Nissan Maxima
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Maxima
Overview
Manufacturer Nissan
Production 1977–present
Chronology
The Nissan Maxima is a mid-size/entry-level luxury car manufactured by Nissan, marketed as the "four-door sports
car". The origins of the Maxima began in July 1976 as the Datsun 810, an upscale six-cylinder version of the
Bluebird, and was spun into its own line in 1981, having been made continuously since then. The "Maxima" name
was applied gradually, beginning in 1981. Most pre-2004 Maximas were built in Oppama, Japan, until the current
North American Maximas started being assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee.
The "Maxima" has also been applied to Cefiros and Laurels in various markets.
1977–1980
Datsun 810
Nissan Maxima 2
Overview
Production 1977–1980
Layout FR layout
Powertrain
The Maxima model line began with the six-cylinder Nissan Bluebird 2000G6, which was available in the US as the
Datsun 810 from February 1977. With a longer nose than the regular Bluebird, to accommodate a longer inline-six
engine, it was powered by two versions of the SOHC L-series I6 engine: a 2.0 L displacement for the Japanese
market and a 2.4 L24E unit (as found in the Datsun 240Z) for the US market. The Bluebird G6 used a carburetor for
the base model and fuel injection for the sporty version. The 2.0 L engine was good for 122 PS JIS (90 kW), while
the bigger American engine could reach 125 hp SAE (93 kW). The sporty version channeled power through a four
speed manual transmission for the sedan and wagon, five speed transmission for the coupe. These cars were
rear-wheel drive and had a semi-trailing arm rear suspension. The station wagon variant, only sold in North America,
had the rear live axle for load carrying reasons. Some fuel injected versions had automatic transmissions.
The 2-door coupé version was introduced in 1979 along with an exterior refresh, but a coupé version was never
available in later 810/Maximas. The new Datsun 280ZX did not share much of the 810's chassis as thought, though
the 810 was not available with that Z car's larger 2.8 L engine. The first use of the "Maxima" name happened on a
domestic Japanese market luxury version of the Stanza, in August 1977.
1981–1984
First generation
Overview
Production 1981–1984
Layout FR layout
Powertrain
The first car to wear the Maxima name was introduced in 1980 for the 1981 model year. It was essentially a
Japanese-market Bluebird 910 with a 3.9 in (99 mm) longer nose to accommodate the inline-six engine. The car was
offered as the 810 Deluxe or 810 Maxima that first year, and all 810s became Maximas for 1982. In 1984, the last
year of the first generation Maxima, American Datsuns began carrying the "Nissan" badge as well (only 1984
Nissans have both "Nissan" and "Datsun" on the back of the car). Toyota responded to the introduction of the
Maxima by giving the Toyota Mark II a more upmarket sibling, the Cressida.
The second generation retained the same base engine as the previous Datsun 810. It was also available with the
LD28 OHC 2.8 L I6 Diesel engine (available in the US from mid-1981 through 1983) with either a five-speed
manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
Some of the power steering pumps were sourced from General Motors' Saginaw Gear division, while others were
sources from Atsugi. This was the second Nissan to use US-sourced parts besides the Borg-Warner T-5 transmission
used in the 82-86 Nissan ZX Turbos. The use of USA-made parts was phased in prior to the passage of local content
laws imposed by the U.S. Government.
One interesting fact about this car is its phonograph-based voice warning system. Warnings like those for a door
being open, etc. would be relayed through the mini phonograph and played for the driver to hear. A common thing to
hear would be, "door is open, key is in ignition." 1981 models were the first 'talking car' sold in the US and offered
only one voice warning, a female voice reminding the driver that the "Lights are on.".
1985–1988
Nissan Maxima 4
Second generation
Overview
Production 1985–1988
Layout FF layout
Powertrain
Dimensions
In the fall of 1984, the first front-wheel drive Maxima (based on the Bluebird U11) was introduced. This Maxima
was available with a 157 hp (117 kW) 3.0 L VG30E V6 engine and a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual
transmission. In Japan a smaller two-litre version of this engine was fitted. These engines were shared with the
300ZX/Fairlady and the Japanese market Nissan Cedric /Gloria, and was the first V6 engine to be mass produced in
Japan. The second generation was assigned compact status in the US market. This was the last generation to be
available as a station wagon, a version which had been offered since the Datsun 810 days.
