Nissan Maxima is the brand’s flagship sedan, which combines sporty design, premium trim and advanced technology. The interior of this car has always been one of the key features that attract buyers. But is it really that good in practice? In this review we will look at materials, ergonomics, multimedia system and other interior details Maxima 8th generation (2016–2026), and also compare it with its main competitors.

Many owners praise the interior for its spaciousness and comfort, but there are also criticisms - for example, about the quality of plastic or the location of buttons. We analyzed real reviews, technical characteristics and even nuances that are not written about in official brochures. If you choose between Maxima, Toyota Avalon or Chevrolet Impala, this material will help you make an informed choice.

Interior design and ergonomics: convenience or style?

Interior Nissan Maxima made in the signature “Gliding Wing” style - with smooth lines imitating wings and an emphasis on the driver. The center console is turned slightly towards the driver's seat, which creates a “cockpit” feeling. However, this solution is not to everyone's liking: it may be difficult for a front-seat passenger to reach the climate control or multimedia controls.

Key design elements:

  • 🎨 Color schemes: classic black, beige (Cashmere), two-tone black and red (Sport Package). The last option looks aggressive, but is easily soiled.
  • 🔄 Asymmetrical console: The climate control and media system buttons are located at an angle towards the driver. It's stylish, but takes some getting used to.
  • 💺 Seats: in top trim levels - with memory settings, ventilation and heating. However, lateral support is rather weak for a sports sedan.

One of the most controversial points is steering wheel. It's flat underneath (in the style of sports models), but its diameter (370 mm) seems too large for a compact saloon. In addition, the audio system control buttons are located unintuitively - they can easily be confused with the cruise control buttons.

⚠️ Attention: In basic configurations Maxima (S and SV) the steering wheel is covered with leatherette, not genuine leather. This is noticeable after several years of use - the material begins to “stick” in the heat.
📊 Which salon style is closer to you?
  • Sports (black+red inserts)
  • Classic (beige)
  • Minimalistic (all black)
  • Another option

Finishing materials: premium or “premium”?

Nissan positions Maxima like a premium car, but in terms of quality of materials it is inferior Lexus ES or Audi A6. However, the interior is decently designed for its price segment. Let's look at the key elements:

Salon element Material Quality rating (1–5) Typical problems
Instrument panel Soft plastic + leather insert 4 Gaps appear over time
Center console Hard plastic with glossy inserts 3 Scratches and collects dust
Seats (base) Leatherette Premium Cloth 3 Wear out after 3–4 years
Seats (top) Genuine leather Semi-Aniline 5 Requires care (leather conditioner)
Door cards Plastic + fabric insert 4 Creaks at low temperatures

An important nuance: leather is used in the SL and Platinum trim levels Semi-Aniline with perforation, which “breathes” better than usual, but requires regular cleaning from dust. Owners complain that light options (beige, gray) quickly get dirty, especially if children or pets ride in the car.

Glossy inserts on the center console look stylish, but practically useless — they reflect sunlight and collect fingerprints. Many people cover them with matte film after purchase.

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To avoid plastic squeaks in winter, treat the joints of the door panels with silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist). This will eliminate unpleasant sounds for 6-12 months.

Multimedia system: NissanConnect in practice

B Maxima 2016–2026 system installed NissanConnect with an 8-inch touch screen (in top versions - 9 inches). On paper this sounds good, but in practice there are nuances:

  • 📱 Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support: Yes, but only from 2020. Models 2016–2019 require a firmware upgrade (not officially supported).
  • 🔊 Audio system: in the base - 6 speakers, in SL/Platinum - Bose Premium with 11 speakers. The latter sounds great, but adjusting the equalizer is inconvenient.
  • 🚗 Navigation: maps become outdated quickly, updates are paid (~$150 per year). Many owners use Google Maps through Android Auto.

The main complaint about the system is slow response screen. This is especially noticeable when scrolling through a list of tracks or working with navigation. Users also note that voice commands are poorly recognized (for example, when searching for an address).

Another minus - location of USB ports. They are hidden at the bottom of the center console, and if you have a long cable, it will interfere with gear shifting.

⚠️ Attention: In the 2016–2018 models, there was a bug with overheating of the multimedia unit, due to which the system could “freeze” in hot weather. The problem can be solved by updating the firmware at the dealer.

Try connecting your phone via Bluetooth (it should work the first time)

Make sure the screen responds to touch without delay

Check the sound at maximum volume (there should be no wheezing)

Start navigation and see if the map is slow-->

Space and comfort: how much space is there really?

By size Maxima (length 4.9 m, wheelbase 2.8 m) inferior Toyota Avalon, but the salon is organized rationally. The front seats are adjustable in 8 directions (10 in the top), and the rear row offers reasonable legroom (94 cm). However, there are several pitfalls:

Front row:

  • ✅ High seating (like in a crossover) - comfortable for people with back problems.
  • ❌ The armrest is too narrow and is not height adjustable.
  • ❌ In versions without a sunroof, the ceiling seems “pressing” (interior height is 1.13 m).

Back row:

  • ✅ Heated seats (optional in SL/Platinum).
  • ❌ The backrest is not adjustable according to the angle of inclination.
  • ❌ The central tunnel is high - it’s uncomfortable for three of us to sit.

