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2018 Nissan Maxima

2018 Nissan Maxima
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MSRP range
$33,270 - $40,940
Edmunds Rating
3.5 out of 5.0
Consumer Rating
(5)
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2018 Nissan Maxima
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Pros

  • Well-made and attractive cabin rivals those of luxury-branded sedans
  • Tech controls are easy to use
  • Lots of features for the money
  • Sharp handling for a midsize sedan

Cons

  • SR trim level's firm ride
  • All-wheel drive is not available
  • High price given the car's size and Nissan badge
  • Back seat and trunk aren't very spacious
Save as much as $9,329

2018 Nissan Maxima pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which Maxima does Edmunds recommend?

The base S model is generously equipped. But if you're considering the Maxima over its lesser Altima sibling, it's probably because you want something a little special. The midpack SL is value-rich, with leather upholstery, a premium audio system, noise reduction measures and several advanced driving aids. If it were our money, we'd get the SL.

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

3.5 / 5

The Maxima isn't like most other sedans you might be considering. It's sportier than the typical family sedan but is equipped and priced more like a large sedan. It could even be an option for an entry-level luxury car. As such, the Maxima is largely a niche offering, but one with undeniable appeal.

Nissan has long called the Maxima a "four-door sports car." Of course, the phrase is mostly marketing hype. But the Maxima handles pretty well when you're driving around turns and comes standard with a powerful V6 engine. There's even a sporty SR trim with unique suspension tuning and performance-oriented driver aids.

Given the Maxima's lengthy list of features, upscale interior appointments and all-around competence, it could be a solid alternative to luxury sedans such as the Acura TLX or Lincoln MKZ. The cabin is so decadently trimmed in the SR and Platinum levels, it outdoes even those cars at that price.

We will note that this year's crop of midsize sedans is pretty appealing. The redesigned Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, in particular, boast sportier styling and stronger performance than ever before. That might dilute the Maxima's appeal considering the Honda and Toyota are roomier and less expensive. But if you're looking for a sedan with equal parts sportiness and unpretentious luxury, the 2018 Nissan Maxima is certainly worth checking out.

Trim levels & features

The 2018 Nissan Maxima sedan comes in five trim levels: the base S, midlevel SV, the slightly more expensive SL, sporty SR and the top-level Platinum.

Like all Maximas, the S is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (300 horsepower, 261 pound-feet of torque) that drives the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

Standard features include 18-inch wheels, LED daytime running lights, foglights, remote engine start, keyless entry and ignition, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, adjustable driving modes, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats (eight-way driver and four-way passenger), a 60/40-split rear seat, a navigation system, an 8-inch touchscreen, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and an eight-speaker audio system with a CD player and satellite radio.

Standard safety systems include a rearview camera and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

The Maxima SV adds front and rear parking sensors, heated mirrors, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and an upgraded driver seat with extendable thigh support and two-way power lumbar adjustment. The SL doesn't cost much more, and its impressive list of extra features includes a dual-panel sunroof, active noise reduction, active engine sound enhancement, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel, ambient interior lighting, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

The SR adds performance enhancements to the SL, with 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, column-mounted paddle shifters, 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 panoramic sunroof is removed, but the SR does add a few luxury features, including LED headlights, ventilated front seats, and upgraded leather upholstery with quilted simulated suede seat inserts and special interior trim.

A rear spoiler and the Midnight Edition package (black-painted wheels and exterior styling elements, rear spoiler, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, driver-seat memory settings and a 360-degree parking camera) are optional for the SR.

The top-trim Platinum does away with some of the SR's add-ons, though it retains the LED headlights and ventilated front seats. It then adds automatic wipers, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, a 360-degree parking camera, a power-adjustable steering column, driver-seat memory settings, a six-way power passenger seat, upgraded leather upholstery and interior trim, a rear power sunshade and NissanConnect services (remote start, automatic collision notification, emergency calling and stolen vehicle location).

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum (3.5L V6 | CVT automatic | FWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Maxima has received some revisions, including newly standard driver aids and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Maxima.

Driving

3.5
The Maxima isn't quite the "four-door sports car" Nissan claims. But it is impressive for a midsize sedan, with above-average handling and strong acceleration from the 300-horsepower V6.

Acceleration

3.5
Zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds is quick but typical for a V6-powered midsize sedan. The CVT is seamlessly smooth during light acceleration and simulates gears when accelerating hard. Torque steer from the front-wheel-drive powertrain is noticeable.

Braking

3
The firm brake pedal is reassuring and easy to modulate. In Edmunds performance testing, the Maxima Platinum posted average stopping distances for a sedan of this size with all-season tires. We noted minimal brake fade after several stops.

Steering

4.5
The steering feels oddly heavy at parking speeds but is otherwise excellent. Turning is fluid and linear in motion with ample feedback unmarred by excessive effort. Two driving modes (Normal and Sport) govern effort — both are good in everyday use; it's a matter of personal preference.

