Skip to main content

Although Americans love their trucks and SUVs, there’s still room in the marketplace for large sedans. Two popular sedans are the 2023 Nissan Maxima and the Honda Accord. And while the Maxima is technically considered a full-size sedan – the Altima is mid-size – the 2023 Accord is larger than before and goes toe-to-toe with Nissan’s flagship. However, there are four reasons buyers might want to choose the Maxima over the new Accord.

1. The 2023 Nissan Maxima has a more powerful engine than the Honda Accord

2023 Nissan Maxima in white
2023 Nissan Maxima | Nissan

One of the main highlights of the all-new 2023 Honda Accord is its revised hybrid powertrain. The dual-motor system produces 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, which is impressive. However, it’s a little wimpy compared to the 3.5-liter V6 engine that you’ll find in the 2023 Nissan Maxima. That beefy engine puts out 300 hp and 261 lb-ft of torque, which provides a far more fun driving experience.

However, when it comes to fuel efficiency, the Maxima obviously loses with its 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway ratings compared to the Accord’s 46 city and 41 highway ratings. But who needs mileage when you have power?

2. The Maxima has zero-gravity seats with 3D bolsters

2023 Nissan Maxima interior
2023 Nissan Maxima | Nissan

We have no doubts that the 2023 Honda Accord’s newly designed interior and seats are comfortable. But we’re also willing to bet that the Nissan Maxima’s seats are a little plusher. Why? Because they’re Zero Gravity seats that have 14 pressure points to put you in a neutral position and provide a lot of support.

The editors at Edmunds noted, “The Maxima’s seats straddle the line between sporty support and long-distance comfort. They’ll keep you in place through the fast corners but remain comfortable for long stretches.” It looks like Nissan has the right recipe for seats.

3. The Nissan Maxima has a bolder look than the Accord

This new Nissan Maxima looks the part with its sculpted rear design, but the Maxima might exhibit check engine lights and problems down the road.
Nissan Maxima | Nissan

Looks are subjective, but we think the Nissan Maxima has a much bolder look than the Honda Accord. For the new model year, Honda smoothed out the Accord’s overall look, making it look softer and more sophisticated. It looks good, but we like the bulgier look of the Maxima’s fenders, its angular headlight, and the floating roofline.

4. The Maxima offers sharp driving dynamics

2023 Nissan Maxima on the road
Nissan Maxima on the road | Nissan Motor Corporation, Official U.S. Newsroom

Nissan has touted the Maxima as a “four-door sports car” for years. Considering the Maxima has a sport-tuned suspension, a potent V6 engine, and different drive modes to tailor the experience. Edmunds also noted that the Maxima “feels heavy at low speeds but lighter and more agile as the speed increases.” That could mean that the faster you drive it, the better it gets – which is what you would want in a four-door sports car.

The Nissan Maxima will bow out after 2023

If you’re looking for a sporty sedan but want something a little more exciting than a 2023 Honda Accord, the 2023 Nissan Maxima is a great choice. However, if you want a new one, you better act fast because the Maxima will be discontinued after the 2023 model year.