for some that's a fair trade off for all that power on tap. The back seat is a bit of a disappointment, as large sedans usually have copious room back there, and the Maxima just doesn't. But the real story is up front, where Nissan has created a sports car-like environment for the driver. The center console rises high, and the controls wrap around, making for a cockpit-like feel. There's a great place for your smartphone ahead of the shifter, and the zero gravity front seats are super comfortable. Really nicely done. The bottom line with the Maxima is that it's not for everyone. Many large sedan shoppers will gravitate toward traditional models, like the Buick Lacrosse and Toyota Avalon-- but if you're looking for some uniquely sporty character in this class, this Maxima could be the only test drive you'll need. For more Edmunds Expert Rundowns, click the link to subscribe.
2017 Nissan Maxima Expert Rundown Review
Looking for a car that's a step above the typical family sedan experience in sportiness and style? Then check out the 2017 Nissan Maxima. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.
Features & Specs
Safety
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan for Sale
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See your car's valueThe 2017 Nissan Maxima is enigmatic. While its modestly sized interior places it firmly in the midsize sedan class, it comes at a price on par with larger, full-sized sedans. The Maxima has humble badging but then is unexpectedly refined, impressing with its stylish interior that feels quality-made to the touch, the type we'd expect from an entry-level luxury model. Its power performance runs right with the pack for its midsize class but then nimble handling and a polished driving feel point again to entry-luxury rivals. These difficult to classify attributes leave us feeling a bit quizzical. Regardless, the Maxima is exciting and stylish and etches out a unique niche for itself that just may be attractive to the buyer who values driver experience over brand cachet.
Fully redesigned one model year prior, the 2017 Maxima returns largely unchanged. It does get a technology upgrade in the form of Apple CarPlay which joins the Maxima's already easy-to-use tech controls. Its 8.0-inch touchscreen features the NissanConnect infotainment system. The Maxima is Nissan's first model to offer CarPlay smartphone integration, which is newly standard equipment on Nissan's flagship sedan. Hold tight Android fans; Nissan has yet to integrate Android Auto functionality.
Drivers can rest assured that underneath its desirable styling the Maxima offers stellar safety features. It earned an overall five-out-of-five stars in government crash tests in both total front-impact and total side-impact tests. There are, however, a few areas where we think the Nissan Maxima falls short. While we brag that it has better handling than we'd expect from a midsize sedan, there's no all-wheel-drive option like that offered on many other comparatively priced models. Additionally, the lack of space in the back seat and trunk leave us wanting more room, especially at the Maxima's price point.
Fuel economy on the Maxima is an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined (21 city/30 highway).
The midsize Maxima seats five passengers and is offered in five trim levels: S, SV, SL, a sporty SR and a plushly optioned Platinum. An impressive electronics suite comes standard on the base level S and up. SV and SL models add a plethora of cabin-comfort features while the SL and higher boast safety technology for the concerned driver. The SR appeals to performance lovers with its paddle shifters and sport-tuned suspension (though overly firm in our evaluation). The Platinum trim offers a finely honed mix of additional luxury and safety upgrades.
It may have an odd assortment of characteristics but the 2017 Maxima is reasonably affordable and polished beyond the average family sedan. If you're in the market for a midsize sedan, the Maxima is one of the most interesting, defies easy classification and is worth consideration.
Edmunds is here to help find the perfect 2017 Nissan Maxima for you.
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan Overview
The 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan is offered in the following styles: 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 SV w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), and 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT).
What do people think of the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Maxima Sedan 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Maxima Sedan.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Maxima Sedan featuring deep dives into trim levels including 3.5 SL, Platinum, 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan?
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
The 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,760. The average price paid for a new 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $6,314 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,314 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$33,446.
The average savings for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is15.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
The 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $33,745. The average price paid for a new 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $7,225 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7,225 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$26,520.
The average savings for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is21.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan 3.5 S w/Prod. End 04/17 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
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Which 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedans are available in my area?
2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan Listings and Inventory
There are currently 4 new 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedans listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $33,745 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $7,225 on a new, used or CPO 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan for sale near you.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan and all available trim types: 3.5 SV w/Prod. End 04/17, 3.5 SL, 3.5 SR, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2017 Nissan Maxima Sedan include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2017 Nissan Maxima?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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2017 Nissan Maxima Information
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