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2012 Nissan Maxima Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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With a bit of a refresh, Nissan’s 4-door flagship enters 2012 with a redesigned front fascia, some new interior treatments, new wheels and extra color options. Despite this, buyers will see no price increases over the 2011 Maxima, making these small changes all the more attractive. This FWD midsize comes in two trim designations – 3.5 S and SV, both powered by a 290-hp, 3.5-liter V6 with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and optional paddle shifters.
Starting at the front, a new fascia includes a redesigned grille and headlamps, matched by similar changes in the rear. 18- and 19-inch alloys are new as well, and buyers now have the option of Java Metallic and Dark Slate for exterior paint.
Inside, there’s a new audio display as well as new audio and climate control knobs. New trims show up as well – a dark piano hairline and Atlantic cherry wood tone to complement the new beige interior color. A sharp eye will also notice that white is the new illumination color for the gauge clusters as well. Otherwise, the Maxima is a physical carryover.
A new Limited Package can further augment your Maxima with HID xenon headlights behind smoked covers sitting above fog lamps, Dark Hyper Silver 18-inch alloys, a rear spoiler, turn signal side mirrors and a dark satin chrome grille. Inside changes include illuminated kick plates, metallic trim and a compass added to the rearview.
But without the option package, the base 3.5 S trim comes standard with 4-wheel antilock discs, traction and stability control, a leather-wrapped, multi-function tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power front bucket seats, a power sunroof, Bluetooth, 6-CD/MP3 changer, keyless access and start and automatic headlights. The SV further adds leather upholstery, a Bose stereo with satellite radio, fog lights and mirror-mounted turn signals.
The SV has several options packages available, capable of upping the sport, luxury or technology as you see fit. A Premium Package will add features like upgraded leather, a heated and cooled driver’s seat, power steering wheel with paddle shifters, a memory system and rear bucket seats, rear-view camera, USB, hard drive, 2-panel sunroof, heated power mirrors and unique interior trim.
If sport satiates, there’s a package for you as well. A power steering wheel with paddle shifters will help you make the most of a sport suspension, rear spoiler and 19-inch alloys, and Nissan has upgraded the leather for the front and rear bucket seats as well. You’ll get heat up front and for the power mirrors, a memory system, xenon headlights and metallic interior trim.
Small changes for the Maxima in 2012, but with no monetary penalty to you. That’s always a good thing, especially from a car that’s been so successful already. The Maxima offers luxury, sport or a combination of the two as per your preference, and a price that stays the same is always the preference.
Published May 31, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2012 Nissan Maxima
Write a reviewUser rating:
by pernell G
Oct 23, 2024
The car is perfect, I would change a thing about it.Oct 23, 2024
by ADJr 2
Aug 09, 2023
Very good car lasts a long time with good horsepowerAug 09, 2023
by MICHAEL M
Jun 11, 2023
Ok, I have always liked the Nissan Maxima’s looks.
The leather interior is awesome and well done.
Power everything. And the sunroof/moonroof.
Oh yeah, the paddle shifters are not only cool looking, but functional. With the attitude stance from any angle, looks like it’s ready to move.
And I think, more affordable than the premium version from Infinity.
It is a driver’s car. And now, I have one.Jun 11, 2023
User rating:
by pernell G
Oct 23, 2024
The car is perfect, I would change a thing about it.Oct 23, 2024
by ADJr 2
Aug 09, 2023
Very good car lasts a long time with good horsepowerAug 09, 2023
by MICHAEL M
Jun 11, 2023
Ok, I have always liked the Nissan Maxima’s looks.
The leather interior is awesome and well done.
Power everything. And the sunroof/moonroof.
Oh yeah, the paddle shifters are not only cool looking, but functional. With the attitude stance from any angle, looks like it’s ready to move.
And I think, more affordable than the premium version from Infinity.
