2003 Nissan Maxima Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$25,439 to $28,089

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.4

avg user rating

(24 reviews)
2003 Nissan Maxima Preview summaryImage

It seems strange that Nissan is competing with itself, but the mid-size sports luxury Maxima sedan is being outsold by the larger, yet less expensive and more stylish Altima. The Maxima offers more sports-oriented features in an effort to appeal to families with parents looking for fun behind the wheel. The 2003 Maxima doesn't change much, since it got new power and features last year. Powered by a 3.5-liter, 255-hp V6 engine, it is offered in three trim levels -- GXE, SE, and GLE, with the latter being the most fully equipped. A 4-speed auto tran is standard in all but the SE, which features a 6-speed manual.

Xenon headlights, ABS brakes, Brake Assist, dual front airbags are some of the safety features in the 2003 Maxima, and this year side impact bags are standard in the GLE, while optional in all other models. Traction control is optional in both SE and GLE with the auto tran. Other options on the SE and GLE include a sunroof and navigation system. The 2003 Maximum SE, along with its side sills, 5-spoke wheels with performance tires, sports suspension, rear spoiler, and leather-wrapped wheel, gets a new Titanium Package. This adds the side airbags, chrome wheels, a compass, titanium accents, and a 6-CD changer. While the base GXE comes with cruise control, keyless entry, and full power features, including a power driver's seat, the GXE expands on this with leather seats, memory settings, power passenger seat, automatic climate control, and foglights.

The 2003 Maxima is trying its hardest to draw a more upscale customer away from the Altima. Owners love all the standard features and the xenon headlights. With a 108-inch wheelbase, the 2003 Maxima offers more leg and headroom than the Camry, and the rear seats split-fold for extra cargo room. By far the biggest attraction is the powerful engine and sporty feel. Unfortunately, drivers bemoan the wide turning radius, the need for premium gas combined with a low fuel economy, and the high price. Paint tends to chip, oxygen sensors fail early, and the Nissan customer service leaves a lot to be desired.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2003 Nissan Maxima

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User rating:
by Ronald A
Oct 22, 2021
I think its a beautiful car, with all the toys..Oct 22, 2021
by Peter W
Nov 10, 2020
i think these were some of the best Maximas built. they run forever with very little maintenace costs. Nov 10, 2020
by George W
Sep 16, 2020
The 2002 & 2003 Nissan Maxima are model years that I def would recommend. Has lots of guts and without sacrificing comfort. The only suggestion is to steer clear from the light interior as it is a MAJOR magnet for stains! The Bose radio is not the worst but it isnt the best.Sep 16, 2020

2003 Nissan Maxima Pricing

Original MSRP
$25,439 to $28,089
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
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YoY price change
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Trims & specs

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: HID

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (3)