Nissan Maxima A36 (2016–2022): a complete guide to the flagship sedan

Nissan Maxima A36 - the eighth generation of the iconic Japanese sedan, which was produced from 2016 to 2022. This model was the last in the line Maxima, since Nissan decided to curtail its production in favor of crossovers and electric vehicles. The A36 retained its signature style with an aggressive design, a powerful V6 engine and premium interior trim, but at the same time received modern technologies and improved dynamics.

The car was positioned as a “4D Sport Car” - a combination of sporty character with the comfort of a premium sedan. In Russia Maxima A36 was not officially sold, but was actively imported from the USA and the UAE. This made it popular among fans of Japanese cars with powerful engines and non-standard design. However, the model also has its own weak points, which are worth knowing before purchasing.

Technical specifications Nissan Maxima A36

Under the hood Maxima A36 only one engine installed 3.5 liter V6 VQ35DD with direct fuel injection. This motor develops 300 hp at 6400 rpm and 353 Nm of torque. Works with him CVT Xtronic, which simulates 8 speeds for a sportier driving experience. The drive is exclusively front-wheel drive, which raises questions among fans of rear-wheel drive sedans.

Acceleration to 100 km/h takes approx. 6.1 seconds, and the maximum speed is electronically limited at 210 km/h. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 9.8–11.2 l/100 km — quite an adequate indicator for such a motor. The suspension is independent front and rear, with adaptive shock absorbers in top trim levels. The braking system includes ventilated discs on all wheels.

Parameter	Meaning
Engine	VQ35DD, 3.5 l, V6, 300 hp
Gearbox	Xtronic CVT with manual mode
Drive	Front (FWD)
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	6.1 s
Average fuel consumption	9.8–11.2 l/100 km

Feature Maxima A36 became a system Drive Mode Selector, allowing you to select one of the driving modes: Normal, Sport or Eco. In Sport mode, the CVT holds revs longer and the steering becomes sharper. The system is also available in top versions Predictive Forward Collision Warning, which analyzes the behavior of cars ahead.

Options and equipment

In the USA Nissan Maxima A36 offered in five trim levels: S, SV, SL, SR And Platinum. Basic version S already included LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control and an 8-inch touch screen with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto. However, the most interesting were the top versions.

Equipment SR focused on sporty driving: 19-inch wheels, a sports suspension, a body kit with red accents and leather seats with improved lateral support have appeared here. Version Platinum offered premium interior trim with genuine leather Ascot Leather, ventilated front seats, audio system Bose Premium with 11 speakers and surround view system Around View Monitor.

• 🔹 Basic S: LED headlights, 18" wheels, leather steering wheel, 8" screen.
• 🔹 Sports SR: 19" wheels, sports suspension, red accents in the interior.
• 🔹 Premium Platinum: ventilated seats, Bose Audio, 360° camera.
• 🔹 Options for all versions: adaptive cruise control, heated steering wheel, wireless charging.

In Russia the majority Maxima A36 imported in complete sets SV And SL, as they offered the best price-to-equipment ratio. However, it is worth considering that many cars were imported from the UAE, where climatic conditions are very different from Russian ones - this can affect the condition of the body and interior.

Weaknesses and typical problems

Despite the reliability of Japanese technology, Nissan Maxima A36 has several vulnerabilities, which are worth knowing before purchasing. The main complaints from owners are related to the CVT, electronics and suspension.

The most common problem is Xtronic variator overheating when driving aggressively or in traffic jams. This can lead to jerks when switching and reduce the life of the box. There are also cases of oil leakage from under the drive seals. One more nuance - noisy engine operation VQ35DD in the cold, especially in frosty weather. This is due to the characteristics of the injection system and is not always a sign of a malfunction.

• ⚠️ Xtronic CVT: overheating under load, jerking, oil leaks.
• ⚠️ Engine VQ35DD: noise when cold, oil consumption (after 100 thousand km).
• ⚠️ Electronics: multimedia glitches, problems with parking sensors.
• ⚠️ Suspension: rapid wear of stabilizer bushings and shock absorbers.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Maxima A36 with mileage, be sure to check the service history of the variator. The oil in the box should be changed every 60–80 thousand km, otherwise the risk of breakdown increases sharply.

Another feature - sensitivity to fuel quality. Motor VQ35DD requires at least gasoline AI-95, or better AI-98. The use of low octane fuel can lead to detonation and accelerated cylinder wear. Owners also note the fragility brake pads - they last on average for 30–40 thousand km.

What to do if the variator starts to twitch?

If jerking occurs during acceleration, check the oil level in the box. If the oil is clean and normal, the variator control unit may need to be reflashed. In severe cases, it may be necessary to replace the belt or the entire unit (cost from 300 thousand rubles).

Comparison with competitors

In my class Nissan Maxima A36 competed with such models as Toyota Avalon, Honda Accord V6, Chevrolet Impala And Kia Cadenza. By dynamics and design Maxima beat most of its competitors, but lost in reliability and cost of maintenance.

for example, Toyota Avalon offered a more comfortable suspension and a time-tested 3.5-liter V6, but looked conservative. Honda Accord V6 was cheaper to maintain, but inferior in power. Kia Cadenza lost in dynamics, but had richer equipment for the same money. Main advantage Maxima A36 - him unique design and sportiness that competitors could not offer.