Nissan Maxima 5
The Japanese market "Bluebird Maxima" received a four-door hardtop bodywork and a two-litre V6 engine (with an
available turbocharger). Neither the pillared sedan nor the station wagon bodywork was available in the home
market.
1989–1994
Third generation
Overview
Production 1988–1994
Layout FF layout
Powertrain
Dimensions
Chronology
The Maxima was redesigned for the 1989 model year as the J30 (not to be confused with the unrelated Infiniti J30)
model. Bigger dimensions made it the second Japanese sedan sold in the USA to qualify as a "mid-size" (after the
Mazda 929); it was also the first Japanese car to exceed Japan's 67 in (1,701.8 mm) width restriction legislation,
making it fairly comfortable for three rear seat passengers. Surprisingly, weight actually decreased slightly from the
former generation. Nissan called the new Maxima a 4-Door Sports Car and even gave it a "4DSC" window decal
showing this. It now featured a 160 hp (119 kW) 3.0 L V6, with a 190 hp (142 kW) VE30DE engine standard on the
SE model starting in 1992. The VG30E was an engine that had been used in the previous Maxima, as well as the first
generation Nissan 300ZX. An interesting feature was the digital touch entry system on the GXE (in conjunction with
the new Luxury Package), which allowed the windows to be lowered and the moon roof opened without the key in
the ignition. In the United States, the VG30E engine, which featured a variable intake manifold on both automatic
and manual transmission models, was used on all 1989–1994 GXE models and 1989–1991 SE models. This
generation Maxima was fitted with an independent rear suspension.
The VE30DE engine was exclusively offered on the 1992–1994
Maxima SE. It was a 3.0L, 24 valve, DOHC motor. Its iron block was
topped with aluminum cylinder heads and featured a dual length intake
manifold (5-speed model only), variable intake valve timing, coil on
plug ignition, plus a limited-slip differential. The VE30DE was rated at
190 hp (142 kW) @ 5600rpm and 205 lb·ft (278 N·m) @ 4000rpm, and
had a 6500rpm redline. The SE models can be further distinguished
1990–1992 Nissan Maxima (J30) M sedan
from the GXE by their white-faced gauges, twisted-spoke turbine
(Australia and South Africa)
wheels (.5 inch wider than GXE wheels), body-colored grille, twin-tip
mufflers, factory-tinted tail lights, black trim replacing chrome, firmer
sport suspension, and optional 5-speed manual transmission. The automatic transmission on all GXEs (RE4F02A)
was an innovative compact unit from Jatco, which featured 'sport' and 'comfort' modes that shifted at different points.
The 1992–1994 SE received an optional
Nissan Maxima 7
All Australian variants had automatic transmissions and the VG30E Engine only. Versions sold in Japan, Europe,
and New Zealand had manual transmission option as an alternative to the automatic transmission that was standard
in North America and Australia. The Maxima SE was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1990.
Another Bluebird Maxima continued on as a Nissan Bluebird U12 and solely as a station wagon with the VG20ET
engine during this period until the introduction of the Nissan Bluebird U13, and the Avenir replaced the Bluebird
wagon altogether.
1995–1999
Fourth generation
Overview
Production 1994–1999
Layout FF
Powertrain
Dimensions
Nissan Maxima 8
The car was redesigned again for 1995 as the A32. A new VQ30DE
190 hp (141 kW), 205 lb·ft (278 N·m) tq 3.0 L V6 was the only engine
option for the North American market. The VQ30DE earned a first
spot on the Ward's 10 Best Engines List, and the VQ has now been
recognized consecutively for every year since its introduction (as of
2012, 18 years running). The independent rear suspension of the
1995-1996 Nissan Maxima (US) previous generation was replaced with a lighter and cheaper torsion bar
solid axle system.
The Maxima's primary competitor, the Toyota Cressida, was discontinued after the 1992 model year, with Toyota
touting the FWD Toyota Avalon, a stretched version of the Toyota Camry introduced in 1994, as its replacement.
