Hey guys, let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum, shall we? If you're on the hunt for a sedan that blends sporty performance with a serious dose of luxury, this ride might just be your jam. Nissan really went all out with the Maxima, positioning it as their "four-door sports car," and the Platinum trim is the cherry on top, packing all the premium features you could ask for. We're talking about a car that feels more upscale than its price tag might suggest, making it a compelling option in the crowded sedan market. This isn't just any old commuter car; it's designed to make you feel special every time you slide behind the wheel. From its aggressive styling to its surprisingly powerful V6 engine, the 2017 Maxima Platinum aims to deliver a driving experience that's both exhilarating and comfortable. So, buckle up as we explore what makes this particular Maxima trim a standout choice for discerning drivers.

Engine and Performance: More Than Just Looks

When we talk about the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum, the first thing that should grab your attention is its powertrain. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a healthy 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. This isn't just for show, guys; it gives the Maxima a genuine pep in its step. Paired with Nissan's Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the power delivery is surprisingly smooth, although some enthusiasts might miss the direct engagement of a traditional automatic. However, Nissan has tuned this CVT to mimic a traditional geared transmission, offering simulated shift points that add a bit of sportiness to the equation. The result is a sedan that can accelerate with confidence, merging onto highways and passing slower traffic with ease. The handling is also noteworthy. The Maxima Platinum features a sport-tuned suspension that, combined with its relatively low center of gravity, provides a planted and agile feel around corners. While it's not a track-ready sports car, it certainly lives up to Nissan's "four-door sports car" marketing. The steering is responsive, offering good feedback, and the brakes are firm and reassuring. For daily driving, the suspension strikes a good balance between sporty stiffness and everyday comfort, soaking up road imperfections without feeling harsh. You get that engaging driving dynamic without sacrificing too much of the plush ride expected from a luxury-oriented sedan. The different drive modes – Sport, Normal, and Comfort – allow you to tailor the car's behavior to your mood or the driving conditions, further enhancing its versatility. In Sport mode, the throttle response sharpens, the transmission holds gears longer, and the steering becomes heavier, really dialing up the performance feel. It’s this blend of power, responsive handling, and adaptable driving modes that truly sets the 2017 Maxima Platinum apart.

Interior Comfort and Technology: The Platinum Treatment

Stepping inside the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum is where you really understand what the "Platinum" designation means. Nissan has crafted an interior that rivals some luxury brands, focusing on premium materials and thoughtful design. The first thing you'll likely notice are the Zero Gravity front seats. Inspired by NASA technology, these seats are designed to reduce physical stress and fatigue, making long drives feel significantly more comfortable. They’re heated and cooled, which is a huge plus, and the driver's seat offers excellent bolstering and support. The overall cabin ambiance is refined, with soft-touch materials used liberally throughout. You'll find tasteful stitching, elegant trim accents (like the available Alcantara or premium wood-look trim), and a general sense of high quality that permeates the space. The dashboard is driver-focused, with controls angled towards the driver for easy access. Nissan has integrated a good amount of technology here, too. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that’s responsive and relatively intuitive to use. It includes standard features like Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and voice recognition. For 2017, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added, making smartphone integration seamless – a big win for tech-savvy buyers. The navigation system is generally easy to operate, and the premium Bose audio system delivers crisp, clear sound, immersing you in your favorite tunes. Beyond the infotainment, the Platinum trim spoils you with features like a panoramic sunroof, ambient interior lighting, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and a universal transceiver for garage door opening. The rear seats are also comfortable, offering decent legroom and headroom for the class, though, like most sedans, the middle seat is best suited for shorter journeys. The trunk space is adequate for daily needs, but it’s not the largest in its segment. Still, the focus here is clearly on the front occupants and the premium experience they receive. The quietness of the cabin, thanks to good sound insulation, further enhances the feeling of luxury and refinement, allowing you to enjoy conversations or the premium audio system without intrusive road or wind noise. It’s a sophisticated environment designed to make every journey a pleasure.

