25 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2016 Nissan Maxima 3.5L V6, but here’s why. It’s not a hybrid or a compact commuter. It’s a stylish sedan with a strong V6 engine made for fun driving. Maxima buyers want performance and style, and they accept the fuel usage that comes with it. They’re often empty nesters treating themselves, or younger professionals who want a car that stands out. They’re likely not considering a Prius.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Maxima are 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure depends on driving style, as hard acceleration will lower fuel economy. The highway number is more consistent, reflecting the Maxima’s ability to cruise comfortably at speed thanks to its continuously variable transmission (CVT), an evolution of the AV-S7, programmed with simulated gear changes to avoid the CVT drone. This programming helps keep the engine in its most efficient range at steady speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan Maxima 3.5L V6 at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s estimate of average fuel prices at the time of testing. Remember that actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. The Maxima doesn’t require premium fuel, but using it can theoretically give a slight performance boost and, potentially, a marginal improvement in fuel economy, though that may not offset the higher cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Maxima owners who prioritize performance and frequently drive fast will likely see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range. Those with a lighter foot and more highway driving may achieve figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the 30 MPG highway estimate. Things like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather can also affect fuel use. Keeping your tires inflated and ensuring your Maxima is well-maintained are critical for good efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Maxima’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The Buick LaCrosse, for example, with its available 3.6L V6, offers similar performance and achieves roughly the same 25 MPG combined. A Toyota Avalon, also using a 3.5L V6, typically gets slightly better figures around 24 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. Even an Acura TLX with its 3.5L V6 can muster up to 25 MPG combined due to slightly different drivetrain tuning and weight. Buyers considering the Maxima are often willing to give up a small fuel economy advantage for its more aggressive styling and sportier driving compared to some of its more conservative rivals. Explore MAXIMA MPG across all years to see how different model years stack up.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Maxima’s Eco mode. This mode changes the throttle response and CVT programming to prioritize fuel efficiency. It may slightly reduce acceleration, but it can make a difference in city driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic where this car burns fuel quickly.

Drive smoothly. The Maxima’s V6 engine is responsive, but hard acceleration wastes fuel. Watch traffic and avoid sudden stops to maximize fuel economy. Using cruise control on long highway drives can help keep a constant speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Keep tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb. Given this car’s weight and driving, this is especially important.

Don’t idle. Idling wastes fuel, especially in modern vehicles. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Many newer vehicles have auto-start-stop to help with this, which the 2016 Maxima does not have, making driver diligence all the more important.

Keep up with maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and working spark plugs are essential for good engine performance and fuel efficiency. A neglected engine will not run as efficiently as a well-maintained one. Check all Nissan fuel economy data to see where this model fits overall in the Nissan lineup.