Interior

The new model has the same high quality of features and materials that won it glowing reviews last year. The standard model comes with temperature-controlled front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated seats in the second row, and the welcome and familiar panoramic sunroof. Even though the dash and door panels look plush at first, on closer inspection one finds that they are largely cleverly disguised hard plastics with accents of faux Brazilwood which, while unconvincing- are not bad looking. But this is just part of how Nissan keeps the 2017 Pathfinder in its expected price range while making some important enhancements where it really counts.

Technology

The Pathfinder's 284-hp V-6 received a complete overhaul for new that drives it closer to the head of its class. Direct injection is a new addition to the 3.5-liter engine, as are its revised pistons, a more intense compression ratio, and variable valve timing. The revisions generate an additional 19 lb-ft of torque and 24 horsepower above the 2016 Pathfinder. The new engine permits a 7.4-second dash from 0 to 60- just 0.1 second faster than the 2016 Pathfinder- not quite the 0.2-second boost that Nissan predicted they would achieve- but it's still a welcome improvement.

Performance

While Nissan's Pathfinder falls slightly short of the brand's anticipated power boost for this year, there is still a noticeable difference which will please fans of this line of utility vehicles- and while it still qualifies a full second short of the Honda Pilot, most buyers will find that the Pathfinder is sufficiently muscular for merging quickly onto freeways or to jump into traffic. Its tow rating has been elevated to 6000 from the previous year's 5000 pounds for all trim packages. It achieves this while maintaining the same fuel economy rating of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway from 2016. The front-wheel-drive version rates 19/26 mpg- which is about as good as it gets for this vehicle class in this price range.

Nissan has also made a number of adjustments to the frame which makes it more responsive. Its spring ratings are increased by 11% in front and 7% at the rear. The steering has a quicker turning ratio and has been re-tuned for a better buildup of effort as the driver departs from centerline for a good measure of improved responsiveness.

Safety

This year's Nissan Pathfinder has earned an impressive 5-Star Safety Rating from the federal government. This is excellent for an SUV, a vehicle class which generally has poor rollover stats. The retrofitted 2017 Nissan Pathfinder mid-size SUV also earned the top score, a five-star safety rating, bumper to bumper from the NHTSA.