The 2012 Nissan Quest offers a sleek but functional design. Reviewers have praised its quiet and smooth ride, its sharp steering and handling, and fold-flat second-row seats; but the reduced storage space compared to competitors is a sticking point for the Quest. This 7-passenger vehicle comes in four trim levels, with base prices ranging from $27,750 to $41,350.
Engine, Drivetrain and Suspension Specifications
All models are front-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a Continuously Variable Transmission. Independent suspension is used in front and rear; the former is strut-type with stabilizer bars, while the rear uses multi-link. Fuel economy is 19 mpg city/24 highway.
Exterior
The base S model comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, power side mirrors, and dual sliding rear doors. The next model up, the SV, includes these features plus 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, power sliding side doors with an auto-reverse function, and fog lights. Upgrading to the SL gains 18-inch aluminum wheels, automatic headlights, power liftgate, roof rack side rails, and heated side mirrors with turn signals. Finally, the high-end LE trim adds xenon headlights and side mirrors that automatically tilt when in reverse gear. A dual opening moonroof is optional on the SL and LE.
Interior
Interestingly, the Quest’s third-row seats do not fold down into the floor like competing minivans; instead, both the second- and third-row seats fold forward and flat to create a lengthy load floor.
Standard features on the S trim include Intelligent Key with push button ignition, tilt/telescoping steering column, speed-sensitive windshield wipers, second-row sliding and reclining captain’s chairs that fold flat, split fold-flat bench seat in the third row with quick release folding seatbacks, and a second-row center console with DVD storage and cup holders and which can be removed easily. The SV provides these features plus a rearview monitor, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The SL adds HomeLink, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with digital compass, power driver’s seat with power adjustable lumbar support, leather seats, and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line LE adds in a Blind Spot Warning System, voice-activated navigation system, XM NavWeather and NavTraffic, 120-volt AC power outlet, power front passenger seat, driver’s seat memory, and power-return third-row seat.
Entertainment Options
The basic S model uses an in-dash 6-CD audio system with four speakers, MP3 playback capability, and auxiliary input jack. The SV gets a premium audio system with six speakers, 4.3″ color display, satellite radio, speed-sensitive volume control, USB connection for iPod, and steering-wheel mounted controls. The SL offers optional upgrades to a digital Bose system with 13 speakers or a DVD entertainment package with auto-brightness and dual media playback capability. And the LE features as standard the SL’s optional upgrades, plus streaming audio over Bluetooth.
Safety
All Quests incorporate all the safety devices, such as Nissan’s Advanced Air Bag System, front seat side-mounted air bags, three-row curtain air bags, LATCH system, traction control, Vehicle Dynamic Control, and tire pressure monitoring system. The IIHS award the 2012 Quest with top “Good” ratings on the frontal offset and side impact tests and an “Average” rating on the roof strength test. NHTSA test results are not available.
The automotive press notes that the Quest drives pleasantly with a quiet cabin, compliant suspension, precise steering, and adequately powered engine. The CVT feels much smoother than traditional transmission gear shifts, and the overall feel is almost sporty when navigating curves. Overall, the Quest is a worthy contender for those who do not need maximum cargo space.
Image Credit: Nissan News
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