Model	Power	Acceleration 0–100 km/h	Average price (2023)
Nissan Maxima A36	300 hp	6.1 s	2.8–3.5 million ₽
Toyota Avalon (2016–2022)	301 hp	6.0 s	3.0–3.8 million ₽
Honda Accord V6 (2016–2017)	278 hp	6.5 s	2.5–3.2 million ₽
Kia Cadenza (2017–2020)	290 hp	6.8 s	2.6–3.3 million ₽

If you care comfort and reliability, it is better to pay attention to Avalon or Accord. If you are looking for stylish and dynamic sedan with a bright character - Maxima A36 will be an excellent choice. However, be prepared for higher maintenance costs, especially if you buy a used car.

Secondary market prices and buying tips

On the Russian market Nissan Maxima A36 (2016–2022) can be found ranging from 2.5 to 4.0 million rubles, depending on the year, mileage and configuration. The cheapest copies are used cars from 2016–2017 80–100 thousand km, imported from the UAE. New versions (2020–2022) in top trim levels can cost up to 4.5 million rubles.

When purchasing, pay attention to the following points:

🔧 Condition of the variator (slips, jerks, oil level)

🔧 Service history (regularity of oil changes in the engine and gearbox)

🔧 Body condition (corrosion, traces of an accident, paint quality)

🔧 Operation of electronics (multimedia, sensors, cameras)

🔧 Mileage on the odometer (risk of twisting on driven cars)-->

Pay special attention checking the variator. Ask the seller to provide receipts for changing the oil in the box. If they don't, be prepared for additional maintenance costs. It is also recommended to carry out computer diagnostics for errors in the engine control unit and gearbox.

⚠️ Attention: Many Maxima A36 imported from the UAE, where the cars are used in hot climates. This may lead to accelerated wear of the interior (cracks in plastic, faded skin) and problems with the air conditioning system. Before purchasing, test the climate control at maximum settings.

Average cost of ownership Maxima A36 higher than competitors. For example, changing the oil in a variator costs 8–12 thousand rubles, and a new box belt can cost up to 50 thousand rubles. Motor spare parts VQ35DD are also not cheap, especially if you buy original ones. However, many owners note that the costs are justified by the unique nature of the machine.

Tuning and modifications

Nissan Maxima A36 is popular among tuners due to its powerful engine and sporty design. The most common modifications:

• 🔧 Chip tuning: ECU firmware to increase power up to 330–350 hp (requires installation of exhaust and intercooler).
• 🎨 External tuning: installation of body kits (for example, from Nismo), tinting, LED DRLs.
• 🔊 Audio system: replacing the standard radio with Android Auto with a large screen, installation of a subwoofer.
• 🛞 Suspension: replacing springs with stiffer ones (for example, Tein or KW), installation of spacers.

One of the most popular options is installation exhaust system Injen or Borla, which improves the sound of the engine and slightly increases power. Also, many owners change 18-inch wheels to 19- or 20-inch ones, but this can negatively affect comfort.

If you are planning serious tuning, please note that CVT Xtronic not designed for heavy loads. When increasing power by more than 20–30 hp it is recommended to strengthen the box or consider replacing it with 6-speed automatic (for example, from Infiniti Q50).

💡

Tuning Maxima A36 requires a balanced approach. Increasing power without upgrading the variator can lead to its rapid failure.

Owner reviews: pros and cons

Owners Nissan Maxima A36 note the following advantages models:

• ✅ Design: aggressive and memorable appearance that stands out from competitors.
• ✅ Dynamics: excellent acceleration and sound of the V6 engine, especially in Sport.
• ✅ Salon: high-quality materials, comfortable seats with good lateral support.
• ✅ Equipment: even in the basic configuration there are many options (rear view camera, climate control).

Among shortcomings most often mentioned:

• ❌ CVT: Doesn't like sudden starts and overheats in traffic jams.
• ❌ Fuel consumption: in the city can reach 14–16 l/100 km.
• ❌ Suspension: tough even in standard settings, does not handle Russian roads well.
• ❌ Spare parts price: original parts are more expensive than competitors (for example, Toyota).

Many owners note that Maxima A36 - this is a car not for everyone. It is suitable for those who appreciate dynamics, style and individuality, but is not ready to put up with high maintenance costs. If you want a reliable and economical sedan, it's best to consider alternatives.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Maxima A36

❓ What is the service life of the VQ35DD engine?

With proper maintenance, the engine VQ35DD able to pass 300–400 thousand km. The main thing is to change the oil regularly (every 7–10 thousand km) and use high-quality fuel. However, after 150–200 thousand km Oil consumption may occur (up to 1 l per 1000 km), which requires attention to the condition of the piston rings.

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer on a Maxima A36?

Officially Nissan Maxima A36 Not designed for towing trailers. Maximum permissible weight of towed equipment - 450 kg (for example, a small trailer for transporting bicycles). Using heavier trailers may result in overheating of the variator and accelerated wear of the transmission.

❓ What oil should I pour into the variator?

The manufacturer recommends using original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3. Replacement must be carried out every 60 thousand km (or once every 4 years). Some owners use analogues, for example, Idemitsu CVTF or Mobil CVT Fluid, but this may affect the warranty (if it is still valid).

❓ Why was the Maxima A36 not officially sold in Russia?

Nissan has decided not to supply Maxima A36 to Russia due to low demand for large sedans in this segment. The company relied on crossovers (Qashqai, X-Trail) and compact models (Almera, Sentra). In addition, high duties on imported cars made the price Maxima uncompetitive.

❓ What is the most reliable year of release of the Maxima A36?

Cars are considered the most reliable 2019–2022 years. In these versions, most of the “childhood diseases” of the variator and electronics were eliminated. Also available from 2019 SL And Platinum improved sound insulation and an updated multimedia system appeared.