Hey everyone, let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL's interior. This is where you'll spend most of your time, so it's a big deal! The Altima 3.5 SL was the top-of-the-line trim for the 2017 model year, offering a bunch of cool features and a generally comfy experience. We're going to break down the key aspects of the interior, from the materials used to the tech gadgets included, and what it's like to live with this car day-to-day. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Interior Design and Materials of the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL

Alright, first impressions matter, right? Stepping into the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL, you're greeted with a pretty well-designed cabin. Nissan did a decent job of balancing a modern look with practicality. While it’s not a luxury car, the 3.5 SL trim definitely feels a step up from the base models. The materials used, particularly in this top-tier trim, make a noticeable difference. You'll find leather-appointed seats, which are a major upgrade in terms of both comfort and aesthetics. These aren't just any leather seats; they’re designed for a good level of support, making those longer drives a lot more bearable. The steering wheel is also wrapped in leather, adding to the premium feel. The leather feels soft to the touch and adds a touch of sophistication to the driving experience. This detail alone significantly elevates the overall feel of the interior.

Beyond the leather, there are other materials that contribute to the overall ambiance. Soft-touch materials are used in key areas like the dashboard and door panels. These materials aren't just about looking good; they also contribute to a quieter cabin by absorbing some road noise. The dash itself is well-laid out, with controls that are generally easy to reach and understand. Nissan aimed for a driver-centric design, which means everything you need is within easy reach. The center console is thoughtfully designed, with ample storage space for your phone, keys, and other essentials. You'll also notice the use of some faux wood or metallic trim accents, which add a touch of visual interest. These accents aren't overdone, but they do help break up the monotony and add a bit of flair. The overall design philosophy is about creating a space that is functional, comfortable, and visually appealing without going overboard. They were aiming for a balance between practicality and a touch of luxury, which they mostly achieved. The interior's design ensures the driver and passengers feel comfortable and in control, making it a pleasant place to be, whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip. The fit and finish are generally good, with minimal gaps and well-aligned panels, reflecting a focus on quality and attention to detail. This isn't just about the materials used; it's about how they're put together.

The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL offers a balanced approach, making it appealing for both everyday driving and longer journeys. They’ve done a good job of creating a comfortable and practical interior. So, in summary, the interior design and materials are a step up from the base trims, making for a more comfortable and visually appealing experience. The leather seats, soft-touch materials, and thoughtful design elements all work together to create an inviting and functional cabin.

Comfort and Space: Seating, Legroom, and Headroom

Let’s talk about comfort, because that's super important, right? The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL does a pretty good job in this department. Starting with the seats, as mentioned earlier, they're leather-appointed, which is a big plus. The front seats are particularly well-designed, offering a good balance of support and comfort. They’re not overly bolstered, so getting in and out is easy, but they still provide enough support to keep you comfortable on longer drives. The driver's seat comes with power adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune your position for optimal comfort and visibility. Power lumbar support is also included, which is a lifesaver for those of us with back issues. You can really dial in the perfect amount of support. The passenger seat also benefits from power adjustments, which is a nice touch. It shows Nissan's commitment to making the experience comfortable for everyone, not just the driver.

Now, let's talk about space. The Altima offers a decent amount of legroom and headroom, both in the front and rear. Even taller passengers should find the rear seats reasonably comfortable, which is great if you often carry friends or family. Nissan has done a good job of maximizing the available space. The rear seats are also reasonably supportive, and the bench is contoured to provide a good level of comfort. The legroom is generous, so passengers in the back won't feel cramped, even on longer journeys. The headroom is also adequate, so you shouldn't have to worry about bumping your head. This makes the Altima a practical choice for families or anyone who regularly needs to transport passengers. The overall space is well-utilized, providing a comfortable environment for everyone inside the car. The cabin feels open and airy, which helps to reduce any feeling of claustrophobia. The design of the seats and the layout of the interior contribute to a sense of spaciousness. Even with a full load of passengers, everyone should be able to travel in relative comfort. The focus on providing a comfortable ride extends beyond the seats; the suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, which also adds to the overall comfort. This combination of space and comfort makes the 2017 Altima 3.5 SL a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're driving or riding as a passenger. You can definitely feel the effort that went into making it a comfortable experience.

Infotainment and Technology Features

Alright, let’s get into the tech! The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL is equipped with a decent array of infotainment and technology features that were pretty up-to-date for its time. The centerpiece of the system is a touchscreen display. It's the hub for most of the car's functions, including audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with a straightforward interface that doesn’t require a ton of learning. You can easily access various features without getting distracted. The infotainment system supports features like Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music from your phone and make hands-free calls. This is a must-have in any modern car. The system also includes a USB port, so you can charge your devices and play music from a flash drive. Some models might come with a premium audio system, which delivers better sound quality throughout the cabin. This upgrade can really enhance the driving experience, especially if you enjoy listening to music or podcasts.

