The 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum represents Nissan's strong mid-size sedan offering, combining aggressive styling with a comfortable cabin and refined performance. This review explores how the Platinum trim balances luxury features, technology, and value for daily drivers and families.
Below is a detailed snapshot of the 2017 Maxima Platinum compared with other key configurations in the model lineup.
| Trim Level | Engine | Drivetrain | Key Luxury Features | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | 3.5L V6 (300 hp) | FWD | LED headlights, cloth seats, basic infotainment | $31,200 |
| SV | 3.5L V6 (300 hp) | FWD | Power liftgate, leather seating surfaces, dual-zone climate | $33,250 |
| SL | 3.5L V6 (300 hp) | FWD | Panoramic moonroof, adaptive cruise, ventilated front seats | $37,700 |
| Platinum | 3.5L V6 (300 hp) | FWD | Heated front/rear seats, Bowers & Wilkins audio, advanced safety suite | $39,900 |
Platinum Interior Comfort And Atmosphere
Stepping into the 2017 Maxima Platinum, you notice a cabin crafted with soft-touch materials and restrained metallic accents. The design leans toward modern sophistication rather than overt sportiness, making long drives feel more relaxed.
Seating comfort is a highlight, with power-adjustable front seats offering ample memory settings and heated front and rear seats that deliver consistent warmth on cooler days. The driver-centric cockpit positions controls intuitively, reducing distractions while keeping essential functions within easy reach.
Noise insulation is better than average for this class, with thick window glass and improved sealing that make highway cruising serene. Combined with the optional Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system, the Platinum offers a cabin that feels genuinely luxurious without crossing into ultra-luxury price territory.
Performance Handling And Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2017 Maxima Platinum retains the reliable 3.5L V6 that produces 300 horsepower, paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Power delivery is linear and confident, with adequate mid-range torque that makes merging and passing feel effortless.
Suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over razor-sharp handling, giving the car a composed ride over broken pavement and gentle roll in corners. The electric power steering is well-weighted, enhancing low-speed maneuverability while still providing enough feedback at higher speeds.
For drivers who want more engagement, thesport mode adjusts throttle response and steering feel, tightening the experience without transforming the Maxima into a sports sedan. This balance of comfort and mild performance character suits both daily commutes and weekend road trips.
Technology Infotainment And Connectivity
The 2017 Maxima Platinum introduced an upgraded infotainment system that improved usability while keeping familiar layouts. An 8-inch touchscreen sits at the center of the dashboard, housing Nissan's updated navigation, audio, and vehicle settings with clearer menus and faster load times.
Wireless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was becoming more common, allowing seamless access to messaging, navigation, and music without cluttering the cabin with cables. Bluetooth connectivity remained robust, supporting hands-free calling and audio streaming from multiple paired devices.
Advanced driver assistance technologies, including available adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot intervention, helped the Platinum stay competitive in an era where safety features were rapidly becoming standard expectations.
Safety Ratings And Real World Protection
Safety was a strong point for the 2017 Maxima Platinum, earning high marks from independent testing agencies thanks to its comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. Standard active safety features covered frontal emergency braking, lane departure mitigation, and rear cross-traffic alert in many markets.
In crash testing, the Maxima demonstrated solid structural integrity and effective restraint deployment, contributing to strong overall safety ratings. The combination of physical airbags, advanced sensors, and automated braking systems provided multiple layers of protection for occupants in various collision scenarios.
For families and commuters, this blend of proven passive safety and forward-looking active systems made the Platinum a reassuring choice in crowded segment where accident avoidance matters as much as comfort.
Key Takeaways For Potential Buyers
- Platinum trim delivers premium comfort with heated front and rear seats, superior noise control, and a refined audio experience.
- Performance is confident and relaxed, with a smooth 300 hp V6 and balanced handling suitable for both daily driving and road trips.
- Technology is up to date, featuring an responsive 8-inch infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced driver assistance options.
- Safety is comprehensive, combining strong crash-test results with practical active safety features that enhance real-world protection.
- Overall value is compelling, positioning the 2017 Maxima Platinum as a well-equipped mid-size sedan that blends comfort, performance, and advanced features.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does the 2017 Maxima Platinum compare to the SL trim in real-world comfort?
The Platinum trim adds heated front and rear seats, better noise insulation, and the Bowers & Wilkins audio system, delivering a noticeably more luxurious and serene experience than the SL, while both share the same core performance and dimensions.
Is the infotainment system in the 2017 Maxima Platinum easy to use while driving?
The upgraded 8-inch touchscreen layout is intuitive, with large icons and responsive menus, and both CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow familiar smartphone apps to be controlled safely with minimal distraction.
Does the 2017 Maxima Platinum offer enough rear-seat space for taller passengers?
Yes, the Maxima's mid-size sedan design provides generous headroom and legroom in the rear, accommodating taller passengers comfortably on long trips without the cabin feeling cramped.
What maintenance costs should owners expect beyond the warranty period for the 2017 Maxima Platinum?
Routine maintenance aligns with Nissan's recommended schedule, with competitive service costs for its class; tire wear and brake pad replacement intervals are typical, while the V6 engine remains reliable when serviced regularly.