The Nissan Quest has been Nissan Motors' answer to the Honda Odyssey and the Dodge Grand Caravan for several years. For the 2009 model year, the minivan comes to the dealer lot with very minimal changes, and the distinct possibility that this is the last year the vehicle will be produced. The Nissan Quest is available in four different flavors, including the 3.5, 3.5 S, 3.5 SL and the decked out 3.5 SE. All Nissan Quest models make use of the same engine and transmission configuration, utilizing a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 235 hp, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
The Quest offers bucket seats in the front, as well as folding bucket seats for the second row. The third row seating is via a bench seat, designed to fold into a spot in the floor to help increase storage space. Upgraded features for the 2009 Nissan Quest include a navigations system, a rearview camera, DVD entertainment system, power adjustable pedals and Nissan's SkyView roof, as well as a wireless cell phone system designed for hands free operation.
2009 Nissan Quest Performance
The 2009 Nissan Quest offers plenty of power from a stop and doesn't stint on passing performance, either. The minivan is quite capable of making highway driving enjoyable, as well as comfortable, and the transmission features some of the smoothest shifting to be found, with very little downshift harshness during passing and acceleration. For fuel economy, the Quest comes in somewhere in the middle of the pack, with an average of 21 mpg, though more can be attained with more highway driving.
The ride quality of the Nissan Quest is typical of modern minivans, with a bit of side-to-side pitch. However, the overall ride quality is excellent, with plenty of bump absorption and a smooth ride. Larger wheels (the 17's available with the SE) provide a bit of a harsher jolt than the 16-inch wheels on other models. One drawback of the Quest is its sheer size. Since it is relatively large for a minivan, maneuvering it in tight, urban conditions can be somewhat difficult. The rearview camera can certainly be an aid in this area. Steering on the van is quite responsive though, and the vehicle enjoys excellent grip on the road, with very little body lean during turns.
Finally, for quietness, there are few other minivans on the road that can compare to the Quest. Drivers will notice a small amount of road noise at highway speeds, but this is never overwhelming, the way it is with several other minivans.
2009 Nissan Quest Interior
The 2009 Nissan Quest gets high points for interior quality, which features plenty of refined textures, nice colors and quality fabrics. The blend of plastic and padded surfaces is a nice departure from other minivans on the market. All gauges are located in a central location, providing the driver with easy access to required information during driving. However, some controls can be difficult to access and/or read. One nice feature of the minivan is that the navigation system does not absorb any of the climate controls or audio controls, keeping operation smooth.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, providing adjustable lumbar support for enjoyment on long rides. There is also plenty of headroom and foot room, though taller drivers and passengers may find the legroom a bit pinched. Visibility is blocked in the rear by headrests, but is otherwise excellent throughout the van. The second and third rows are easily able to accommodate an adult without difficulty. The seats do provide plenty of comfort for the lower back, as well as decent thigh support for long drives; the rear is no longer the domain of kids only.
The storage space on the Quest is decent; though folding the rear seat into the floor increases this by a considerable amount. The second row seats also fold, but they do not fold completely flat to the floor, reducing storage by a fraction. You will also find plenty of interior storage compartments scattered around the interior for your convenience.
2009 Nissan Quest Safety Features
The Quest features several safety devices, including front seat active head restraints, dual front airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, side curtain airbags, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes and a brake assist system.
Summary
The 2009 Nissan Quest may be the last of its line, but it is an excellent vehicle if you want plenty of power, space and safety features. With the available extras like the navigation system and the DVD entertainment system, the entire family will have perks they love.