The Nissan Maxima QX V (A33), produced between 2000 and 2004, represented a significant iteration of Nissan’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a near-luxury offering, the A33 generation Maxima aimed to blend sporty handling with comfortable accommodations. The QX V trim, specifically equipped with the 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 200 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the Maxima lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base models while remaining more accessible than the fully-loaded trims. It was primarily marketed towards American consumers seeking a reliable, stylish, and reasonably powerful sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima |
| Generation | Maxima QX V (A33) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 24V (200 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 271 Nm @ 3600 rpm (199.88 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ30DE |
| Engine displacement | 2988 cm3 (182.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.3 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4920 mm (193.7 in.) |
| Width | 1780 mm (70.08 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Maxima QX V was the VQ30DE 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine, part of Nissan’s highly-regarded VQ engine family, was known for its smooth operation, relatively high power output, and overall reliability. The VQ30DE featured a 60-degree V-angle, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into each intake port. The engine produced 200 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 271 Nm (199.88 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized a broad torque curve, making it responsive in everyday driving situations. The A33 Maxima QX V was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, offering drivers a more engaging driving experience compared to the available automatic option.
Driving Characteristics
The 200-horsepower V6, coupled with the 5-speed manual transmission, provided the Maxima QX V with respectable acceleration. Zero to sixty mph times were typically around 7.8 seconds, making it competitive with other mid-size sedans of the era. The manual transmission allowed for precise control and maximized the engine’s power potential. Compared to the base 2.5-liter engine, the 3.0-liter V6 offered a noticeable improvement in both acceleration and overall responsiveness. While not a dedicated sports sedan, the Maxima QX V provided a balanced driving experience, combining comfort with a degree of athleticism. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride while still maintaining reasonable handling characteristics.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX V trim level included a number of standard features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The interior design was generally considered to be functional and well-laid-out, although it lacked the outright luxury of some of its European competitors. The QX V trim aimed to provide a good balance of features and value.
Chassis & Braking
The A33 Maxima utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a spring strut suspension in the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The QX V trim came standard with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was also standard, enhancing safety. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and controlled driving experience, with a focus on minimizing body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Maxima QX V was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its smooth engine, comfortable ride, and overall value. However, some critics noted that the interior lacked the refinement of some of its competitors, and the styling was considered somewhat conservative. Compared to the base Maxima models, the QX V offered a significant performance upgrade. Compared to other mid-size sedans, such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Maxima QX V offered a more sporty driving experience, but often at the expense of fuel economy. Fuel economy figures were around 24.8 US mpg combined.
Legacy
The VQ30DE engine proved to be remarkably durable and reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. The A33 Maxima, and the QX V trim in particular, has developed a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of performance, comfort, and affordability. While not a collector’s item, well-maintained examples of the Maxima QX V can still command reasonable prices in the used car market. The engine’s longevity and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its continued appeal. The A33 Maxima represents a solid and dependable choice for those seeking a comfortable and reasonably powerful mid-size sedan.
