Hey guys! Ever wondered if the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is the right ride for your family? Well, you're in the right spot! We're diving deep into the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL review, checking out what makes it tick, its strengths, and even where it could be better. This SUV has been a popular choice for families, but is it still a top contender? Let's find out! This review will cover everything from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to take a detailed look at this family-friendly SUV. We'll explore its engine options, the technology inside, and how it handles on the road. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of whether the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL fits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, this review is for you. So, let's get started and see what the Pathfinder SL has to offer. We'll start with a look at the exterior design and then move inside to explore the features and technology. We'll also take a look at the safety features and the overall driving experience. So, stick around because we're about to uncover everything you need to know about the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. It's time to find out if this SUV is the perfect fit for you and your family!

Exterior Design and Styling

Alright, let's kick things off with the exterior design of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. The Pathfinder has always been known for its blend of ruggedness and sophistication. The 2017 model keeps that spirit alive. It’s got a bold front fascia with Nissan’s signature V-motion grille, which gives it a modern and assertive look. The headlights are sleek and integrated well with the overall design. When you look at the profile, you'll notice the Pathfinder's smooth lines. It doesn't scream “off-roader,” but rather, it's a stylish SUV that can handle family life with ease. The SL trim usually comes with some nice touches, like chrome accents around the windows and on the door handles, which add a touch of elegance. You'll also likely find features like a power liftgate, making it super convenient for loading and unloading groceries, sports equipment, or whatever else your busy life throws at you. The design is all about balance; it looks good in the city and can handle a weekend trip to the mountains. The overall aesthetic is clean and refined, reflecting its focus on practicality and comfort. The designers did a great job creating a vehicle that's both attractive and functional, suitable for a variety of lifestyles. The Pathfinder SL aims to be a family vehicle that doesn't compromise on style. They've nailed that goal, in my opinion! The design is meant to be timeless, not flashy, so it should look great for years to come. The paint options are also usually quite versatile, fitting a range of tastes.

Interior Comfort and Features

Now, let's step inside and explore the interior comfort and features of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. The Pathfinder SL is all about providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both the driver and the passengers. You'll often find premium materials like leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin. The seats are typically supportive and comfortable, perfect for long road trips. The driver's seat often comes with power adjustments, making it easy to find your ideal driving position. The second row offers plenty of space for passengers, even adults, with comfortable seating and often, features like reclining seats to maximize comfort. And let's not forget the third row, which is a key selling point for a family SUV. While it's usually best suited for kids, it does add extra seating capacity when you need it. The SL trim usually comes packed with features. Think of things like heated front seats, a must-have for those cold mornings, and possibly even heated second-row seats. You can expect a dual-zone automatic climate control system, so you and your passengers can set your preferred temperatures. Tech features are also essential, with a user-friendly infotainment system, likely including a touchscreen display, navigation, and smartphone integration (like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, depending on the model). The Pathfinder also boasts a variety of storage solutions throughout the cabin, so you can keep everything organized. And the overall ambiance is designed to be inviting, making the Pathfinder SL a great place to spend time, whether it's a daily commute or a cross-country adventure. The designers have clearly prioritized comfort and practicality.

Performance and Driving Experience

Let’s get into the performance and driving experience of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. Under the hood, the Pathfinder SL typically comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provides a good balance of power and efficiency. This engine delivers enough grunt to handle everyday driving situations, including merging onto highways and carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The engine is usually paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. While some drivers might not be huge fans of CVTs, Nissan has done a pretty good job tuning this one, making it relatively smooth and responsive. You'll likely have the option of either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The AWD system provides added traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The Pathfinder's ride quality is generally comfortable, with a suspension that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road well. It's not a sports car, but it offers a smooth and controlled driving experience, ideal for family use. Steering is typically light and easy, making it maneuverable in city driving and parking. The Pathfinder's handling is predictable and stable, so you'll feel confident behind the wheel. The Pathfinder SL is designed to be a comfortable and practical family SUV. Its performance reflects this, with an emphasis on ease of use, smooth ride quality, and decent fuel economy. It’s not meant to be a high-performance machine, but it gets the job done reliably and comfortably. The Pathfinder SL is a solid choice for everyday driving and occasional weekend adventures. The acceleration is adequate for most needs, and the overall driving experience is quite pleasant. You can expect a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Technology and Infotainment

