2004 Nissan Quest: Road Test

Archived Review

2004 Nissan Quest 

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  • MSRP: $24,240 -$32,240
  • Invoice: $22,418 -$29,479

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Our road test for the 2004 Nissan Quest includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Nissan Quest from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Nissan Quest, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Nissan Quest help you decide if a 2004 Nissan Quest is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 4.6

No opportunity to time, but acceleration feel rivals class-leading Honda Odyssey, which clocked 7.7 sec 0-60 mph in our tests. SE's 5-speed automatic transmission provides better midrange punch than S and SL's 4 speed, but performance is otherwise similar. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.

FUEL ECONOMY

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 4 4

Test SL averaged 17.9 mpg, test SE 18.4, both in a mix of city/highway driving. Nissan recommends premium-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 5 5.7

All models absorb bumps well with mild bobbing, but S/SL's 16-inch wheels exhibit slightly less impact harshness than SE's 17s.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
5 5 4.6

Nice steering feel, moderate body lean in turns.

QUIETNESS

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 4 5.2

More highway wind rush than expected, but little road or engine noise.

CONTROLS

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
4 4 6.1

Odd layout places gauges in middle of dashboard, which takes getting used to. Digital displays can wash out in sunlight. Audio and climate controls mounted nearly horizontal on top of semicircular center column. They're easy to see and reach, but many markings are too small. Navigation system doesn't absorb any audio or climate functions--a plus. Interior materials a mix of colors and textures; most are attractive, but some look cut-rate.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 6.2

Tall folks may need more seat travel, but get plenty of head room. All models have height-adjustable driver seat and adjustable lumbar support. Adjustable pedals a boon for shorter drivers. Easy entry/exit. Dashtop reflects in windshield; visibility otherwise good, though 3rd-row headrests block view aft.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
8 8 6.9

Adult-sized room in 2nd and 3rd rows. Wide door openings ease entry/exit to 3rd row, as do tilt-forward 2nd-row seats. Second-row seats slide fore/aft about three inches for increased 3rd-row room. Optional Skyview roof provides airier feel, and available dual-screen entertainment system and overhead console are nice touches.

CARGO ROOM

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
9 9 9.3

Available flat-fold seats a handy feature and Nissan says a 4x8 panel fits without removing seats. But folded 2nd row doesn't set quite level, and headrests must be removed first unless front seats are well forward. 3rd row also requires that headrests be removed first, and folding process for both rows can be awkward. Numerous interior storage cubbies, including covered bin in front of driver (where gauges would normally be) and dual under-dash trays.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
6 6 6.2

Quest combines good road manners with an impressive array of safety and convenience features in a versatile package. Prices can get steep on fully loaded models and refinement doesn't match the best, but dealers are likely to be discounting Nissan's newest.

Total Score

SL SE w/nav. sys. Class Average
58 57 58.8

Total Score: 58

Scores for all Minivans

Low Score
44
Average Score
58
High Score
70

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