Nissan's 2011 Quest minivan is somewhat of a reversal for Nissan. The previous Quest was sort the minivan for those who would rather not have a minivan, the new Quest is more like the ultimate, typical minvan - boxy, functional and luxurious.
The 2011 Quest is availble in four trim levels - S, SV, SL and luxury LE. The base S model is about $28,000 but even that version includes remote keyless entry and push button start and a 260 hp, 3.5L V6. The top of the line LE model is priced at about $42,000 and includes a 13-speaker Bose sound system, navigation, rear parking camera and 18-inch wheels. But you don't have to pay for the LE to get a decent amount of luxury. The $35,000 SL still includes heated leather seats plus a color display screen for audio and vehicle stats. All Quest minivans get the same 3.5L engine and CVT- there's no four cylinder version like the base Toyota Sienna.
There is a noticable difference in driving dynamic between vans like the Honda Odyssey and the Nissan Quest. The Honda feels tighter and a little sportier - is that a good thing in a minivan? Maybe not, it just depends on the buyer. The Nissan Quest feels like a plusher, more luxurious van overall. The interior of the Nissan is more inviting and that soft ride works very well on the highway and surface streets.
Toyota's new Sienna is clearly in the game too - for 2011 the three best minivans are all new. Honda, Nissan and Toyota each have an all new van and the Kia Sedona is due for an update. It's hard to say which is the best, all three are so good the choice likely comes down to personal taste.
Brian Moody for Car Concerns Radio
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