Minivans aren't generally praised for their forward-looking design qualities. Nissan’s Quest is an exception, striving to make a contemporary styling statement with its pillarless greenhouse and nose-toward-the-ground profile. Underneath that rather distinctive exterior, the Quest is quite a capable family hauler with a relaxing interior. Even more surprising, you get uncommonly good handling for the minivan class.
Essentially a carryover for the 2016 model year, the Quest does get an equipment revision. Roof rails now are standard on SV trim level. Estimated fuel economy has improved by 1 mpg.
Bodywork is just the beginning. The Quest's unique design carries over to its interior, which features standard second-row captain's chairs and a removable console between the two. Both the second-row chairs and the third-row bench flip forward to provide a flat load space. While this easy versatility cuts into cargo capacity to a degree, you get 108 cubic feet of space, without ever removing and stowing any seats. A rear storage well is always available.
Every Quest holds a 260-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). When properly equipped, a Quest can tow up to 3,500 pounds -- quite a respectable figure for any front-drive vehicle. Fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway (23 mpg combined).
With its four trim levels, the Quest covers a broad span of market territory:
Covers all the basics, such as power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, pushbutton start, a front console, power mirrors, and cruise control. Four-speaker audio includes a CD player. The Quest S rolls on 16-inch steel wheels.
Adds an array of popular features, including power sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, iPod/USB connections, Bluetooth phone, satellite radio, foglamps, roof rails, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Six-speaker audio includes a five-inch display. An available Leather package includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power driver’s seat. You can also add a rear DVD entertainment system.
Comes with the Leather package standard, plus a power liftgate, heated front seats, power driver’s seat, and automatic headlights. Outside, the SL gets heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, and 18-inch wheels. A dual-panel sunroof becomes available at this trim level.
Builds on the SL with navigation, surround-view cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and a 13-speaker Bose surround-sound system with eight-inch display. The DVD entertainment system comes standard. Other additions include a driver’s memory, power passenger seat, one-touch folding third row with power return, rear sunshades, and an upgraded air filtration system.
Although the Quest S is attractively priced at $27,430 (including destination charge), it isn't eligible for any options. The midlevel SV and SL offer everything most families need in a minivan. Luxurious Platinum trim strives to ensure that all passengers will have an enjoyable ride, but we don't think that's enough to justify its $44,080 price.
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