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2016 Nissan Maxima Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.93
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2016 Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan, often dubbed a "four-door sports car" by Nissan. Part of the Maxima's eighth generation (2016-2023), it offers a more stylish and performance-oriented alternative to typical family sedans. Key trims include S, SV, SL, SR, and Platinum. When new, the pricing ranged from approximately $32,000 to $40,000. Its distinctive styling and powerful V6 engine contribute to its popularity.
The Good

The 2016 Maxima boasts strong V6 performance and a comfortable, upscale interior. Its sporty design appeals emotionally, while its reliability, decent fuel economy, and relatively affordable price offer practical value. It provides a satisfying blend of excitement and everyday usability, making it attractive to a wide range of buyers.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2016 Maxima include the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can be a source of concern for some buyers regarding long-term reliability. Rear visibility is somewhat limited due to the car's design. Some interior materials may not feel as premium as competitors. Also, check for proper function of electronic features.

2016 Nissan Maxima: Quick Overview

  • Engine: 3.5-liter V6
  • Horsepower: 300 hp @ 6,400 rpm
  • Torque: 261 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Fuel Economy (EPA est.): 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.9 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended/Rated
  • Trim Level Features:
    • S: 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth upholstery, eight-way power driver seat, NissanConnect with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker sound system.
    • SV: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert.
    • SL: Adds a panoramic sunroof, premium Bose audio system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
    • SR: Adds a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, premium leather upholstery with diamond-quilted inserts, paddle shifters, aluminum pedals.
    • Platinum: Adds premium leather upholstery, power rear sunshade, around-view monitor, driver attention alert.

2016 Nissan Maxima Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2016
Make Nissan
Model Maxima
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City OPPAMA PLANT, YOKOSUKA-SHI
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.5-L V-6
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission continuously variable transmission
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds Continuously Variable
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2016 Nissan Maxima Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2016 Nissan Maxima often center around the CVT transmission. Some owners have reported issues like shuddering, slipping, or even complete failure, sometimes requiring costly repairs or replacement. It's crucial to check the transmission fluid regularly and adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule.
There have been some recalls issued for the 2016 Maxima, including issues related to the fuel system (fuel tank deformation) and potential problems with the antilock braking system (ABS). Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information and ensure any applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the CVT. While Nissan has made improvements to its CVT technology over the years, it remains a point of apprehension for some buyers. Other potential issues can include electrical glitches and premature wear of suspension components. Regular maintenance and careful driving habits can help mitigate some of these risks.

How long will the 2016 Nissan Maxima last?

With good maintenance habits, a 2016 Nissan Maxima can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 10-15 years of service. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes (particularly important for CVT models), and timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires are crucial.
Long-term durability hinges on the CVT's reliability. Addressing potential transmission issues early can significantly extend the vehicle's lifespan. Watch for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters and salted roads. Other weaknesses might include wear and tear on interior components and potential electrical problems as the car ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
MO
Brought home our 2016 Nissan Maxima yesterday. The car is beautiful, inside and out. When you get into it, the quality is clear. Feels luxurious, well made, solid and comfortable. It's fun to drive. This car has all the bells and whistles. The V6 is powerful and sounds great. Great responsive steering and control. Navigation took a little getting used to but works very well. Bose sound system is fantastic. Premium leather stitched seats add a lot of style. Only issue is no Android auto, might modify later. I'm very happy with my purchase.
Creta
Fantastic car that is my daily commuter. It's easy going, low cost maintenance up keep. Fun to drive around. They are a stylish car with many nice things about it. Luxurious interior, full of features that look nice. Bose surround sound speakers. Cd, Dvd player. Full parking view camera. Good on fuel economy mileage. These car's have a strong reliable engine. Good value reputation.
Wesson
Good experience owning this car. It's a nice car that has a good reputation. They are affordable, low cost maintenance. These cars are fun to drive. Decent fuel mileage in town, hwy is better. They have many nice features about them. Luxurious interior, soft leather seats. Touch screen stereo with bose surround sound speakers. Cd, Dvd player. Navigation, plus much more. I'm actually having fun with this car. They are reliable, and the value is good.
Negative Owner Reviews
Trenton
Sold this car with in a year of ownership. The ride quality sucks. The fuel mileage is not good. I, was feeling worried about the V6 engine with transmission combined. To much heat from under the hood. High cost for repairs at the service department. Drivers seat extend cushion was annoying. Tan color interior with black didn't look right. Stereo, Cd is nice. Bose speakers are under powered and no subwoofer. Sounding quality is terrible. The car felt to big, plus long looking. Same body length as a ford F-150 truck. Just a bulky car. No more production