It is a driver’s car. And now, I have one.Jun 11, 2023
by Anthony M
May 22, 2023
Seems to be Ive owned quite a few Nissan good carsMay 22, 2023
by Hope S
Mar 02, 2023
Fast comfy beautiful
This car is a sports car disguised as a sedan. Super nice and fun to drive. Mar 02, 2023
by Frank R
Oct 21, 2022
It was a very nice vehicle, price was reasonable, just not the right carOct 21, 2022
by Justin M
Aug 30, 2022
This car has everything somebody needs its a fair price clean in and out what is the car missing its missing a driverAug 30, 2022
by Corey C
Jul 13, 2022
Paint doesn’t match, says no accidents but clearly body work was doneJul 13, 2022
by Chantale C
Jul 08, 2022
The features on this model car is good. The value of this particular is not good because it has several problems and some work was done to the interior upholstery that was cheap work and does not have its original front bumper. So after getting this car inspected I’m definitely not pleased with my purchase and asked for my money back. But was told that they will
have everything fixed that was giving problems. I guess you can compare this model to the Toyota Camry Jul 08, 2022
by Anonymous
Apr 23, 2022
Overpriced a lot of repairs needs to be done and not worth 10 grand more or less light for Seven GrandApr 23, 2022
by Andrew L
Jan 20, 2022
Car had to many mechanical issues and not worth buying at any cost Jan 20, 2022
by Anthony W
Dec 30, 2021
I think the features were real sporty. The value is good for that model year. The car doesnt have the flap on the trunk. I compare it to the 2012 Mercedes Benz.Dec 30, 2021
by David B
Dec 25, 2021
I think its a awesome car. Looks to be a very good fit for meDec 25, 2021
by Kenneth R
Sep 29, 2021
Dream car just cant afford it right now lost my car during hurricane Sally last year just on my wish listSep 29, 2021
by Humberto r
Jun 04, 2021
Es un buen auto tiene características muy importantes y el precio está un poco alto, pero me gusta mucho y lo compararía con el acord Honda!Jun 04, 2021
by Mike H
Mar 15, 2021
Drove well handled like a true sportsman of excellence Mar 15, 2021
by Anonymous
Feb 21, 2021
The car is a great value I think I made a great choice Im loving the car for used car it was kept in very good conditionFeb 21, 2021
by Anonymous
Jan 29, 2021
Amazing
Great value
Missing navigation
Mini pathfinder minus the navigation Jan 29, 2021
by Marilyn A
Dec 09, 2020
Great...all cars that are listed are great reasonably priced Dec 09, 2020
by Anonymous
Nov 27, 2020
Good engine but the body was banged up more than expected. Suspension issues too. Didnt purchase.Nov 27, 2020
by Tom p
Sep 02, 2020
Car is missing nothing great features and 290 horse power. Sep 02, 2020
by Marco P
Aug 25, 2020
Reverse was going bad on transmission it wasnt the same exact car as in the picture in personAug 25, 2020
by Jarrod S
Jun 12, 2020
This is a great car smooth ride great condition beautiful priceJun 12, 2020
by Steve R
May 24, 2020
Great test drive with good handling and speed,way to go Nissan May 24, 2020
by Anonymous
Feb 27, 2020
Its a comfortable ,luxurious car for both drivers and passenger. Plenty of leg room ,we are a tall family 65 and under, everyone rides comfortable in front seats or back, plus has two seat setting memories when we switch drivers, lots of trunk room too. I especially enjoy the dual Sun / Moon roof and surprised to find it has an automatic sun screen for the back window. Lots of extras for the price.Feb 27, 2020
by Richard J
Aug 10, 2014
I like the car but have some desires that haven't been met. This particular model holds 130mph for long distances with no problem (rarely drive this way but had to see). For some reason, I have never had better gas mileage than 23.5. Driving this car for business purposes makes you try to be more conservative day by day and with gas prices the way they are, I might as well be in my old 2003 Dodge 2500 diesel.Aug 10, 2014
by Peter G
May 16, 2014
This car is one of the best affordable sedans. Very fast and handles like a sports car. the pick up is insane. The interior is very welcoming and the exterior is sleek with a unique design. I recommend this car over a camry or and accord.May 16, 2014
by Rigo G
Dec 27, 2013
I bought my 2011 Maxima in March 2013 and have to say that I absolutely love it. I owned a 2004 Maxima before trading it in for the new one. I am impressed with much and disappointed in very little which is how I feel it should be when purchasing a car. It's just like a person--you will never find the perfect woman or man. The trick is to find someone who has flaws that you can live with. When I first saw the 2009 Maxima, I was in love. The styling was definitely was not a cloned version of anything like the many Toyota, Honda, and Fords I remember. I told myself I was going to get one when the time came. That opportunity presented itself in March of 2013 and after 6 months of trying to find all the right features, the time came at last to purchase.
