2017 Nissan Pathfinder S

Power, Presence, and Practicality: The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder S
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder S represents a pivotal year for this legendary nameplate. Undergoing a significant mid-cycle refresh, the 2017 model moved away from its softer "mall-crawler" phase and reclaimed its rugged identity with a bolder look, a much more powerful heart, and class-leading utility. For families who need a three-row SUV that can actually work as hard as it plays, the Pathfinder S is a standout value.
A Heart with More Hustle: The New 3.5L Direct Injection V6
The headline for 2017 was the overhauled engine. While it remained a 3.5-liter V6, Nissan swapped in over 50% new parts, including a Direct Injection system. The results are immediately noticeable:
Increased Power: Horsepower jumped from 260 to a robust 284 hp, with torque increasing to 259 lb-ft. This gives the Pathfinder a snappy, confident feel when merging onto highways or passing on two-lane roads.
Best-in-Class Towing: Because of this power boost and a reinforced frame, the 2017 Pathfinder boasts a standard 6,000-pound towing capacity. That is 1,000 to 2,000 pounds more than most of its competitors, making it the clear choice for families with boats or campers.
Rugged Styling Refresh
The 2017 "S" trim benefited from Nissan’s "Signature" design language. It features a more squared-off front fascia, the bold V-Motion grille, and boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights. This updated look gives the Pathfinder a more masculine, truck-like presence on the road compared to the smoother 2016 models, aligning it more closely with its "Pathfinder" heritage.
The "S" Trim: Unbeatable Value
While the "S" is the entry-level trim, Nissan didn't skimp on the features that matter most for daily family life:
EZ Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE: This is arguably the Pathfinder’s best feature. It allows the second-row seat to tilt and slide forward even with a child safety seat installed, providing effortless access to the third row.
Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control: Standard on the S trim, this ensures that the driver, front passenger, and rear-seat occupants are all comfortable, regardless of the weather in New York.
Advanced Technology: The 2017 model introduced an 8-inch touchscreen display as standard equipment, featuring a highly intuitive interface for vehicle settings, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Composed Handling
Despite its size and capability, the 2017 Pathfinder is remarkably easy to drive. Nissan retuned the suspension for 2017, making it 11% stiffer in the front and 7% in the rear. This reduced body roll significantly, making the vehicle feel more "planted" and car-like in corners. The steering is well-weighted and responsive, providing more feedback than many other large crossovers.
The Verdict
The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder S is a "no-compromise" family vehicle. It offers the refined ride and fuel efficiency of a modern crossover with the towing capacity and rugged looks of a traditional SUV. For buyers looking for a dependable three-row vehicle that can handle the school run during the week and pull a trailer to the lake on the weekend, the Pathfinder S is a smart, powerful, and exceptionally practical choice.