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Nissan Quest

Pros

Lively engine/transmission combo within its class
Reviewer-favorite optional SkyView roof

Overview

For 2008, the exterior and interior of the Nissan Quest have been updated. It remains available in four models: base, S, SL, and SE. Exterior updates include a new grille and front bumper fascia, new rear taillight assembly and new 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, the Quest receives a redesigned instrument panel that places the gauges directly in front of the driver. All models are powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 235 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a revised five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with a wider gear range for increased acceleration. New optional equipment includes Bluetooth hand-free phone system, larger 8-inch LCD monitors with the DVD entertainment system, and a rear view camera monitoring system. The Nissan Quest was last redesigned in 2004 and the next major change is expected in 2010.


INTELLICHOICE BEST IN CLASS WINNER - LOWEST MAINTENANCE COSTS 2007

Pros

Minivans typically concentrate on practicality, safety, and reliability; Nissan's 2008 Quest stands apart from the crowd by virtue of its looks. The Quest's 235-horsepower V6 is one of the strongest powerplants in its class, and driving dynamics are definitely better than most of its competitors.

Model Highlights

If you are looking for a minivan with all the safety and people-moving practicality but with unique styling, then look no further than the 2008 Nissan Quest. A number of design cues separate the Quest from the rest of the minivans on the market, including its long shoulder lines and large incorporated headlights. The interior also shows the Nissan designers' willingness to be different. Case in point is the center stack, with the easy-to-reach shift lever sprouting from the console. Like a number of Nissan's products, the Quest has a horsepower rating that is near the top of its segment. The 235-horsepower 3.5L V6 is shared with the Maxima and Altima, and is impressive for its smoothness and torqueiness. A five-speed automatic is standard across the board. The driving experience is ahead of other minivans, with the Quest's crisper feel and smooth ride. The base Quest comes well equipped with anti-lock brakes, traction control, speed-sensitive wipers, front and rear air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control, an alarm system, and power mirrors, locks, and windows. The S trim adds power sliding doors, as well as a power liftgate. A dash-mounted entertainment system and a tow package are optional on both of these trims. The SL gets 16-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a power driver's seat and adjustable pedals, HomeLink, auto on/off headlights, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, among other items. The top-level SE upgrades wheels to 17-inch alloys, and adds a host of luxury items. The popular SkyView panoramic glass-paneled roof is added, as are heated seats, fog lamps, overhead storage, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, and a Bose audio system that is one of the best found in a minivan today. The SkyView roof can be added to the SL, as can a number of other items found standard on the SE. Both of the up-market trims can order a navigation system or tow package, and the SE can also add a two-screen entertainment system to keep back-seat riders occupied.

Model News

Reintroduced in 2004 as Nissan's sole entry in the minivan market, the Quest undergoes few changes for 2008. On the base trim, an in-cabin filter is now standard as well as luggage roof rails. The S trim standard equipment was reshuffled a bit for 2008; rear back-up sonar is now included in the Driver's Package instead of being standard. On the SL trim, the headlights gain automatic on/off function, and audio controls are now mounted on the steering wheel, while the air conditioning system is upgraded to an automatic dual-zone setup. On the top of the line SE trim, Bluetooth is now standard equipment.

Value Writeup

Standout styling and flashy interior; plenty of power; long list of standard equipment