The first that you notice upon walking up to the vehicle is the styling. Coke bottle shape, big wheels, wrap around head and tail lights and a sleek and aggressive looking front grille. It was calling my name and I attest that I had to wipe the drool from one side of my mouth. It was just a solid and sexy vehicle. The Maxima, being the flagship of Nissan, is known for its speed and handling and being a previous owner I knew that this was going to be the same. Test driving it really sold me because it really was fast (290HP) and it handled well. The first vehicle I drove was the sport model which drove like my old Maxima but the model I ended up buying was the Premium SV and thought the handling was good it had some roll when cornerning. One that thing that I didn't and still don't like is the initial take off of the vehicle due to the CVT. Nissan attributes this to allowing for better gas mileage but I just think that they were trying to hold back on the power for some reason. After the car gets past 20MPH, there is no stopping it and it just eats the asphalt! It's different from my old Maxima which had a 5-speed automatic transmission because it took off like a jet! Nonetheless, this issue is small and though I don't like it, I deal with it because other things overshadow it; things like the quality. When you actually open and close the door, the sound that is makes is not hollow and clicky, it's a pronounced, hearty, and deep sound. That may be trivial to you but I rather enjoy it even when slamming the door. As you finally sit in the car and take everything in, the leather hugs you, the seat brings you to the steering wheel as it drops for you to take hold of it. The leather appointments are great in addition to the instrumentation cluster, center console, color screen, and the look of the interior. My Maxima is equipped with the RearView camera, BOSE sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and A/V outs. I am an audiophile and had to get the BOSE system. It sounds amazing and particularly in the Maxima they use what is called "Imaging" to present the music. Instead of all the speakers playing the highs, mids, and lows, the three speakers in the dash provide the robust highs and mids while the door speakers provide mids and lows, and the rear speakers provide strong lows and bass. I actually like this setup because when you are watching a musical or an opera, the voices are coming from the front of you and it simulates this type of performance. I do like the Bluetooth sound and clarity and the ease of setup though I wish wireless audio streaming was available on my package (you have to get the tech package in order to have that). I totally dislike, however, the fact that you can only plug up an Apple device to the USB port in order for it to play music. I do have an iPhone but I have no songs on it because I use my Android device for that. You can connect a micro USB cable to that port and connect your Android device but nothing will play. You have to use the included A/V jacks in order to play non-Apple devices. Once again that is small, but it's still a gripe. The good thing about the Apple jack is it's integrated into the system and will display the track names and can be controlled by the stereo and steering wheel controls. My older Maxima had a mute button that you could press to pause a CD and mute the radio but in this Maxima that is non-existent and I really liked that feature.
The car can comfortably fit 5 people though in the Premium package it's setup for 4 individuals as the seats in the rear mirror the seats in the front. The leather is taut but not uncomfortable. The heat and ventilation in the driver seat is great however I wish it extended higher toward the shoulder area. The heated steering wheel gets really warm and I love that.
The key FOB is cool in the fact that if you press and hold the unlock button all four windows will go down (this is great if it's summer and you are walking to the door). In addition, the Maxima is "remote start ready" thus you can get this added at the dealership or a good auto shop and you would hit the lock button three times to start the car (I'm planning on getting this done.)
The panoramic moonroof is absolutely amazing. It brings so much light into the car and really opens it up. It looks really good as well when you are cruising and I find it's not as hot in the summer because of the whole roof being black. It's more of an aesthetic thing for me but it definitely has its perks. That leads me to the wheels. The standard wheels are 18" but the looks of them is what makes me gripe. I don't too much like them because they look too much like value wheels instead of sporty wheels. The 19" wheels are available on the sports package and I plan to swap my wheels out for those soon.
