The Nissan Quest for 2011

All of a sudden, minivans are hot again, and the all-new 2011 Nissan Quest brings innovation and an updated skill set to the forefront. A stylish exterior design gives way to high-tech features inside that make every day tasks easier.

The seven-passenger Nissan Quest (MSRP starting at $27,750) enters 2011 with four comprehensively equipped trim levels: S, SV, SL and LE. Standard features start with one-touch power-sliding doors on both sides, a feature you have to go up one trim level and spend $30,950 to get in a Honda Odyssey. The power doors are so easy to use thanks to Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition, which is a standard feature. A power rear liftgate is standard equipment on Quest SL and LE trim levels. For big loads, the second- and third-row seats have a standard quick-release function and fold flat, opening up 108.4 cubic feet of cargo space. LE models can also be equipped with an available power-operated third-row seatback as well. With all rows of seats in use, there's 37.1 cubic feet of cargo space and a covered Permanent Rear Storage Well. Passenger comfort is enhanced by an available Dual Opening Glass Moonroof, which lets rear passengers enjoy

the same fresh breeze that front occupants get. Standard power windows in the sliding doors are another way the Quest attends to the comfort of passengers. Speaking of comfort, when it's chilly out, front seat passengers will appreciate the available Quick Comfort staged heating system. A console between the second-row seats is removable, and offers cupholders when installed.

Nissan has carefully paid attention to small details with the 2011 Quest. The standard second-row captains’ chairs and split third-row bench seats are "theater style," that is, they're raised up above the first row to give a better view outward. An 11-inch LCD monitor is available as part of an upgraded entertainment system that's standard on Quest LE models. The available (standard on LE) Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System’s eight-inch touchscreen makes interaction with vehicle functions and 9.3GB Music Box hard drive clear and easy. Real-time traffic and weather information is available from XM NavTraffic and NavWeather functions as well.

The standard audio system in the Quest S offers an in-dash six-CD changer and an auxiliary audio input jack. The SV’s premium audio system includes a 4.3-inch color display and a USB port, as well as Bluetooth® Hands-Free phone. A Bose Premium audio system with CD/DVD, 13 speakers and flash memory input is optional for Quest SL models, and standard on the Quest LE. The Bose system's dual subwoofers and XM Satellite Radio capability can keep the music pumping from coast to coast, and SL and LE Quests also have a USB/iPod port standard.

The Quest's quest is to take care of passengers, and Nissan has designed in many features and touches to make that easy. SV and above trim levels are equipped with a wide-angle Conversation Mirror which folds down from the ceiling and allows drivers to see and communicate easily with passengers in the second and third rows without turning around, increasing safety by reducing distraction. SV, SL and LE Quests also get a standard RearView Monitor to display objects behind the vehicle when the gearshift is in reverse. Available Blind Spot Warning (a Nissan first) helps keep an eye on vehicles around the Quest.

The standard Advanced Climate Control System in Quest LE models uses a Plasmacluster to purify the air and a Grape Polyphenol filter with auto recirculation control to effectively trap particles so tiny that they can't be seen with the naked eye. The system scrubs allergens and odors out of the Quest's interior, and it uses sensors to detect outside contaminants and automatically switch the system into recirculation mode, closing the intake to keep exhaust fumes or offensive odors out. Quest S models use a manual temperature control system, and Quest SV, SL and LE carry a standard Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system.

Another Quest innovation is the Easy Fill Tire Alert, which works as part of the standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The Easy Fill system lets you know when you've filled the tire to the correct inflation pressure by a quick blip of the horn. No more having to fumble for a tire gauge that may or may not be accurate.

All Quest models are easy to drive with a tight turning radius and outward visibility enhanced by front triangle windows. Nissan's VQ 3.5-liter V6 engine provides 260 hp and 240 lb/ft of torque and returns fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway. Long known for its energetic performance, the V6 is responsive and sporty, and Nissan's XTronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a smooth partner. Vehicle Dynamic Control stability control is standard, as is Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Traction Control. Nissan's Advanced Air Bag System uses two-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact bags in the front seats and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags.

The 2011 Nissan Quest is a stylish, family-friendly minivan that doesn't leave driving enthusiasts out in the cold. With its full selection of forward-thinking features and equipment, the 2011 Quest is likely to win you over.