2008 Nissan Maxima Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2008 Nissan Maxima includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Nissan Maxima from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Nissan Maxima, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Nissan Maxima help you decide if a 2008 Nissan Maxima is right for you.

2008 Nissan Maxima Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration	Cargo room

Handling	Rear-seat entry/exit

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

SE	Class Average
6	5.6

Acceleration is strong on takeoff and from midrange speeds. Maxima's CVT seamlessly moves engine rpm to the right range and keeps it there to supply ample power at any speed.

Fuel Economy

SE	Class Average
6	5.6

In Consumer Guide testing, SE models averaged 21.1-23.1 mpg. Nissan recommends premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

SE	Class Average
6	6

Only an SE model has made available for test so far. The suspension copes well with most bumps and ruts, though it can pound over sharp bumps. Note that the SE has lower-profile tires than the SL and 18-inch wheels vs. 17s.

Steering/Handling/Braking

SE	Class Average
7	6

Steering feel is a bit light, but the Maxima is otherwise balanced, predictable, and more agile than most midsize sedans. Braking is strong and stable. Torque steer well is controlled.

Quietness

SE	Class Average
6	6

The V6 emits a constant snarl at full throttle, and a modest hum at cruising pace. Wind noise is well-tamed, but tire thrum intrudes some on coarse pavement.

Controls

SE	Class Average
6	6.3

Maxima has easily read white-on-black gauges. The audio and climate controls are large and within easy reach, but the unorthodox layout takes some acclimation.

Details

SE	Class Average
6	5.5

Interior has attractive but not posh materials, and strikes an acceptable balance of hard plastics and padded surfaces.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SE	Class Average
7	6.7

Six-footers get ample space on supportive, well-shaped seats. Taller occupants may wish for more rearward seat travel and more head clearance. The roof shape and rear-end styling are slight impediments to visibility aft and over the shoulder.

Room/Comfort (rear)

SE	Class Average
6	5.1

Two adults is the practical limit with Maxima's rear seat. The feel here is cozy, too; legroom and headroom are good, but not grand. Entry and exit are hampered by the sloping roofline and narrow floor-level passages.

Cargo Room

SE	Class Average
4	4

The trunk's opening is too small for bulky boxes, but the compact strut-type trunklid hinges don't steal space or endanger luggage. The split rear seatbacks fold for long cargo. There is ample cabin storage.

Value within Class

SE	Class Average
5	6.2

Positioned between family-oriented midsize sedans and premium sport sedans, Maxima is bested for value by such stalwarts as Honda Accord and Toyota Camry and for performance and refinement by Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti G35. Still, this Nissan is a roomy and capable midsize option.

Total Score