The car is heavy enough and solidly built to provide comfort, peace of mind, and safety and you never feel like you're in a hollow shell with loose bolts. The car is definitely reliable and it has not been in the shop yet. I would recommend using premium gas as I do and synthetic oil if you are a mile hog like I am. I love that their is no timing belt! If you truly want entry level luxury, fast speeds, a sexy interior, good handling, good gas mileage, and tons of looks then this is the car for you. It's fun to drive and it just looks so damn sexy. I hear big things are coming for the 2015 Maxima and I can only say that the newest model will only add to the repertoire and reputation of the only 4DSC (Four Door Sports Car).Dec 27, 2013
by Anonymous
Jan 25, 2013
It's a lot of car for the money with tons of extras including XM satellite radio with NavTraffic and NavWeather. Dual panel moonroof w/power sunshade is my favorite. A great family sedan with style, performance, and reliability. A must see...Jan 25, 2013
by ANTHONY D
Jul 11, 2012
I should have purchased an Infinity! My payments are $700/month with Nissan 1.9% for 60 months. This is way too expensive from a slightly above average car.
You can definitely find something for alot less, or buy an Infinity or Lexus!
+++++JULY 2013 - The steering is still my biggest issues. My wrists get tired of having to keep hold of the steering wheel.
70 MPH on interstate on cruise control ranges between 26 and 28 - that is great!Jul 11, 2012
What users have asked
Head gasket in a bottle
So I have a 2012 Nissan maxima and I have a blown or Bad head gasket & I used that blue devil head gasket in a bottle stuff & I never started my car. My car won't start and my oil is like chunky I drained the oil and replaced it and my car still won't Start. What do I do?
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Alternator for maxima
What car is compatible with a 2012 Nissan maxima i need a alternator
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Mass air flow sensor
My check engine light came on and it was reading the code for the mass air flow sensor so I replaced it it was fine for a little while then the check engine light came on again for the same code at the same time when I start uphill or have to give a lot of gas the traction sensor light pops on and sometimes when I go to give it gas it hesitate or Boggs especially when the RPM goes over 2000. Could it possibly be that the throttle body is dirty? Or air leak? Or does the computer have to be reset?
83 views
2012 Nissan Maxima Won't Start
A couple of months ago my Nissan Maxima wouldn't start. I came out of Walmart & unlocked my car with the fob like normal. I pushed the button to start & it wouldn't do anything. It wouldn't even switch over to the ON position. We replaced the car & fob battery at Walmart & it still didn't start. The lights & door chimes came on as normal but the horn, windows, & radio won't work. I've tried literally everything from "knocking" on the steering mechanism to trying the alternate start method with the fob. It's been almost 2 months & it's killing me not to have a car. I can't afford to take it to the dealership so this forum is honestly my last resort. Thanks in advance
843 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2012 Nissan Maxima?Compare this car
2012 Nissan Maxima Pricing
Original MSRP
$32,420 to $35,120Price range
$7,002 to $7,737Average price on CG
$7,074YoY price change
$7,577 to $7,074Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Auxiliary audio input: jack · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 8
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.1 · Rear brake width: .63 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Door sill trim: illuminated scuff plate · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: rear · Center console: dual level · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 5.17
Engine
Alternator: 130 amps · Battery: 550 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear spoiler color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: sliding sunshade
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front · Impact sensor: alert system
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front and rear · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.2 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.6
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 25 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 21 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Telematics
Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: aluminum
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 10
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Power windows: remote operation
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Hard Drive: 2GB · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · XM with NavTraffic satellite radio · Total Number of Speakers: 9
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.6 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.1 · Rear brake width: .63 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Door sill trim: aluminum · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: front · Center console: dual level · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Easy entry: driver · Memorized settings: steering wheel · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Storage: sunglasses holder · Sunshade: power rear window · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 5.17
Engine
Alternator: 130 amps · Battery: 550 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: chrome · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: accent color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: anti-trapping feature
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear · Impact sensor: alert system
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: premium leather
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.2 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.6
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 25 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 21 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Telematics
Navigation system: touch screen display · Phone: voice activated · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: summer performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: aluminum
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 10
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent · Power windows: with safety reverse