The trunk volume is 434 liters, which is 20–30 liters less than competitors. However, the shape of the boot is practical: there is no high threshold, and the rear seats fold 60/40 (but not a completely flat floor).

How to increase trunk space?

If you need to transport long cargo (for example, skis), remove the plug between the back of the rear seat and the trunk. There is a hidden opening that adds ~30 cm to the length. However, be careful: if you brake hard, the load can damage the trim.

Typical interior problems: what to look for when buying?

Even premium cars have "diseases" and Maxima no exception. Here's what most often worries owners:

  1. Plastic creaks. Especially noticeable in cold weather or after washing. The most common squeaks are:
    • 🚪 Door cards in the speaker area.
    • 🪑 Armrest between the front seats.
    • 📻 Upper part of the dashboard (near the windshield).
  2. Leather trim wear. In 2016–2018 models, the leather on the steering wheel and gearshift lever wears off faster than usual. The reason is poor quality dye.
  3. Electrical problems. Frequent complaints about:
    • 🔋 Independent activation of seat heating.
    • 🎵 Speaker failure Bose (usually the rear ones).
    • 🔦 Flickering dashboard lights.

Another common problem is fogging of windows in rainy weather. This is due to poor interior ventilation and small gaps in the door seals. Many people solve the problem by installing an additional fan or treating the glass with an anti-fog agent.

⚠️ Attention: If upon inspection of a used Maxima you notice that the buttons on the steering wheel or climate control are illuminated unevenly, this is a sign of oxidation of the contacts. Repairs will cost $200–$400.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

Main rivals Nissan Maxima — Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala And Kia Cadenza. Let's compare them based on key interior parameters:

Parameter Nissan Maxima Toyota Avalon Chevrolet Impala Kia Cadenza
Quality of materials 4/5 5/5 3/5 4/5
Ergonomics 4/5 (inconvenient console) 5/5 4/5 5/5
Multimedia 3/5 (slow) 4/5 3/5 5/5 (best screen)
Rear space 4/5 5/5 4/5 4/5
Price (used, 2020) $22 000–$28 000 $25 000–$32 000 $18 000–$24 000 $20 000–$26 000

Maxima wins against Impala in design and dynamics, but loses Avalon in reliability and Cadenza - in equipment. If it's important to you premium comfort, better take a closer look Toyota. If needed sporty character — Maxima included SR with a 300-horsepower engine will be the optimal choice.

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Nissan Maxima is suitable for those who value bright design and dynamics, but are not ready to pay for a real premium. For family trips, it is better to consider the Toyota Avalon or Kia Cadenza.

How to improve the interior of a Nissan Maxima: life hacks from owners

Many owners modify the interior Maximato make it more convenient. Here are some proven solutions:

  • 🔧 Replacing plastic with carbon. Glossy inserts on the console can be covered with matte carbon fiber (for example, film 3M DI-NOC). This eliminates glare and adds sportiness.
  • 🎧 Audio system upgrade. In basic versions, the speakers are weak. Many people install component acoustics Focal or Morel, keeping the head unit NissanConnect.
  • 🪑 Additional accessories. Popular:
    • Foot lighting LED (connects to dimensions).
    • Wireless phone charger (installed instead of a cup holder).
    • Rugs WeatherTech (exact pattern for Maxima).

If you are annoyed by slow work NissanConnect, can be installed android car radio (For example, Pioneer AVH-X590BS) while maintaining the standard buttons on the steering wheel. This requires an adapter Metra 99-7618 (~$50).

To improve sound insulation, many people cover doors and arches. SPLEN or Bimastom. This reduces noise levels by 20-30% and makes the cabin quieter on the highway.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Maxima interior

Is it possible in Maxima install a sunroof? It was not officially proposed.

Yes, but it's difficult. You will need:

  1. Cut a hole in the roof (risk of corrosion).
  2. Install the hatch from Nissan Altima (fits in size).
  3. Lay the wiring and connect to the control unit.

The cost of the work starts from $1,500. You will lose the warranty on the body.

How do I disable automatic seat heating?

This feature is system related Intelligent Climate Control. To disable:

  1. Start the car.
  2. Press and hold the heated seat button for 10 seconds.
  3. The message appears on the display OFF.

If this does not work, a flashing of the climate control unit is required.

What oil should I use to care for leather seats?

For skin Semi-Aniline in Maxima fit:

  • Leather Honey (for deep hydration).
  • Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner (for cleaning).
  • 303 Aerospace Protectant (UV protection).

Do not use silicone-based products - they damage the structure of the skin.

Why in the salon Maxima does it smell like gasoline?

This is a common problem with 2016-2018 models. Reasons:

  • Leaky fuel tank (vent valve needs to be replaced).
  • Leaking fuel filter (located under the rear seat).
  • Poor sealing of the cabin filter.

Contact your dealer immediately - the smell of gasoline in the cabin is a fire hazard!

Is it possible in Maxima install a surround view camera?

Yes, but only in configurations SL And Platinum (there are already front and rear cameras there). For basic versions you will need:

  • Buy a set of cameras (for example, Boyo VTL375).
  • Install additional cameras in bumpers and mirrors.
  • Connect to the multimedia system via an adapter.

The cost of work is from $800.