2004 Nissan Quest

Inside, the driver faces a low dashboard, featuring a center-mounted tachometer and speedometer, for appealing visibility.

Inside, the driver faces a low dashboard for appealing visibility and enjoys a high "command" seating position, but must look toward the center to see the instrument cluster. The center-mounted tachometer and speedometer are easy enough to read after a short "learning curve," but tend to defy notice at a quick glance. Other gauges are LED units, not so easy to discern. A video screen farther to the right displays the trip odometer and other travel details, but it's some distance from the driver's eyes.


Overhead, a 4-panel Skyview Roof, as in the 2004 Maxima sedan, can enhance the airy feeling of the interior, though not dramatically so. Handy innovations include a steering-column note clip and a kid-sized assist grip. The Bose 10-speaker, 265-watt audio system is said to be a segment "first." DVD-based video entertainment systems are offered, with either one or two pull-down screens flanking the full-length overhead console.


Nissan's 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 240 horsepower and 242 lb.-ft. of torque. The S and SL editions use a 4-speed automatic transmission, but the top-of-the-line SE gets a 5-speed unit, along with 17-inch wheels and Vehicle Dynamic Control. Standard tires on other models are 16-inch size. All-disc antilock braking, traction control and a tire-pressure monitor are standard. All Quests have a fully independent suspension and, on the safety side, triple-row side-curtain airbags.

A 4-panel Skyview Roof enhances the airy feeling for passengers, but drivers may most enjoy the 3.5-liter, 240-hp V-6.

Ride, handling and performance stand out in the Quest, and all are somewhat unexpected for a minivan. Nissan's minivan feels excellent on the highway, taking even fairly rough pavement in stride, courtesy of the taut but responsive suspension. Ordinary surface imperfections are significantly softened, though big bumps can produce substantial banging down below. Although the Quest is not devoid of body lean in curves, it's tightly controlled with quick and positive recovery. Quests are highly stable and secure on the highway. A distinctly sporty steering feel is part of the appeal, requiring a bit of effort but yielding accurate responses—unlike a typical minivan. Energetic response from the V-6 is coupled with automatic-transmission reactions that are smooth and easy. Expect no shortage of confidence for passing or merging.


While anticipating sales to older "empty-nesters," Nissan primarily targets professional women in the 35-40 age group, with young children. Honda's Odyssey is the main rival, along with the Chrysler Town & Country. Nissan's Quest goes on sale in July. (www.nissan.com)