The Maxima's exterior was refreshed for 1997, with new 5-spoke alloy wheels, plastic (clear-lens) headlights vs. the
previous glass headlights, a slightly different front and rear fascia with new redesigned tail-lights, the rear-facing
part of the trunk was smoothed out to match the tail-lights, re-designed fog-lights and badge designs, and a chrome
grille insert for GLE's (body color for SE models) was added. Among interior changes were a different steering
wheel and CD player. Front seat-mounted side impact airbags were added as an option for 1998 and 1999 SE and
GLE models. There were also structural modifications to improve crash worthiness for the 1997 to 1999 models. The
1999 Nissan Maxima also saw some minor changes: an Anti-Theft Engine Immobilizer was standard using a chip in
the ignition key, as well as some minor body trims. The '99 Maxima was the only 4th Generation offered with
optional traction control.
The 1999 Maxima SE was also available with a Limited Package which consisted of Titanium tinted SE-Limited
emblems on the front doors, titanium tinted trunk emblems, and titanium tinted 16" alloy wheels. The interior gauge
cluster was also titanium tinted and the optional leather seats were preforated and embossed with SE on the
backrests. The front floor mats were also embossed with SE-Limited logos.
The North American 1995 Maxima included a Bose Sound System on the GLE (optional on the SE) which had a 6
speaker sound system, a Clarion system was also an option (non-Bose). The fourth generation Maxima was highly
praised for its roomy interior.
This Maxima was Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1995. The Maxima SE again made Car and Driver
magazine's Ten Best list for 1995 and 1996.
The 1995 VQ30DE (3.0 litre) engine produced 190 hp (142 kW) and 205 lb·ft (278 N·m) of torque. With the manual
transmission 0-60 mph took 6.7 seconds with a quarter mile time of 15.2-seconds at 92.4-mph.
A top-of-the-line 1995 Maxima GLE equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission turned in a 7.5-second
0-60-mph run with a 15.6-second/89.4-mph quarter mile time.
At the time, the Maxima was one of a few four-door, six-cylinder cars sold in North America with a standard manual
transmission. The automatic was a no cost option which most Maximas were equipped with.
This particular generation was sold in Japan as the Nissan Cefiro A32, which previously had been its own higher
specification model with rear-wheel drive car (see A31 Cefiro). For the Japanese market, a Cefiro-badged station
wagon was also available. One version of the Cefiro (Brougham VIP spec) was sold in the US as the Infiniti I30, yet
the Cefiro had subtle differences including different fog light arrangements, one-piece headlights and a few assorted
Nissan Maxima 9
2000–2003
Fifth generation
Overview
Production 1999–2003
Layout FF layout
Powertrain
Dimensions
The 2000 Maxima (designated A33) was a refresh of the previous car, designed at Nissan's La Jolla, California
design studio. The engine was a 222 hp (166 kW) (227 hp SE) 3.0 L VQ30DE V6. The vehicle has a 0-60 mph time
of 6.6 seconds. This variant of the VQ30DE was referred to as the VQ30DE-K. In this variation, there were three
models (GXE, GLE, and SE). The "GXE" was the base Maxima. The GLE was the "luxury" variant and had 16 inch
wheels. This generation was used for the Infiniti I30, (JDM Nissan Cefiro). The 2001 Maxima is the special edition
of the SE model which commemorates the 20th anniversary of this particular Nissan. In addition to the usual SE
content, this car has the Infiniti I30's engine, special side skirts (ground effects) all around the lower perimeter, and a
few special touches to the interior. The last addition includes drilled metal "brushed metallic" pedals, a brushed
metallic shifter, and stainless steel door sill plates that bear the name Nissan Maxima. The optional leather is
perforated, unlike that in the regular SE. Finally, the "SE Comfort and Convenience Package" which includes a
sunroof, 17" wheels, and a few other things is standard.
This generation of Maxima also saw Nissan introduce a Bridgestone-made engine mount with sensors that
communicate with the ECM. Many transmission-like problems such as 'unable to shift into higher gears' resulted
from worn engine mounts triggering signals to prevent the vehicle gaining higher speed. This problem was not often
detected by the diagnostics conducted on the transmission and ECM as they were not the cause of the problem.
