The 2014 Nissan Maxima is a well-rounded five-passenger sedan that melds performance and comfortable cruising in a value proposition package. Its powerful 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 has the get-up-and-go for tasks like accelerating from the stoplights and passing at highway speeds. 

Nissan’s 2014 Maxima has a current price between $16,000 and $18,000, contingent on the upscale features. Depending on where in the U.S. a used 2014 Maxima is listed, it can be had for less. Therefore, U.S. News thinks it’s a “solid” large sedan pick. Aside from the price, they say there’s a “hidden benefit” in selecting Nissan’s “four-door sports car.”

What’s the hidden benefit?

It can be particularly tough when choosing between trim levels on the used car market. Since shoppers aren’t picking out every minor feature at the dealership, it can be tricky to satiate desires. 

As well, many models today have half-a-dozen or so trim levels. It will be challenging to differentiate between the losses and gains over one trim level or another. Luckily, Nissan made it easier for the 2014 Maxima. There are only two trim levels from which to choose.

2014 Nissan Maxima S standard features

The base model Maxima S seats the driver and four passengers on standard cloth upholstery, but those in the front get power-adjustable seats. Many reviewers purport that the 2014 Maxima’s front seats are spacious and supportive. 

But others have an issue with the back row’s lackluster leg and headroom, particularly the middle seat. Regardless, it doesn’t seem to be a significant concern. While some sedans require a more expensive trim level for split-folding rear seats, the Maxima doesn’t. Such a feature expands the sedan’s above-average trunk cargo space of 14.2 cubic feet.

Other standard features in the 2014 Nissan Maxima S include Bluetooth capability, an eight-speaker audio system with auxiliary input, and a six-disc CD changer. Consumers also get dual-zone automatic climate control, a moonroof, proximity-key entry, and a push-button start.

Maxima SV trim level perks

The upscale SV trim has the same cabin construction but will have leather upholstery. Many will have either heated front seats or a heated and cooled driver’s seat. SV models fitted with the Premium or Sport package also have rear bucket seats with side bolstering. Even though the seats are quite sporty and comfortable, it does mean getting rid of the folding feature to maximize cargo space.

Despite the pass-through only feature on the SV’s back seats, it’s the only thing that isn’t better than the base model. The 2014 Maxima SV has a rearview camera, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-panel moonroof with power sunshades. 

On the tech front, the SV features a seven-inch infotainment display with a Bose sound system, Bluetooth, satellite radio, navigation, voice activation, and a USB port. Reviewers say infotainment’s physical controls are responsive, and the system is intuitive, something found in higher-priced luxury sedans.

Should you buy a 2014 Nissan Maxima?

There’s quite a crucial drawback to the Maxima, however. Unfortunately, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2014 Maxima received just a marginal rating in its rear crash protection. 

Yet, the 2014 Maxima isn’t a dangerous car. It still earned an overall rating of four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

While its safety scores may cause some concern for shoppers, the Maxima’s reliability can quell them. J.D. Power rates the 2014 Maxima as one of the most reliable and value-packed cars in its class. Moreover, there haven’t been any recalls on the sporty sedan.