Parents with large broods will appreciate the rear sliding doors, which open wider than those of any competitor, and both the second and third-row seats fold down for extra cargo room. Other nice features include rear air conditioning and heating (dual-zone automatic climate control is optional), and an available full-length rear overhead console to help passengers in the back with additional storage bins. Side curtain-type airbags are installed on all three seat rows.
The Quest interior is roomy and flexible, although the third row seating, for some reason known only to Quest designers, doesn't allow split-folding, a feature standard on most competitors. Cargo space maxes out at 149 cubic feet. Drivers will either love or hate the space-age instrument console mounted between the front seats; some might find the display too busy to be easily used while driving; others will feel they're in the cockpit of a jetliner. Most people will love the Skyview windows, essentially five separate windows set into the rear of the roof, giving the back area a roomy, well-lit feel.
The powerplant is a 3.5-liter V6, which provides 240 horsepower, and gives the vehicle responsive pickup and acceleration. The four-speed automatic model tends to be a bit sluggish; for better response, we recommend the five-speed version that comes with the SL and SE models. However, you pay for this improvement in miles per gallon; the four-speed boasts EPA estimates of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway; the five-speed offers 18 city, 25 highway, a small difference that could add up over time.
In terms of safety, the Quest has met with success. Government crash tests awarded the vehicle a perfect five stars on all tests run. IIHS-run tests involving frontal offset crashes resulted in the Quest receiving a "Good", the best possible rating. Standard safety features include 4-hweel antilock brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and traction control, BrakeAssist, and full-length side curtain-type airbags.
Overall, the Nissan Quest will appeal to minivan drivers tired of the same old minivan feel, but for overall quality, stability and road-worthiness, Nissan is still behind the curve to Honda and Toyota .
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