In 2002, the engine was replaced for the whole lineup with a 3.5 L
VQ35DE that produced 255 hp (190 kW) and 246 lb·ft (334 N·m)
of torque. In addition, the model got a slight refresh with a larger
grille opening, headlamps with high-intensity discharge (HID) low
beams, a six-speed manual transmission with optional helical
Torsen limited-slip differential borrowed from the Japan market
Nissan Skyline GT-R, revised 17 inch six-spoke wheels on the SE
2002-2003 Nissan Maxima GLE models, new 17 inch seven spoke wheels on the GLE models,
clear taillights, and some interior and exterior refinements over the
2000 to 2001 models. In 2003, there was a special package called the Titanium Edition with special wheels and
interior treatment, as well as a Meridian Edition package which included heated seats and steering wheel (usually
leather, although some were available with heated cloth), and a GPS navigation system. The Titanium Edition was
available in all colors, but a new color was available only with the Titanium Edition (Polished Titanium). The last
generation Maxima was the basis for the Infiniti I35. In Russia and Europe, the Maxima is being sold as Nissan
Maxima QX.
2004–2008
Sixth generation
Overview
Production 2003-2008
Nissan Maxima 11
Layout FF layout
Powertrain
Dimensions
The sixth generation Maxima, code-named A34, was only sold in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It was
introduced in production form as a 2004 model at the 2003 North American International Auto Show. In the US, it
came with the venerable VQ35DE, a DOHC V6 engine that produced 265 hp (198 kW) at 5,800 rpm, and 255 lb·ft
(346 N·m) of torque at 4,400 rpm and a standard SkyView fixed glass paneled roof that ran down the center of the
roof (from front to back) or an optional traditional style moonroof. Sixth generation Maximas were available in two
trim levels, SE and SL. The sporty SE model came standard with 18 inch alloy wheels, P245/45R18 V-rated tires,
stiffer suspension, rear spoiler, and an optional 6-speed manual transmission. The luxurious SL model came standard
with 17 inch alloy wheels, P225/55R17 H-rated tires, wood interior trim, 6-disc CD changer, Bose stereo, leather
seats, and HID headlights and optional heated front seats. The manual transmission was never offered in the SL
model and the suspension is tuned for a softer ride. For all models, the rear independent suspension returned, this
time using a multilink setup similar to the Altima.
For 2007, the U.S. Maxima became available with a standard
Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) (similar
to the CVT found in the Nissan Murano) as the only
transmission choice; a manual transmission was no longer
offered; however the CVT featured a manual mode. It
featured a freshened front fascia (lacking the center block,
the new grille closely resembled that of the 2007 Altima).
2007-2008 Nissan Maxima Headlights were also more squared around the edges. New
interior changes included an Intelligent Key system with
integrated ignition tab, new center console, and new white-and-orange gauges as opposed to the older pure orange
ones.
Nissan Maxima 12
For 2008, the Maxima's fuel economy dropped from 21MPG-City / 28MPG-Highway to 19/25 due to new EPA
measurement methods. A Platinum Edition package of convenience features was added for 2008 on both SE and SL
trim levels.
In Australia, the Maxima had the same engine, but Nissan set the maximum power to only 170 kW (228 hp). The
Australian version was code-named J31, shared the VQ engine, initially only came with a four-speed automatic
transmission, and had quite noticeable styling differences to the North American version as it was based on the
Nissan Teana. In 2007, it received a minor mid-life facelift and an all new CVT automatic transmission.
In Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Singapore, Brunei, Latin America & the Caribbean, it was sold as the Nissan Cefiro. It
was built on the standard FF-L platform of the Altima/ US Maxima combined with certain pieces of the JM Nissan
Presage design same as the Nissan Teana previously mentioned. The American Maxima was known for a balance
between sport and luxury; other models tended to focus more on comfort.
