Infiniti
I30
Nissan
Maxima
Infiniti I30 vs Nissan Maxima: 2019 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Nissan Maxima comes out ahead of the Infiniti I30 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
I30
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability and durability, particularly for the VQ30DE engine and automatic transmission. The vehicle is consistently praised as a high-mileage workhorse, with multiple reports of reaching 250,000 to 300,000 miles with basic maintenance. Owners describe it as a tremendous value, offering luxury features and comfort derived from the Nissan Maxima platform at a lower cost.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a preferred trim or model year. Feedback is generalized across the 1996-2001 generation, with no specific trim (e.g., base, Touring) highlighted as superior.
Known issues
- ⚠Ignition coil failure: Coils reported to fail around 120,000-140,000 miles, causing misfires (codes P0300, P0305). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Sensor failure: Causes intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, and diagnostic trouble codes (P0335). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) failure: Leads to rough idle, stalling, and high idle issues (code P0505). Frequency: recurrent.
Maxima
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation, with a clear consensus that reliability and owner satisfaction declined significantly after the early 2000s. Owners of late 1990s and early 2000s models (e.g., 1998, 1999, 2002, 2003) report extremely high satisfaction, describing these vehicles as "amazing," "bulletproof," and capable of reaching very high mileages (260,000-300,000 miles) with only basic maintenance. These generations are frequently praised for their engaging drive, solid build quality, and low cost of ownership.
Best version to buy
Late 1990s to early 2000s models (specifically mentioned: 1998, 1999, 2002, 2003). These are consistently highlighted as the peak for reliability, build quality, and driving enjoyment.
Known issues
- ⚠Catastrophic CVT failure: Premature failure often before 100,000 miles, characterized by slipping, jerking, loss of power, and high operating temperatures. Considered a severe safety risk. Frequency: very frequent (2013+ models).
- ⚠CVT reliability concerns: General anxiety about long-term durability, transmission "whine," and expensive repair costs ($6,000+ for a rebuild). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Jerky acceleration and shifting: Especially noted in 2016 and 2022 models, with stuttering during gear simulation and unresponsive throttle. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Infiniti I30 is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Nissan Maxima, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Infiniti I30 are a dealbreaker, the Nissan Maxima is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti I30 or the Nissan Maxima?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Infiniti I30 than the Nissan Maxima. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti I30 or the Nissan Maxima?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti I30 or the Nissan Maxima?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti I30 or the Nissan Maxima?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Maxima than the Infiniti I30. See the known issues comparison above.