On a full tank, a 2009 Nissan Maxima generally yields about 420–440 miles in mixed driving, with city trips around 360–380 miles and highway cruising near 520 miles, depending on conditions.
Understanding the numbers
This section explains the mpg estimates, tank size, and how range is calculated for a 2009 Maxima.
Key specifications at a glance
The 2009 Maxima uses a 3.5-liter V6 and is paired with a 20-gallon gas tank. EPA fuel economy figures commonly cited are about 18–19 miles per gallon in city driving and 26 miles per gallon on the highway, yielding a combined rating near 21–22 mpg. Actual range depends on driving conditions and maintenance.
Estimated range by driving conditions
Below are typical full-tank ranges based on EPA estimates and a 20-gallon tank. These numbers are approximate and assume no unusual conditions.
- City driving range: about 360–380 miles per tank (18–19 mpg).
- Highway driving range: about 520 miles per tank (26 mpg).
- Combined driving range: about 420–440 miles per tank (21–22 mpg).
Note: Real-world range will vary with factors such as terrain, climate control use, and maintenance.
Real-world factors that affect range
Understanding what can push the numbers higher or lower helps set expectations for daily use.
- Driving style: Gentle driving yields better mpg than aggressive acceleration and hard braking.
- Terrain and altitude: Hills and headwinds reduce range.
- Climate control: A/C use and heated features can slightly reduce mpg.
- Vehicle condition: Proper tire inflation, clean air filters, and timely maintenance help maximize efficiency.
Maintaining your Maxima and adopting economical driving habits can help you approach the EPA estimates.
Summary
In typical mixed driving, a 2009 Nissan Maxima with a 20-gallon tank yields about 420–440 miles per tank. For city-heavy driving you might see roughly 360–380 miles, while sustained highway driving can push toward about 520 miles. Real-world results vary with maintenance, load, and driving conditions.


