The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL bridges the gap between everyday commuter affordability and upscale cabin comfort by pairing a punchy 270-horsepower V6 engine with a feature-rich interior. It delivers swift acceleration, a mature ride quality, and a quieter cabin than its four-cylinder counterparts, making it a compelling option for midsize sedan buyers who prioritize power.
We'll look closely at what makes this specific V6 trim stand out, examining its performance figures, interior layout, fuel economy trade-offs, and common pain points so you can determine if it fits your driveway.
Powertrain and Performance Metrics
Under the hood, the 3.5 SL houses a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. This engine is paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that sends power to the front wheels.
Unlike the buzzing acceleration common in base four-cylinder models, the V6 gives the car effortless passing power on the highway. Zero to sixty miles per hour takes roughly 6.2 seconds, putting it ahead of many standard midsize competitors from its model year. Steering weight is handled by an electronic-hydraulic power-assisted system that offers decent feedback, though it's tuned more for relaxed cruising than aggressive cornering. To see the full picture, check out the excellent article by The New York Times.
Cabin Comfort and Interior Features
Stepping inside reveals a cabin designed around comfort and everyday usability. Nissan utilizes zero-gravity front seats inspired by zero-g research to reduce fatigue on long road trips. The SL trim adds standard leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
Control layouts are straightforward. Physical buttons handle climate controls, while the central dash features a 7-inch color touchscreen running the NissanConnect infotainment interface. Audio duties are managed by a nine-speaker Bose sound system, which delivers clear sound reproduction. Rear seat passengers get dedicated air conditioning vents and ample legroom, though the sloping roofline slightly compromises rear headroom for taller adults.
Fuel Economy and Real-World Efficiency
Choosing the V6 engine over the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder requires accepting a noticeable penalty at the fuel pump. The Environmental Protection Agency rates the V6 model at 22 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg combined.
In real-world driving, you'll see those numbers fluctuate depending on your driving habits. Heavy city stop-and-go driving will easily push fuel consumption toward the higher end, while steady highway cruising rewards you with respectable efficiency for a six-cylinder sedan. Drivers seeking maximum fuel economy will want to look at the Nissan official site or explore smaller engine options, but the V6 trade-off buys you instantaneous throttle response.
Safety Equipment and Driver Assistance
Safety was a major focus for Nissan during this production cycle. The 3.5 SL comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including:
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Intelligent Cruise Control
- Front and rear parking sensors
These features work together to reduce blind spots and manage highway pacing. For a deeper look into safety ratings and crash test results from this era, check out the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety guidelines.
Common Shortcomings to Consider
Even with its luxury-leaning features, the 2017 Altima 3.5 SL has a few drawbacks worth noting:
- Transmission behavior: While Nissan's CVT is tuned well for fuel economy, it can feel rubbery or hesitant under hard throttle compared to a traditional geared automatic.
- Infotainment age: The 7-inch screen and software feel dated by modern standards, lacking the crisp graphics and seamless smartphone integration found in newer vehicles.
- Resale value: Midsize sedans from this era have experienced standard depreciation, meaning you'll want to inspect maintenance records carefully—especially regarding transmission service history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL require premium fuel?
No, regular unleaded gasoline is acceptable. However, using top-tier fuel can help maintain engine cleanliness over high mileage.
How much cargo space does the trunk provide?
The trunk offers 15.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity, featuring a wide opening and 60/40 split-folding rear seats for longer items.
What is the towing capacity of this vehicle?
Nissan rates this sedan for a maximum towing capacity of 1,400 pounds, though it's primarily designed for passenger and luggage transport rather than heavy hauling.
How does the SL trim differ from the SR trim?
While the 3.5 SR leans toward a sportier appearance with stiffer suspension tuning and different wheels, the 3.5 SL focuses entirely on luxury appointments like leather seating, premium audio, and advanced driver aids.
