A combined fuel economy rating of 24 MPG might not sound impressive, but for the 2022 Nissan Maxima, it represents an acceptable compromise. This isn’t a hybrid or a fuel-sipping commuter car; it’s a sporty sedan with a powerful V6 engine, designed for drivers who prioritize performance and a touch of luxury over saving gas. The Maxima buyer appreciates spirited acceleration and confident handling, and is willing to trade a few MPGs to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2022 Nissan Maxima achieves 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the Maxima’s blend of performance and efficiency. The city MPG is reasonable for a car of this size with a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, keeping in mind that stop-and-go traffic always hurts fuel economy. The 30 MPG highway figure is more interesting, highlighting the engine’s efficiency at sustained speeds and the effectiveness of the automatic (AV-S7) transmission’s gearing for cruising. This makes the Maxima a decent long-distance cruiser, but its primary appeal lies in its responsiveness and engaging driving dynamics on shorter trips.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Nissan Maxima is $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important to remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Drivers who accelerate quickly and those in areas with higher fuel costs will almost certainly exceed this figure, while those who primarily drive on the highway and practice efficient driving habits may see lower annual costs. This figure provides a useful point of comparison against other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world MPG is rarely identical. Maxima owners often report figures that are slightly lower than the official numbers, particularly in combined driving. Expect to see city MPG fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions, while highway MPG is generally more consistent. Accelerating quickly will dramatically reduce real-world fuel economy, while a more moderate driving style will yield results closer to the EPA estimates. Keep up with maintenance, especially tire inflation and spark plug replacement, to keep your MPG in top shape. The fun of driving with the 3.5L V6 can lead to less-than-stellar MPG, depending on driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2022 Nissan Maxima’s fuel economy sits in the middle of the pack. Consider the Toyota Avalon. The Avalon offers V6 power with an EPA-estimated combined MPG of around 26, offering better fuel economy, but it lacks some of the Maxima’s sporty driving feel. The Acura TLX, particularly the V6 trims, is another competitor. The TLX V6 models often achieve around 25 MPG combined. Drivers considering something beyond the V6 segment might cross-shop against a model like the Honda Accord 2.0T, achieving 32 combined MPG. The Maxima appeals to buyers prioritizing styling and performance over pure fuel efficiency, even if other options exist with slightly better numbers. For all Nissan fuel economy data, consult our model research pages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerating quickly is one of the quickest ways to drain the Maxima’s fuel tank. The car encourages spirited driving, but keeping your foot light on the accelerator will make a significant difference, especially in city driving. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden stops and starts to conserve fuel. For a deeper dive, here’s everything you need to know about MAXIMA MPG across all years.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal fuel economy and handling. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency and can also affect handling and tire wear.

Regular maintenance is essential for maximizing your Maxima’s fuel efficiency. Ensure that your engine is properly tuned, and that your air filter and spark plugs are clean and in good condition. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently, saving you money at the pump.

Avoid unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Remove any items from your trunk or backseat that you don’t need to carry around. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, so lighten the load whenever possible, especially if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can help you avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can improve your fuel economy. When driving uphill, try to maintain a steady throttle position rather than accelerating quickly.