2013 Nissan Maxima Review: Specs, Safety, and What to Expect
The 2013 Nissan Maxima arrived as the flagship sedan in Nissan’s lineup, promising a blend of sporty dynamics and upscale touches. For drivers who wanted more punch than a typical family car but didn’t crave a full‑blown sports coupe, the Maxima positioned itself as a “four‑door sports sedan.” Below we’ll break down how the car feels on the road, what the official specifications look like, and which safety tools keep occupants protected.
2013 Nissan Maxima Review: First Impressions and Design
Visually, the 2013 Maxima sheds the rounded contours of its predecessors in favor of sharper lines and a more aggressive front fascia. The V‑motion grille, flared wheel arches, and a subtle rear spoiler give the sedan a confident stance without shouting. Inside, the cabin feels surprisingly refined for a non‑luxury brand. Soft‑touch materials line the dashboard, and a leather‑trimmed steering wheel adds a premium feel.
Technology isn’t an afterthought either. A 7‑inch touchscreen sits at the centre of the center console, handling Bluetooth phone calls, a rear‑view camera, and optional navigation. The layout is intuitive, though the lack of physical knobs can be a minor distraction for some drivers.
On the road, the Maxima’s suspension strikes a middle ground between comfort and agility. The steering offers enough feedback to feel planted during cornering, yet the ride remains smooth over typical city potholes. It’s a sedan that can glide through rush‑hour traffic and still feel at home on a winding backroad.
Key Specs and Engine Details
- Engine: 3.5‑liter V6
- Power: 290 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
- Torque: 261 lb‑ft @ 4,800 rpm
- Transmission: 7‑speed automatic with manual‑shift mode
- Fuel Economy (EPA): 20 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Drive Layout: Front‑wheel drive
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,500 lbs
- Dimensions (L×W×H): 197.1″ × 73.9″ × 58.0″
- Wheelbase: 112.2″
The 3.5‑liter V6 is the heart of the Maxima’s “sporty” claim. At 290 horsepower, it comfortably propels the sedan from 0‑60 mph in just over six seconds—a respectable figure for a vehicle of its size. The seven‑speed automatic smooths out gear changes, and the optional manual‑shift mode lets enthusiasts hold a gear for a more engaging drive.
Fuel economy isn’t groundbreaking, but the 20/30 mpg rating keeps daily commuting costs reasonable. Compared with rivals like the Toyota Avalon or the Chevrolet Impala, the Maxima sits near the middle of the pack, offering a little more excitement for a comparable price.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Safety was a major selling point for the 2013 Maxima. Nissan equipped the sedan with a comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags for the driver. Anti‑lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake‑force distribution, and brake assist further enhance stopping power.
Active safety technologies were optional but worthwhile. The available Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) monitors traffic ahead and can warn the driver of an imminent impact. When paired with Intelligent Cruise Control, the system can maintain a set distance from the car in front, easing highway fatigue.
Crash test agencies gave the Maxima solid marks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded an overall five‑star rating, with four stars for front‑impact and five for side‑impact. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a “Top Safety Pick” when equipped with front‑seat side airbags and a head‑rest restraint system.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
- Pros: Strong V6 performance, upscale interior, sharp styling, solid safety scores.
- Cons: Fuel economy modest for the class, front‑wheel‑drive limits handling finesse, infotainment interface can be fiddly.
Overall, the 2013 Maxima feels like a step above the typical midsize sedan without demanding sports‑car insurance premiums. It’s a good fit for professionals who want a daily driver that still offers a thrill on the weekend.
Is the 2013 Maxima Worth Buying Used?
When hunting for a used sedan, reliability and cost of ownership are top concerns. Nissan’s V6 in the 2013 Maxima has a reputation for durability, provided routine oil changes and scheduled maintenance are observed. Common issues reported by owners include occasional CV joint wear and a few instances of power‑window motor failure, but these are relatively infrequent.
Resale values hold up reasonably well; a well‑maintained Maxima typically retains about 55‑60 % of its original price after five years. That makes it an appealing option for buyers seeking a near‑new experience without the brand‑new price tag.
FAQ
How reliable is the 2013 Nissan Maxima?
Overall reliability is solid. Major mechanical problems are uncommon, though some owners note CV joint wear after high mileage. Regular maintenance keeps the V6 running smoothly for many years.
What is the 2013 Maxima’s fuel economy compared to rivals?
At 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, the Maxima sits near the middle of its segment. It trails the more fuel‑efficient Toyota Avalon but outperforms the Chevrolet Impala’s V6 models.
Does the 2013 Maxima have all‑wheel drive?
No. The Maxima is front‑wheel drive only. Nissan offered all‑wheel drive on other models, but the Maxima’s chassis was tuned for front‑wheel dynamics.
What safety ratings did the 2013 Maxima earn?
The NHTSA gave it a five‑star overall rating, while the IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick when equipped with optional side airbags and head‑rest restraints.