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2016 Nissan Maxima boasts a range of tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard tech includes NissanConnect with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth, rearview camera, and USB port. Higher trims add features like a premium Bose audio system, Apple CarPlay (later model years), and Android Auto (later model years).

Driver-assistance features include available adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Platinum trim offers an around-view monitor for enhanced parking assistance. Optional features included a power rear sunshade and driver attention alert.

Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. The 2016 Nissan Maxima received strong crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with optional front crash prevention.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Deep Blue Pearl
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Gun Metallic
Super Black
Coulis Red
Forged Bronze Metallic
Pearl White
Interior Colors
Cashmere
Charcoal
Camel

2016 Nissan Maxima Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2016 Nissan Maxima ranged from roughly $32,000 to $40,000 depending on the trim level. Current used market prices typically range from $12,000 to $20,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim. The Maxima has depreciated significantly, as expected for a non-luxury sedan.
Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of desirable features (like leather seats or advanced safety tech). A well-maintained Maxima with a clean title will command a higher price. The CVT's perceived reliability can negatively impact resale value.

2016 Nissan Maxima Cost of Ownership

The 2016 Nissan Maxima is moderately costly to own. Insurance costs are typical for its class. Fuel costs are reasonable, given its V6 engine. Maintenance is generally affordable, but potential CVT repairs can be expensive. Regular maintenance, as recommended, helps avoid larger problems. Repair costs can be higher than average, especially if specialized parts are needed. Considering all factors, it is not the most economical but neither overly expensive compared to similar vehicles.

2016 Nissan Maxima Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage 22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 30 miles/gallon

2016 Nissan Maxima Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2016 Nissan Maxima Insurance

Insurance for a 2016 Nissan Maxima is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2016 Nissan Maxima Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2016 Nissan Maxima competes with vehicles like the Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, and Buick LaCrosse. The Maxima offers a sportier driving experience than the Avalon, but the Avalon generally boasts superior reliability. The Chrysler 300 provides a more spacious interior and available V8 engine, while the Maxima has a more modern design. The Buick LaCrosse focuses on comfort and luxury.

In terms of features, the Maxima is competitive, offering a good balance of standard and optional equipment. Price-wise, it's similar to its rivals.

Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Avalon for its reliability and the Acura TLX (if looking for a more luxurious and potentially reliable alternative). The Kia Cadenza (later K900) also provides compelling value. If reliability is a primary concern, the Avalon would be a better choice. If a sportier driving experience is preferred, the Maxima holds its own.

Ranks #1008 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1008 2016 Nissan Maxima (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Nissan Maxima a Good Sedan?

The 2016 Nissan Maxima is ideal for buyers seeking a stylish and sporty full-size sedan with a powerful V6 engine. It's worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, if you prioritize design and performance over ultimate reliability. However, factor in the potential for CVT-related expenses.

Consider a used Maxima if it has a well-documented maintenance history and has undergone thorough inspection, particularly of the transmission. The SL or Platinum trims offer a good balance of features and value. If reliability is a top concern, explore alternatives like the Toyota Avalon. Be prepared to set aside funds for potential repairs, especially related to the CVT.

2016 Nissan Maxima Owner Reviews

4.93
Overall rating
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MO on August 18, 2024

Brought home our 2016 Nissan Maxima yesterday.

