Powertrains for the 2009 Nissan Quest trim levels are identical from the base model to the more heavily-equipped SE trimmed version. Starting with the continuing to use of Nissan's multi-purpose VQ35DE V6 engine, 235 horsepower excels in distinguishing this vehicle from just an ample people mover. Employing both Nissan's Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System as well as Variable Intake System, the 3.5 liter V6's compression process is carefully timed throughout the engine's power band. Front-wheel driven, the Nissan Quest is moved through a five-speed automatic transaxle with overdrive. Merging the mechanically sound engine and transmission, the 2009 Nissan Quest musters 16 miles city per gallon of gas or 24 miles in straight highway driving. With combined fuel economy equating to an even 20 miles per gallon, the Nissan Quest fuel mileage is typical of current minivan including adversaries Honda Odyssey and the 4 liter engined Dodge Grand Caravan.
Able to travel a minimum distance of 322 miles between filling up the 20.1 gallon fuel tank, accounting for annual fuel cost of the Nissan Quest depends on whether or not the motorist opts to follow Nissan's recommended use of premium gasoline. Based on 15,000 miles per year of traveling, the differences in price for premium to regular gasoline could result in almost $180 more spent at the gas pumps. Usage of regular gasoline, deemed acceptable for daily in the Quest thanks to an adaptive engine computer, causes only a five horsepower drop on the Quest.