The fourth-generation 2015 Nissan Quest continues to up the “cool” factor for soccer moms and hauling commuters alike. Feature-packed and exquisitely sporting, the Quest receives only minute feature changes for 2015.
Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are known for having a strange feel when driving, but Nissan has tried to alleviate that issue this year with its new D-Step shift logic for the Quest minivan. Gone is the disconnected feeling of having no shift points, as shift points can now be felt as you accelerate up to speed. This also gives a slight boost to fuel efficiency as well, which is a great perk for those who want to gain a few more miles out of the tank.
As the saying goes, bigger is usually better. So for all Quest trims, a highly visible, 5-inch color audio system display is now included for your entertainment pleasure, replacing the smaller 4.3-inch screen. This addresses the complaint of the old screen being hard to see and use in past models.
The familiar S, SV, and SL trims are still available, and top-of-the-line LE models (though now renamed Platinum) have all of the creature comforts you would expect in a premium trim. But, Platinum also now has moving-object detection for Nissan’s Around View Monitor. Minivans aren’t known for their strong driver visibility, so this will assist you in safely navigating tight spaces and backing into the garage.
Many front-wheel-drive (FWD) minivans seem underpowered, for the most part. But all 6 cylinders of the award-winning VQ-series 3.5-liter engine will astound you, making a powerful 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. It has plenty of get-up-and-go available for any possible driving demand, easily reaching highway cruising speed in just under 8 seconds.
Regardless of all that gusto, gas mileage doesn’t suffer as much as you may think. Even with a curb weight of roughly 4,350 pounds, fuel economy of 20 mpg city/27 highway can be achieved. That's maybe not exceptional for this type of vehicle, but having this much power will also allow you to tow up to 3,500 pounds with ease. It’s basically a heavy-duty truck wrapped up as a minivan with better fuel economy.
Although not as roomy as its competitors, the Quest still easily seats 7 passengers. Front passengers will enjoy nearly 44 inches of leg room, as well as ample head and shoulder room. For your cargo needs, you have 25.7 cubes in the rear with all seats in place; however some seats do not fold away, nor can they be removed as in some other minivans. But, you can achieve a maximum cargo space of 108.4 cubic feet by rolling up both the second- and third-row seats. Moving large objects might become difficult, though, since the side doors unfortunately do not offer a particularly wide opening.
Response and handling are where the Quest really shines. Handling more like a car than a minivan, Nissan’s D-Platform provides an excellent foundation for sharp, responsive feel and a smooth, pleasing ride. Road noise is kept to a minimum, so you won’t have to turn up your radio to drown out the droning sound of the pavement. The front strut and independent rear suspension harmoniously function to make the Quest one of the best riding minivans on the market.
The 2015 Nissan Quest is a minivan well-suited for any situation. Its unique wraparound rear glass gives a real sense of individualism and style in a world saturated with crossover choices. There is even an available moonroof to accent the airy, open feel of the cabin.
Luxurious and functional, the Quest's interior layout with its wood-grain trimmings provides utility and sophistication, all while keeping passengers and cargo secure. As of now, there are no major changes noted for next year, since it's in the middle of its production cycle, but there seems to be little need to drastically change what's already a step above the status quo.
