The Nissan Maxima is the Japanese automaker’s flagship luxury sedan. It doesn’t stop there, though. Nissan bills the Maxima as a luxury sedan with sports-oriented performance credentials. However, before you purchase a new Nissan Maxima, you’ll have to choose between a few trims. How much will it cost if you want to buy the cheapest 2022 Nissan Maxima? 

• SV: The Nissan Maxima SV has a starting price of $38,865.
• SR: The sporty Nissan Maxima SR has a starting price of $44,025.
• Platinum: The plush Nissan Maxima Platinum has a starting price of $44,175.

How much is the 2022 Nissan Maxima SV?

The Nissan Maxima SV starts at $38,865 and offers one engine option. The Nissan Maxima SV is the entry-level trim, which comes standard with a 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. For the model year 2022, Nissan paired the 3.5L V6 with continuously variable transmission (CVT). Don’t expect the bells and whistles of the range-topping Nissan Maxima Platinum, though. 

What does the cheapest Maxima offer?

A new Nissan Maxima SV comes standard with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detecting technology, and lane departure warning. Additionally, the SV comes from the factory equipped with rear cross-traffic warning, blind-spot detection, and rear automatic braking. On top of all this safety technology, the Maxima has an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

How much is the 2022 Nissan Maxima SR?

The next trim level of Maxima is quite a bit more expensive than the SV. The 2022 Nissan Maxima SR has a starting price of $44,025. There is no difference in drivetrain between the SR and the base SV, but there are suspension and comfort improvements. The SR has sport-tuned suspension that Nissan installed to give the Maxima sporty handling. In addition to suspension upgrades, Consumer Reports states that the Nissan Maxima gets sporty leather and Alcantara seats. 

How expensive is the top-of-the-line Platinum trim? 

The range-topping Maxima is the Platinum trim, and it has a starting price of $44,175. The Nissan Maxima Platinum has an interior fit and finish that Consumer Reports claims is up to higher-tier luxury manufacturer standards. Nissan equipped the Maxima Platinum with Ascot leather quilted seats, maple wood-tone trim, and a surround-view camera system. In addition to the handsome and practical interior features, Nissan added heated rear seats to the Maxima platinum. However, at $44,175 and up, Consumer Reports says that the money is better used buying a competitor for the Maxima, like the Toyota Avalon.  

Is the cheapest Nissan Maxima worth the money? 

While the SR and Platinum are pricey additions to the Maxima line, the SV is a tempting $5,000 less. However, Consumer Reports states that car shoppers would be better off buying a Platinum, given the improvements in comfort and technology. Furthermore, consumers would likely enjoy a competitor more than the Maxima, such as the Dodge Charger or Toyota Avalon.