Handling

3.5
The Maxima is an above-average performer for a front-wheel-drive sedan, but all-wheel drive could make this car the performance choice it's marketed to be. Dive into a tight turn and the Maxima feels nose-heavy. The stability control system also limits your fun.

Drivability

4
The Maxima is an easy car to drive. Gear changes are simulated during acceleration and eliminate the typical CVT droning effect. Unlike most CVTs, the transmission doesn't constantly bounce between high and low revs. But it's not good at downhill engine braking.

Comfort

4
The Maxima is a notably quiet car with a ride that nicely toes the line between comfort and feel for the road. It is certainly akin to entry-level luxury cars and a clear step up from midsize family sedans. Seat comfort and adjustment are typical for the price range.

Seat comfort

3
These firm, sporty seats are more typical of a luxury sedan in this price range. Adjustable thigh support is nice; the optional ventilated seats blow cold air rather than circulate cabin air. The rear seats are nicely contoured.

Ride comfort

4
The Platinum's ride is greatly superior to the SR trim's jittery nature. The standard suspension found on the Platinum and other trims is the way to go, demonstrating a controlled, well-damped ride that soaks up bumps without making the driver feel completely isolated.

Noise & vibration

4.5
Sound-reducing glass and materials along with active noise cancellation result in a notably quiet cabin. The V6 is quiet, too.

Interior

3.5
Nissan's electronics interface is a home run. It's both easy to use and looks good — a rare feat. So many luxury car tech interfaces are overly complicated and confusing to use. Cargo space and storage are good for the segment. However, the Maxima is less generous with space for people.

Ease of use

5
The infotainment system has big icons and sensible menus, a redundant knob controller and well-placed physical buttons. Overall, it's easy to use and a good example of how to do it right.

Getting in/getting out

3
You sit low and the roof is low, which could make getting in and out difficult for some. This is especially true with the rear doors and the sloping roofline.

Roominess

2.5
The Maxima might be priced like a large sedan, but it doesn't offer the space of one. The Toyota Avalon and Acura TLX are more spacious. The back seat has limited headroom for those of above-average height, and legroom depends on the front seat position.

Visibility

3
The side mirrors are large. The rear-quarter view is hampered by thick roof pillars. Parking sensors, a surround-view camera and blind-spot monitoring are all standard on the Platinum.

Quality

4
The Maxima's cabin boasts solid construction and a nice mix of high-quality interior materials, the exception being the Platinum's unconvincing and oddly contoured simulated wood trim.

Utility

4
A deep covered bin below the dash keeps a smartphone and its charging cord out of the way. There's a useful center armrest bin and cupholders. The trunk has an adequate 14.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity and an opening wide enough for golf clubs.

Top consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Nissan Maxima.

5 reviews
Smiling Sun Day's
Ravi Rozier,06/24/2018
Every day the sun shines and I walk out to my parked vehicle, I can't help but smile. I'm still in the honeymoon phase where I just adore the sight of my car right before I prepare myself to sit inside and drive to work. I must confess, I smile if it's a rainy day, foggy day, whatever day it is, I smile. Still, the way the sun shines off my 2018 Carnelian red Nissan Maxima Platinum edition is extraordinary. I know I picked the right color. I just purchased the car last month and I had to make a quick decision. I had a gut feeling that if I didn't get off my couch that Sunday afternoon, I would have missed out on the exact color I wanted. I've recently checked and there are only 3 red Platinum editions within 100 miles of here. I bought the car at a dealer 2 miles away from my house so I'm still happy about that. As far as getting in the car, I've read that the Platinum is like a entry level luxury car. That's good enough for me and this car is an upgrade over my 2011 Maxima. The seats are pretty nice. The computer is awesome and it integrates with my Samsung Galaxy with Android Auto. I love it because my old Maxima didn't have the capability to stream music. I'm still geeked up by the fact I can stream all of the latest albums without any issues. There are two USB ports right in the front, so now when I pick up a friend, they don't have to unplug my phone to charge their phone. We can both get to the restaurant with 100% battery power. Also, the obvious prize is no longer having to buy car chargers when the one your using inevitably stops working. Also, the all-around camera is pretty cool. I like it a lot, especially when I realized that most of the Maxima trims don't have it. It helps with parking and now I'm always in the lines in the supermarket parking lot. The other thing that I absolutely love about this Platinum are the LED headlights. In my last Maxima, I thought age was finally catching up to me. I couldn't see too good at night and frequently turned on the bright lights when I was alone on some local streets. The first night I drove the Platinum and those LED automatically came on, it was OMG! In fact, I'm not aging at an accelerated rate, it's just the headlights on my old SV were absolutely horrible. Well, they did work so maybe I'm going a little too hard with the criticism, but the difference is astounding. I love those LED lights and every car I purchase in the future will have to have them. Like I said, I'm still in the honeymoon phase and the car is still pristine. Only had it for a month. Maybe in 6 months I'll be so-so about the car. But as of now, every time I go outside and get ready to go work, I smile as bright as any sun can shine it's glorious rays on my 2018 Carnelian red Maxima Platinum edition.
Our second Maxima
Tim Judd,07/11/2018
We look be the new Maxima. We had a 2012 and absolutely loved it. Very stylish cars, sporty and reliable. Drives like a sports car - love the power of these cars. A great vehicle to own!
Too low to ground
Ron Cozort,06/11/2018
Knocked engine guests off twice retrying rosdwsy with high pitch! Hit parking barriers with front of fender causing $1,000 worth of repairs!
Undercover Luxury Vehicle
LEO,09/14/2018
I owned an infiniti G37 before falling in love with my blue platinum Maxima. I was looking to trade in for a Q50 but the luxurious and well appointed interior, the exciting exterior design and the almost uniqueness of the model (there are not too many out there) made me purchase a great vehicle for almost $15K less than a similarly equipped Infiniti. The Mileage is great, also the premium gas is recommended, not required as in Luxury brands. The only downfall is the service experience. You will not get the same level of service as on a luxury brand but so far I had not any issues requiring service visits , just the first regular maintenance which you can perform anywhere. SO far after 8 months it is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I would recommend it
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$40,940
MPG
21 city / 30 hwy
Seats 5
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Gas
300 hp @ 6400 rpm
MSRP
$37,690
MPG
21 city / 30 hwy
Seats 5
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Gas
300 hp @ 6400 rpm
MSRP
$33,270
MPG
21 city / 30 hwy
Seats 5
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Gas
300 hp @ 6400 rpm
MSRP
$35,270
MPG
21 city / 30 hwy
Seats 5
Continuously variable-speed automatic
Gas
300 hp @ 6400 rpm
See all 2018 Nissan Maxima features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Maxima safety features:

Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
Warns the driver if a front collision is imminent.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Works with the Intelligent Forward Collision Warning system. Automatically applies the brakes to lessen the impact of a front collision.
Intelligent Around-View Monitor
Provides a 360-degree, top-down view of the Maxima to help when parking.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger4 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    Overall5 / 5
  • Side Barrier Rating
    Overall5 / 5
    Driver5 / 5
    Passenger5 / 5
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front Seat5 / 5
    Back Seat5 / 5
  • Rollover
    Rollover5 / 5
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of Rollover9.5%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Good
  • Roof Strength Test
    Good
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Good
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Good
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Good

2018 Nissan Maxima for Sale

Nissan Maxima 2018 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
New 2018
Nissan Maxima
3.5 SL
(10)
Brown's Dulles Nissan
3.1 mi away
MSRP$40,910
Est.Loan: $692/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
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Nissan Maxima 2018 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
New 2018
Nissan Maxima
3.5 S
(1)
Priority Nissan Chantilly
9.3 mi away
MSRP$34,655
Est.Loan: $587/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
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Nissan Maxima 2018 Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
New 2018
Nissan Maxima
Platinum
Brown's Fairfax Nissan
15.1 mi away
MSRP$42,565
Est.Loan: $720/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details

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More about the 2018 Nissan Maxima
2018 Nissan Maxima Overview

The 2018 Nissan Maxima is offered in the following submodels: Maxima Sedan. Available styles include Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT), and 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT).

What do people think of the 2018 Nissan Maxima?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Nissan Maxima and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Maxima 4.5 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 2018 Maxima.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Nissan Maxima and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Maxima featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

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 2018 Nissan Maxima?
2018 Nissan Maxima Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

The 2018 Nissan Maxima Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $42,335. The average price paid for a new 2018 Nissan Maxima Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $9,213 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $9,213 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$33,122.

The average savings for the 2018 Nissan Maxima Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is21.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 51 2018 Nissan Maxima Platinum 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

The 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $36,165. The average price paid for a new 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $8,451 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,451 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$27,714.

The average savings for the 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is23.4% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 50 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

The 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $34,165. The average price paid for a new 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $9,329 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $9,329 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$24,836.

The average savings for the 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is27.3% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 52 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 S 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

The 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,085. The average price paid for a new 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $8,576 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,576 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$30,509.

The average savings for the 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is21.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 45 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SL 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)

The 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,425. The average price paid for a new 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is trending $8,513 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,513 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$30,913.

The average savings for the 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) is21.6% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 11 2018 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

Which 2018 Nissan Maximas are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Nissan Maxima for sale near. There are currently 373 new 2018 Maximas listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $33,020 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used 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 2018 Nissan Maxima. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $9,880 on a used or CPO 2018 Maxima available from a dealership near you.

Can't find a new 2018 Nissan Maximas you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Nissan Maxima for sale - 8 great deals out of 23 listings starting at $7,642.

Find a new Nissan for sale - 3 great deals out of 11 listings starting at $7,878.

Compare prices on the New Nissan Maxima for sale in Ashburn, VA to other major cities

Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 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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