2009–Present
Seventh generation
Overview
Production 2008–present
Layout FF layout
Related Infiniti JX
Nissan Altima (L32)
Nissan Elgrand (E52)
Nissan Murano (Z51)
Nissan Pathfinder (R52)
Nissan Quest
Nissan Teana (J32)
Renault Laguna III
Renault Latitude
Renault Samsung New SM7
Renault Samsung SM5 (L43)
Powertrain
Dimensions
The Maxima was redesigned for the 2009 model year and made its debut at the 2008 New York International Auto
Show. The newest Maxima (A35) is built on the Nissan D platform sharing this platform with the fourth generation
Nissan Altima and second generation Nissan Murano. The exterior and interior design are somewhat similar to the
Infiniti G and Infiniti M, with an updated navigation interface and optional USB interface system that works with the
main console monitor and steering wheel controls. It comes equipped with a revised version of the VQ35DE engine
producing 290 hp (216 kW) and 261 lb·ft (354 N·m) of torque. A revised version of Nissan's Xtronic CVT
(Continuously variable transmission) with paddle shifting is the only transmission offered, with no manual or regular
automatic available. A diesel version was expected to be released for the 2010 model year, although those plans were
not realized. The new Maxima is offered in S and SV trims with several premium and technology packages
available. The current Maxima's design trades height and length for a sleeker styling, although the width has been
increased slightly. The keyless ignition uses a push button to start and stop the engine . In the U.S., the seventh
generation Maxima went on sale in late June 2008.
Performance:
• 0–60 mph: 5.8 sec.
• Skid Pad Lateral acceleration: 0.85 g
• 1/4 Mile: 14.5 sec. @ 99 mph (159 km/h)
• 60–0 mph: 128 feet (39 m)
2012
For 2012, Nissan has modestly freshened the Maxima's exterior, with a
new grille, taillamps and alloy wheels in 18- and 19-inch diameters.
Two new exterior colors, Java Metallic and Dark Slate, are available.
The cabin receives a few small trim changes, but is mostly carried over
from 2011. A new $710 Limited Edition package on the Maxima 3.5 S
bundles smoked xenon headlights, a compass in the rearview mirror,
18-inch dark-silver-finish alloy wheels, rear spoiler, dark satin chrome
grille, foglamps, outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and
2012 Nissan Maxima S
metallic trim.
Nissan Maxima 14
2013
The 2013 Nissan Maxima still remains the same for the most part and will be available with three new option
packages for the new model year:
•Bose Audio Package—This audio upgrade brings a nine-speaker digital sound system from Bose that boasts
SiriusXM Satellite Radio functionality (SiriusXM subscription sold separately), along with three 3.5-inch Twiddler
neodymium front speakers, two 6- x 9-inch front door woofers, two 6.5-inch wide-range neodymium rear door
speakers, and two 6- x 9-inch rear neodymium woofers.
•SV Value Package—Adding a bit more luxury into the mix, this package includes the premium Bose audio setup
along with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated outside mirrors.
•Sport Package—Here, striking 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a Dark Hyper Silver finish are added to a
climate-controlled driver’s seat that is both heated and cooled, then combined with all the content in the Maxima
Monitor Package, which showcases a rearview camera system, seven-inch color monitor, USB port and an iPod
storage net in the car’s center console.
One new exterior color, Pearl White, is offered for the new model year on Maxima.
2014
Nissan's flagship Maxima sedan enters the 2014 model year with the following enhancements:
• Addition of a new S Value Package with smoked appearance headlights, HID Xenon headlights, compass in
rearview mirror, 18-inch aluminum-alloy Dark Hyper Silver wheels, rear spoiler, fog lights, outside mirrors with
integrated turn signals and metallic trim treatment
• Previous Monitor and HID Xenon Packages no longer available
• Standard RearView Monitor, USB connectivity and 7.0-inch color monitor with QVGA display added to SV
grade
• Two new exterior colors: Gun Metallic (replaces Dark Gray) and Midnight Garnet (replaces Tuscan Sun); eight
available exterior colors total
• Offered in two models, 3.5 S and 3.5 SV, each powered by a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine
mated to an Xtronic CVT® with manual and "DS" (drive sport) modes with available paddle shifters
• Available late August 2013
References
• "Datsun 810 and Nissan Maxima" (http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/generations/articles/104713/article.
html). Edmunds.com. Retrieved March 25, 2005.
• "New photos of Nissan Maxima" (http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/18/
new-york-08-preview-2009-nissan-maxima-leaked-on-forum/).
• "2011 Nissan Maxima Specifications" (http://www.nissanusa.com/maxima).
External links
• Official Nissan Maxima Website (http://www.nissanusa.com/maxima/)
• Nissan Máxima 2004 2008 Technical Information and Guide (http://www.manualdereparacionnissan.com/
nissan-maxima-2006-2007-manual-de-reparacion-servicio-y-mantenimiento/)
Article Sources and Contributors 15
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