Exterior Design: Aggressive and Stylish

Let's talk looks, because the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum is undeniably a head-turner. Nissan designers really pushed the envelope with this generation of the Maxima, giving it a bold and aggressive stance that sets it apart from more conservative sedans. The exterior styling is characterized by its dramatic character lines, a sleek, sloping roofline that hints at its sporty intentions, and a distinctive V-motion grille up front. The headlights are sharp and modern, often featuring LED accents, giving the car a piercing gaze. The overall profile is low and wide, contributing to its athletic appearance. The Platinum trim specifically adds some premium touches that elevate its curb appeal even further. Think 19-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, chrome accents, and LED signature lighting. The sculpted body panels are designed to catch the light and create dynamic shadows, giving the Maxima a sense of movement even when it's standing still. The rear of the car is equally striking, with a sculpted trunk lid, distinctive taillights that echo the front headlight design, and dual exhaust finishers that reinforce its performance-oriented nature. Compared to rivals that often play it safe with their styling, the 2017 Maxima Platinum opts for a more daring and expressive aesthetic. This is a car that doesn't blend into the background; it makes a statement. Whether you appreciate its aggressive lines or find them a bit too much, there's no denying it has a strong visual presence. The color palette offered also tends to include shades that enhance its sporty character, further emphasizing its design. It’s a cohesive look that successfully blends the elegance expected of a premium sedan with the raw energy of a sports car, making it a truly distinctive option in its class. This bold design is a significant part of its appeal, attracting buyers who want a car that reflects their own dynamic personality.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind

When you're looking at a premium sedan like the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum, safety is, naturally, a top priority. Nissan equipped this generation of the Maxima with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers. In terms of passive safety, it boasts a strong unibody construction designed to absorb and dissipate crash energy, along with a full array of airbags strategically placed throughout the cabin. But where the Platinum trim really shines is in its active safety and driver-assistance technologies. Many of these are standard or available on the Platinum, offering an extra layer of security and convenience. You'll find features like a standard rearview camera, which is incredibly helpful for parking and backing up. Moving up, you can often find predictive forward collision warning (PFCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB). These systems are designed to help prevent accidents before they even happen. The PFCW can actually detect a vehicle two cars ahead, giving you earlier warning of a potential hazard. The AEB system can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react in time. Additionally, many models come equipped with blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA). The BSW alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, a crucial feature for safe lane changes, while the RCTA warns you of approaching traffic when you're backing out of a parking spot. Lane departure warning (LDW) and intelligent lane intervention (ILI) are also available, helping to keep you centered in your lane on longer journeys. Some Maximas might even offer adaptive cruise control (ACC), which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a set distance from the car ahead. These advanced systems aren't just buzzwords; they actively work to enhance your awareness and reduce the risk of accidents, providing significant peace of mind, especially on the highway or in heavy traffic. The inclusion of these technologies really rounds out the premium experience of the 2017 Maxima Platinum, making it a safe and confident choice for families and individuals alike.

Who is the 2017 Maxima Platinum For?

The 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum isn't for everyone, and that's okay. It carves out a specific niche for buyers who want a bit more flair and sportiness than a typical mid-size sedan but don't necessarily want to step up to a full-blown luxury brand or a high-performance sports car. If you're someone who appreciates bold styling and wants your car to make a statement, this Maxima definitely delivers. It's also perfect for the driver who enjoys a more engaging driving experience – the responsive V6 and sport-tuned suspension mean it's more fun to drive than many of its competitors. The comfortable and tech-laden interior, especially the Zero Gravity seats and premium sound system, makes it ideal for those who spend a lot of time on the road or simply value a refined and comfortable cabin environment. Think of it as a car for the discerning commuter who wants a bit of excitement in their daily drive. It appeals to those who are looking for a good balance of performance, luxury, and technology without breaking the bank compared to traditional luxury marques. It's a smart choice for someone who might have previously considered cars like the Toyota Avalon or a lower-trim Lexus ES but wants something with a bit more 'oomph' and a sportier edge. Essentially, if you want a sedan that feels special, performs well, looks distinctive, and is packed with features, the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum should absolutely be on your radar. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a blend of practicality and passion in their automotive choice.

Final Thoughts: A Sporty, Luxurious Sedan Value

So, to wrap things up, the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum really stands out as a compelling option in the large sedan segment. It successfully bridges the gap between a mainstream sedan and a luxury vehicle, offering a blend of sporty performance, upscale interior appointments, and cutting-edge technology that’s hard to beat for the price. The powerful V6 engine ensures that driving is never dull, while the refined suspension and steering provide a confident and engaging experience on the road. Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of comfort and technology, with those incredible Zero Gravity seats and a user-friendly infotainment system. Plus, the bold exterior design ensures you won't be blending in with the crowd. While it might not have the badge cachet of some European luxury brands, the Maxima Platinum delivers a premium experience that often punches above its weight class. It’s a car that makes you feel good every time you get behind the wheel, whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a road trip. For anyone seeking a sedan that offers excitement without sacrificing comfort and luxury, the 2017 Nissan Maxima Platinum is definitely worth a serious look. It represents excellent value, providing a near-luxury experience with a sporty soul. Definitely give it a test drive if you get the chance; you might just be surprised at how much car you get for your money. It’s a testament to Nissan’s ability to create vehicles that are both practical and profoundly enjoyable to own and drive.