Let's explore the technology and infotainment features found in the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. This model year generally offers a solid array of tech to keep you connected and entertained on the road. You can usually expect a touchscreen display in the center console, which serves as the hub for the infotainment system. This display is used to control various functions, like audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. The SL trim often comes with a higher-end infotainment system, which could include features like navigation, a premium audio system, and a larger touchscreen. Smartphone integration is a key feature, so you can expect to find Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car and access your apps, music, and navigation on the touchscreen. You can also expect to find Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The Pathfinder SL typically includes USB ports, both in the front and back, so everyone can charge their devices. Some models might even have multiple USB ports or even USB-C ports. Other technology features might include a surround-view camera system, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. The Pathfinder SL's tech features are designed to enhance convenience and safety, making your driving experience more enjoyable. The infotainment system is generally user-friendly, with intuitive menus and controls. The sound system is usually quite good, providing a great audio experience. The technology in the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is modern and practical, making it a great choice for families who need to stay connected. The Pathfinder SL is all about connectivity and user-friendliness.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority, so let's delve into the safety features of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. Nissan equips the Pathfinder SL with a variety of safety features to help protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features typically include airbags throughout the cabin, including front, side, and curtain airbags. You can also expect to find anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control systems (TCS). These systems work together to help maintain control of the vehicle in various driving conditions. The SL trim often comes with advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots. You might also find rear cross-traffic alert, which helps you when backing out of parking spaces. Some models may have features like adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The Pathfinder SL is also equipped with a rearview camera, which makes backing up and parking much easier. Nissan prioritizes safety, providing a comprehensive set of features to help protect you and your passengers. The safety features are designed to provide peace of mind on the road. The Pathfinder SL is a safe and reliable family SUV. The inclusion of these features helps to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Nissan provides a comprehensive safety package.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Let’s talk about fuel economy and efficiency in the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2017 Pathfinder SL offers competitive numbers for its class. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is paired with a CVT, which is designed to maximize fuel economy. You can typically expect to get around 20-21 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and around 26-27 MPG on the highway with the front-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel-drive models will usually see slightly lower numbers, but still offer pretty decent fuel economy for an SUV of its size. These figures make the Pathfinder SL a reasonable choice for daily commutes and family trips. The Pathfinder SL is not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. However, it provides a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The CVT helps to optimize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine running at its most efficient speeds. The overall fuel economy is competitive within its segment. The Pathfinder SL offers a balance of power, space, and fuel efficiency. It’s a practical choice for families who want a capable and fuel-efficient SUV. While not class-leading, its fuel economy is respectable.

Trim Levels and Options

Let's get into the trim levels and options for the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder. The 2017 Pathfinder typically comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim is often the S, offering a good set of essential features at an affordable price. Moving up, you'll find the SV trim, which adds some extra features like a power-adjustable driver's seat and upgraded infotainment system. The SL trim, which we've been focusing on, is a step up, including features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The top-of-the-line trim is usually the Platinum, which adds even more luxury features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Nissan also typically offers various option packages. These packages can add features like a towing package, which is useful if you plan to tow a trailer or boat. Some packages might include additional safety features or technology upgrades. The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder has different trims to match every budget and need. The trim levels give you a range of choices when it comes to features and equipment. You can customize the Pathfinder SL with options and packages.

Pros and Cons

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL. Let's break down the good and bad to give you a clear picture.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Pathfinder offers a roomy interior with three rows of seating, making it great for families.
• Comfortable Ride: It has a smooth and comfortable ride, perfect for both city driving and long road trips.
• User-Friendly Features: The infotainment system is usually easy to use, and it often includes useful features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Fuel Efficiency: Compared to some of its competitors, the Pathfinder offers decent fuel economy for its size.
• Stylish Design: The exterior design is sleek and modern, providing a sophisticated look.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission: Some drivers might not like the feel of the CVT transmission, although Nissan's version is relatively smooth.
• Third-Row Space: While the third row is a plus, the space can be a bit tight for adults.
• Off-Road Capability: It’s not designed for serious off-roading; it's more of a family-friendly SUV.
• Acceleration: The acceleration might feel a bit sluggish compared to some other SUVs in its class.

These pros and cons should give you a good overview to make your decision. Consider your specific needs and priorities. The Pathfinder SL balances comfort, space, and practicality.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL right for you? After looking at all the features, performance, and the pros and cons, let's wrap it up. The Pathfinder SL is a solid choice for families looking for a comfortable, practical, and stylish SUV. It offers a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The SL trim adds a touch of luxury with its leather upholstery and premium features. However, it's not perfect. The CVT transmission might not be everyone's favorite, and the third row is best suited for kids. Also, it’s not designed for serious off-roading. If you prioritize space, comfort, and ease of use, the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for everyday driving, family trips, and more. This SUV is a great choice for those who want a blend of practicality and style. If you have a growing family, this could be the perfect ride! Check it out if you're in the market.

I hope this review has helped you. Happy car hunting, guys!