The Good
The 2018 Nissan Maxima offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort. Its strong V6 engine delivers brisk acceleration, appealing to the emotional buyer. Practical buyers will appreciate its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and decent fuel efficiency. It strikes a good balance between sporty handling and everyday usability. Reliability is generally good, adding to its value proposition.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 2018 Maxima's continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a potential weak point, requiring diligent maintenance. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system. The rear seat headroom can be limited for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline. Also, its handling isn't as sharp as some true sports sedans.
2018 Nissan Maxima: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 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 Estimated): 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
- 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 5.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim Level Features:
- S: 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and ignition, cloth upholstery, 8-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking.
- SV: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control.
- SL: Adds panoramic sunroof, Bose premium audio system, ambient interior lighting, automatic dimming rearview mirror.
- SR: Adds sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, premium leather seats with diamond-quilted inserts, aluminum pedals.
- Platinum: Adds premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, surround-view camera system, rear automatic braking, driver attention alert.
2018 Nissan Maxima Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| 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 | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission 7-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 7-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Nissan Maxima Have?
Infotainment system glitches, including screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, and Bluetooth connectivity problems, have also been reported. Some owners have noted issues with the navigation system as well. These issues are usually minor annoyances rather than major mechanical problems.
Recalls for the 2018 Maxima have addressed issues such as improperly installed rear spoilers and potential problems with the Intelligent Cruise Control system. Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information. Long-term reliability concerns mainly focus on the CVT's durability over an extended period. Paying close attention to transmission maintenance and addressing any unusual noises or behavior promptly can help mitigate potential problems.
How long will the 2018 Nissan Maxima last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking (standard), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control (available on SV and higher trims). The Platinum trim adds a surround-view camera system, rear automatic braking, and driver attention alert.
Safety is a strong point for the 2018 Maxima. It received good 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. These ratings, combined with the array of driver-assistance technologies, make the 2018 Maxima a safe and well-equipped sedan.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Nissan Maxima Prices and Market Value
2018 Nissan Maxima Cost of Ownership
2018 Nissan Maxima Fuel Efficiency
2018 Nissan Maxima Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Nissan Maxima Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
2018 Nissan Maxima Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Nissan Maxima Compare to Other Sedan?
Alternatives to consider: the Toyota Avalon offers similar comfort and reliability with a slightly less sporty driving feel. The Chrysler 300 provides bolder styling and optional V8 power. The Buick LaCrosse offers a more luxurious and comfortable ride. A Honda Accord V6 (if available) from the same year could also be an attractive option for reliability and a good balance of features. For those prioritizing long-term reliability, the Avalon is a strong alternative. For sporty driving dynamics, the Maxima holds its own, but potential buyers should be aware of the CVT's maintenance requirements.
Ranks #947 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 | (5.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 947 | 2018 Nissan Maxima | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Nissan Maxima a Good Sedan?
S Cheatham Brown on April 17, 2024
I appreciate the hard work!!!Thank you Dennis you were wonderful. You went out of your way to get me the best Finance company that was the cheapest. I greatly appreciate it. As well as a good deal on an auto insurance. Thank you for your hard work. And I will be telling a friend. S. Brown
Bay on April 7, 2024
Best car I have ever ownedI bought a 2018 Maxima SL brand new. Have owned it over 6 years. Very comfortable, fast and fun to drive. Great brakes and safety suite is excellent. Adaptive cruise control has spoiled me. Have had no issues whatsoever with this car. No repairs. Just oil changes (synthetic) and new tires in the 6 years along with air filters.
J. Ribs on August 31, 2022
Safety features beyond expectationsI was in a bad car accident with my 2018 Maxima recently. With this car's safety features, I walked away with just bruises. This car saved me!
Bay on May 8, 2022
Best car I ever ownedHave owned the 2018 Maxima SL for 4 years. Bought it new. Nicest car I ever owned. Fast, fun and comfortable. Have had no maintenance issues. Best brakes I’ve ever had and the safety suite including adaptive cruise control are excellent. The Nissan 3.5 v6 is smooth and powerful. The CVT works fine and I drive hard and fast and it has not been an issue. Bought out the lease after 3 years and never have done that before in 20 years of leasing. I have the Pearl white and black top color scheme and the cars lines are sporty. May keep guises car forever!
Thomas on April 16, 2022
Car I could keep for yearsBought my Maxima in June of last year and am very satisfied with it. Have had many compliments from family and friends about it. Like the power and acceleration. Infotainment system is easy to use. Plenty legroom and comfortable to drive. Wanted something with some horsepower and this has it.
Kim on March 4, 2022
Maxima worth every penny I had 9 altogether and brI love my maxima's I currently have SL loaded 2018 and I love it! I have owned 9 maxima that is all I drive. Very disappointing to hear they are going to discontinue making them.well I don't care what anybody says about they too pricey or comparing to other cars ... no comparison it's a luxury, sporty,family car all in one. All I have to say if people don't want to spend the money for them go buy an Altima or a camry but don't stop making the maxima . Because the people that can afford to buy them will.
Chris m on March 31, 2021
Excellent car handles well plenty of accelerationMy 2018 Maxima it’s a great touring car it has plenty of acceleration handles well and is comfortable to ride on long journeys. And all wheel drive version would be better for a treacherous New England roads.
Anewton2 on March 16, 2021
Reliable & prettyThis is a beautiful car & roomy for my 2 kids. Huge trunk. My vehicle has a lot of amenities. Duel moon roof, heated seats, steering wheel, & leather seats. Which is a must with kids. I love nissans. They are very reliable. Low maintenance is a must for me. This is my second Nissan.
GDive on March 3, 2021
Most Feature Rich Car I've Ever OwnedThis car has it all. It's comfortable. It has a powerful V6. It has a ton of features including a panoramic sun roof, Android Auto and remote start. Also has great safety features and is fun to drive.
Zermin on January 15, 2021
Maxima SL is awesome!This car is amazing. Performance is there with the 300hp under the hood. Highway miles are amazing where you can get up close to 30 miles per gallon.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.