Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL, a popular mid-size SUV that's been a family favorite for years. We'll be looking at everything from its features and performance to its pros and cons, helping you decide if this is the right vehicle for you. So, grab a coffee (or your drink of choice), and let's get started with this 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL review!

Unveiling the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL: Overview and Key Features

The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL sits comfortably in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and a touch of luxury. The SL trim, in particular, is positioned as a step up from the base models, boasting a range of premium features that elevate the driving experience. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's take a quick look at some of the key features that define this SUV. It’s got a solid reputation for its reliability and its ability to haul both passengers and cargo with ease. The Pathfinder SL is equipped with a powerful V6 engine, providing ample power for daily driving and towing. Inside, you'll find a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, making it an excellent choice for families. Technology-wise, the SL trim comes packed with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced safety features.

One of the most appealing aspects of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is its versatility. It's a vehicle that can seamlessly transition from the school run to a weekend getaway. With its three rows of seating, it offers plenty of space for passengers, and the second and third-row seats fold down to create a large cargo area. This makes it easy to transport everything from groceries to luggage to sporting equipment. The Pathfinder SL also excels in terms of comfort. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the ride quality is generally smooth, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The interior design is functional and well-executed, with a focus on user-friendliness. The infotainment system is intuitive to use, and the controls are generally well-placed and easy to reach. Nissan has also included a range of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, to enhance driver confidence. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and technology. It's a vehicle that's well-suited for families and anyone who needs a versatile and reliable vehicle for daily driving and weekend adventures. The inclusion of features such as a power liftgate and heated front seats adds to the overall convenience and luxury of the SL trim, making it an even more attractive option. So, whether you're looking for a vehicle to transport your kids to soccer practice or to embark on a cross-country road trip, the Pathfinder SL has you covered. The vehicle is a good buy.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood and how the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL actually drives. The Pathfinder SL is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces a respectable 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. Now, the CVT can be a bit of a polarizing topic – some people love them, while others aren't as big of fans. In the Pathfinder, the CVT generally performs well, providing smooth and seamless acceleration. It doesn't offer the traditional gear changes you get with a conventional automatic transmission, but it does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band. The Pathfinder SL offers both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options. The AWD system is particularly useful in snowy or icy conditions, providing added traction and stability.

When it comes to the driving experience, the Pathfinder SL offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The steering is light and responsive, making the SUV easy to maneuver in city driving. The Pathfinder SL is also capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a viable option for those who need to haul trailers or small boats. The acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, and the engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. Fuel economy is also decent for a vehicle of this size, with EPA estimates of around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the FWD models. The AWD models typically see slightly lower fuel economy figures. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL delivers a pleasant and user-friendly driving experience. It's not a sporty SUV, but it provides a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and plenty of power for everyday needs. The inclusion of features like a rearview camera and parking sensors further enhances the driving experience, making it easier to navigate tight parking spots and crowded streets.

Interior Comfort, Features, and Technology

Let's step inside and explore what the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL has to offer in terms of comfort, features, and technology. The cabin is well-designed and spacious, providing ample room for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the SL trim comes with leather upholstery and heated front seats. The second row of seats can slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers, and the third row is surprisingly spacious for an SUV of this size. The materials used throughout the cabin are of good quality, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. The dashboard is well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear and intuitive infotainment system. Speaking of the infotainment system, the Pathfinder SL comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, which controls the audio, navigation, and other vehicle functions. The system is easy to use and responsive, with a user-friendly interface.

Other notable features include a premium Bose audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality, and a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo. The SL trim also includes a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light and adds to the sense of spaciousness. In terms of technology, the Pathfinder SL offers a range of advanced features, including a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance driver safety and convenience. The Pathfinder SL also comes with a range of connectivity features, including Bluetooth, USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. These features allow you to stay connected on the go and keep your passengers entertained. The interior of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is a comfortable and well-equipped place to spend time. It offers a combination of comfort, convenience, and technology that makes it an appealing choice for families and anyone who values a pleasant driving experience. The attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials further enhance the overall appeal of the vehicle. It is a good car.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority for any vehicle, and the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL comes equipped with a range of features to help protect you and your passengers. The vehicle includes a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. The Pathfinder SL also features a range of active safety features, such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. These systems help to prevent accidents and keep the vehicle under control in challenging driving conditions. In addition to these standard safety features, the Pathfinder SL also offers a range of advanced safety technologies.

These include blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. The Pathfinder SL also comes with a rearview camera, which makes it easier to see what's behind you when you're reversing. In terms of safety ratings, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder received generally positive scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave the Pathfinder a four-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS awarded it with good ratings in most crashworthiness tests. The Pathfinder SL's strong safety features and positive safety ratings make it a safe and reliable choice for families. Nissan has clearly put a lot of effort into ensuring that the vehicle is well-equipped to protect its occupants in the event of a collision and to help prevent accidents from happening in the first place. The inclusion of advanced safety technologies further enhances the vehicle's safety profile. It’s a safe vehicle.

Pros and Cons of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

Now, let's weigh the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL's good points against its potential drawbacks. This is where we break down the things that make the Pathfinder a great choice and where it might fall short. It's all about providing a balanced perspective so you can make an informed decision. The pros of this car are many. It is a comfortable interior with high-quality materials, has a spacious cabin with seating for seven, and it has user-friendly infotainment systems. The cons are that the CVT transmission can feel sluggish for some, the fuel economy is okay for the class, and the third-row seating is best suited for kids.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Pros:

• Spacious and Versatile: Offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, with a flexible seating configuration.
• Comfortable Ride: Provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
• Well-Equipped: Comes with a range of features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system.
• Good Safety Ratings: Received generally positive safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

Cons:

• CVT Performance: The CVT transmission can sometimes feel sluggish, especially during acceleration.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is average for the class, but not class-leading.
• Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children and may be cramped for adults.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL Right for You?

So, after a thorough review, what's the verdict on the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL? Overall, it's a solid choice for families and anyone who needs a versatile and comfortable mid-size SUV. It offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and features. If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend trips, and family adventures, the Pathfinder SL is definitely worth considering. It's a reliable and well-equipped SUV that offers a lot of value for the price. If you prioritize a sporty driving experience or class-leading fuel economy, you might want to explore other options. But for those who value space, comfort, and versatility, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is a strong contender. Thanks for joining me for this review, guys. I hope it helps you make an informed decision. Happy car hunting!