Brought home our 2016 Nissan Maxima yesterday. The car is beautiful, inside and out. When you get into it, the quality is clear. Feels luxurious, well made, solid and comfortable. It's fun to drive. This car has all the bells and whistles. The V6 is powerful and sounds great. Great responsive steering and control. Navigation took a little getting used to but works very well. Bose sound system is fantastic. Premium leather stitched seats add a lot of style. Only issue is no Android auto, might modify later. I'm very happy with my purchase.

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Trenton on August 11, 2023

Worthless, Not a fun car after awhile

Sold this car with in a year of ownership. The ride quality sucks. The fuel mileage is not good. I, was feeling worried about the V6 engine with transmission combined. To much heat from under the hood. High cost for repairs at the service department. Drivers seat extend cushion was annoying. Tan color interior with black didn't look right. Stereo, Cd is nice. Bose speakers are under powered and no subwoofer. Sounding quality is terrible. The car felt to big, plus long looking. Same body length as a ford F-150 truck. Just a bulky car. No more production

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Nathan on July 31, 2023

Not worth buying

I, had this car for about 7 months until I traded it in for a economy fuel mileage car. Premium gas is expensive. This was fun to drive, but on the other hand, it's a big full size sedan. Just to bulky, and terrible fuel mileage for city use. Hwy fuel mileage was around 30. Plus nissan stopped making these cars 2023. End of the line gas cars. These cars do not pass the EPA fuel economy. So, walk away from these maxima vehicles. Value of them are going down fast!!!

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Creta on July 6, 2023

Wonderful 🙂

Fantastic car that is my daily commuter. It's easy going, low cost maintenance up keep. Fun to drive around. They are a stylish car with many nice things about it. Luxurious interior, full of features that look nice. Bose surround sound speakers. Cd, Dvd player. Full parking view camera. Good on fuel economy mileage. These car's have a strong reliable engine. Good value reputation.

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Wesson on July 5, 2023

Maxima is strong, reliable fun to drive

Good experience owning this car. It's a nice car that has a good reputation. They are affordable, low cost maintenance. These cars are fun to drive. Decent fuel mileage in town, hwy is better. They have many nice features about them. Luxurious interior, soft leather seats. Touch screen stereo with bose surround sound speakers. Cd, Dvd player. Navigation, plus much more. I'm actually having fun with this car. They are reliable, and the value is good.

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Nina on June 30, 2023

Platinum Highest Trim

Well deserved all five stars!! Very nice reliable car's. They have a good reputation, strong reliability. Overall it's sporty, mixed with luxury. Performance V6, 300 horsepower. Very impressive for being a sports sedan. Interior design is interesting. Soft leather seats, both are powered. Touch screen stereo, cd , dvd player. Full body view camera. Sport tech button for the performance adjustment. Decent fuel mileage, this car is fun to drive.

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Senna on June 16, 2023

Very nice quality, Reliable, Styling, Value holds

All performance v-6 plus luxurious interior. Very nice quality cars that are affordable. They are just fantastic, they are fun to drive. Good on fuel mileage for being a sports sedan. These cars do have comfortable seats, both are powered. Bose speakers, cd player, navigation. Very nice parking 360 degree camera. So many nice things going on about these maxima cars.

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Malic on June 11, 2023

Reliable, Styling, Quality, Comfort

Very nice quality cars. They are reliable, low cost maintenance. Good on fuel mileage, and they are quick. The interior is luxurious, very nice quality leather. Bose speakers, navigation plus a cd player. Really dependable fun car to drive.

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Janel on June 2, 2023

Safety technology, Full luxurious cars 🙂

Top best sedans that are built well. They are affordable, strong reliability. Good on fuel mileage. Luxury interior, Bose stereo with a cd player. Full parking camera, with complete safety technology system these cars have. Fun to drive around in style. Nice size sedan that holds it's value reputation.

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Sandy on May 22, 2023

Reliable, Styling Vehicle's

Strong reputation and they are very reliable. Performance V6 that is actually quick. This car has also a nice suspension. Very smooth ride, handling is strong. Nice body style design. Interior is all luxurious. Comfortable seats, both powered and heated. I'm been happy with my maxima. It's just a keeper, well worth the value.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.