2005 Nissan Quest: Road Test
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2005 Nissan Quest ▼
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- MSRP: $23,700 -$32,600
- Invoice: $21,919 -$29,809
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Our road test for the 2005 Nissan Quest includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Nissan Quest from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Nissan Quest, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Nissan Quest help you decide if a 2005 Nissan Quest is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Among the faster minivans, with fine power off the line and good merging and passing muscle. Midrange throttle response slightly quicker with 5-speed automatic transmission, but performance otherwise similar with 4-speed. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Test 3.5SL averaged 17.9 mpg, test 3.5SE 18.4, both in mixed city/highway driving. Nissan recommends premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.5 |
Absorbs bumps pretty well, but can pitch and bound over big moguls. The 3.5SE's 17-inch tires ride more harshly over sharp ridges and ruts than the other models' 16s.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Quest is among the larger minivans, and its size makes it less carlike to drive than smaller rivals, especially in tight spots. On the upside, steering is responsive and natural in feel. In turns, grip is good, body lean modest.
QUIETNESS
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.4 |
No undue road rumble, and engine isn't louder than most rival V6s, but does sound coarser in rapid acceleration. More highway wind rush than expected, too.
CONTROLS
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.1 |
Dashboard sacrifices function for avant-garde styling. Gauges in center of dashboard rather than in front of driver makes the small warning lights hard to see, and subjects instruments to washing out in sunlight. Also odd is placement of audio and climate controls on a nearly horizontal surface atop a semicircular center-console column. They're easy to reach, but many markings are too small. Navigation system doesn't absorb any audio or climate functions--a plus. Interior materials are a mix of many colors and textures; most are attractive, but some look cut-rate.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
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. Step-in height a bit steep. Dashtop reflects badly in windshield and 3rd-row headrests block view aft, but visibility otherwise good.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Adult-sized room in 2nd and 3rd rows. Wide door openings ease entry/exit for 3rd row, as do tilt-forward 2nd-row seats. Second-row seats slide fore/aft about 3 inches for increased 3rd-row room. Available Skyview roof, dual-screen entertainment system, and overhead console are nice touches.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9.4 |
Available flat-fold seats are handy, and Nissan says a 4x8 panel fits with 2nd and 3rd rows stowed. But 2nd row doesn't fold quite level with floor, and won't fold with headrests attached unless front seats are well forward. Third-row folding also requires removing headrests, and converting either row is clumsier than in some rivals. Numerous interior storage cubbies, including covered bin ahead of driver (where gauges would normally be) and dual under-dash trays.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5.8 |
Quest gives up a little too much function in its attempt to introduce high style to the minivan field. Refinement and workmanship lag behind the class leaders, and this Nissan gets pricey when options are added. On the upside, it does carry seven in reasonable comfort, and it delivers the expected safety and convenience features. Best of all, dealers should be discounting in light of weak sales.
Total Score
| 3.5SL | 3.5SE w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 55 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 56
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