Navigation is typically included in the 3.5 SL trim, so you won't have to rely on your phone for directions. The navigation system provides clear and accurate directions. It also includes useful features like traffic updates, so you can avoid congestion. The system’s voice control feature is also quite useful. You can use voice commands to control various functions, like making calls or changing the radio station, without taking your hands off the wheel. The Altima also includes a rearview camera, which is a huge help when parking and reversing. This safety feature makes it easier to navigate tight spaces and reduces the risk of accidents. Some models might also feature other advanced safety technologies, like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning. These features add an extra layer of safety and can help to prevent accidents. The Altima 3.5 SL includes a keyless entry and push-button start system. This adds convenience to your daily routine, as you don't have to fumble with keys. The technology features in the 2017 Altima 3.5 SL are designed to enhance the driving experience. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the inclusion of navigation and advanced safety features makes the car a practical and safe choice. These features create a more connected and secure driving experience.

Storage and Practicality

Let’s chat about storage, because it's the little things that make a big difference in everyday life! The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL does a pretty good job in terms of storage and practicality. You've got a decent-sized center console with enough room for your phone, wallet, and other small items. It's well-placed, so everything is within easy reach. The door pockets are also generously sized, which is great for storing bottles, maps, or any other essentials. You'll find a glove compartment that offers a good amount of space to store documents, gloves, or anything else you need to keep handy. Nissan has clearly thought about making the most of the available space. The cupholders are well-placed and designed to accommodate various sizes of cups and bottles. You won't have to worry about your drink spilling while you're driving.

In terms of cargo space, the Altima's trunk is pretty spacious. It offers plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or any other items you need to transport. The trunk opening is also wide, making it easy to load and unload items. The rear seats can be folded down, which creates even more cargo space. This is a huge plus if you need to transport larger items. The split-folding rear seats provide flexibility, so you can accommodate both passengers and cargo as needed. The car is designed to be practical for everyday use. The thoughtful placement of storage compartments and the generous trunk space make it easy to manage your belongings. The overall design prioritizes convenience and ease of use. You don't have to worry about struggling to fit everything you need. The well-designed interior ensures you have enough space for all your essentials, both inside the cabin and in the trunk. The emphasis on practicality makes the Altima a great choice for families, commuters, and anyone who values convenience. They made sure to include features that make life easier.

Driving Experience and Ergonomics

Okay, let’s get into the driving experience and ergonomics! The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL offers a driving experience that is smooth and comfortable, with a focus on ease of use and practicality. The seats, as we mentioned earlier, are supportive and comfortable, which is a major factor in making those longer drives enjoyable. The driver's seat comes with power adjustments, including lumbar support, to help you find the perfect driving position. You can really dial in the ideal settings to ensure you are comfortable. The steering wheel is well-positioned and feels good in your hands. The controls are easy to reach and operate, which is critical. The dashboard and instrument panel are logically laid out, with clear gauges and displays. You don't have to fumble around to find what you need.

The Altima 3.5 SL comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributes to a smooth and seamless driving experience. The CVT helps to optimize fuel efficiency. The engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving, with responsive acceleration. The ride quality is comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and handling. It’s not a sports car, but it’s still enjoyable to drive. The visibility is good, with large windows and well-placed mirrors. You can see clearly, which is important for safety. The controls, like the infotainment system and climate control, are easy to use. The designers clearly prioritized a driver-friendly environment. The focus on ergonomics, combined with the comfortable seats and smooth ride, makes the Altima 3.5 SL a great car for both commuting and longer trips. The overall driving experience is designed to be user-friendly and stress-free. From the seating position to the placement of the controls, everything is designed to make the driving experience as pleasant as possible. The Altima 3.5 SL provides a comfortable and convenient experience on the road.

Final Thoughts

So, what's the verdict? The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL is a solid choice if you’re looking for a comfortable, well-equipped mid-size sedan. The interior is a strong point, with its leather seats, soft-touch materials, and user-friendly technology. It's a great car if you value comfort, space, and practicality. It's also a reliable choice, known for its dependability. The combination of features and a reasonable price point made it a popular option at the time. It offers a good balance of luxury and practicality. The Altima 3.5 SL is still a good buy, even in the used car market. If you are in the market for a comfortable sedan with a decent amount of features, the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 SL is definitely worth checking out! You'll find that it offers a very pleasant driving experience. They created a car that is both comfortable and practical. Consider it if you're looking for a reliable and enjoyable vehicle.