2008 Nissan Quest: Road Test
2008 Nissan Quest ▼
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- MSRP: $25,080 - $34,780
- Invoice: $23,245 - $31,852
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Our road test for the 2008 Nissan Quest includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Nissan Quest from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Nissan Quest, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Nissan Quest help you decide if a 2008 Nissan Quest is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Among the faster minivans, Quest has fine power off the line along with good merging and passing muscle. The transmission upshifts smoothly and downshifts promptly for additional passing power.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Quest averaged 20.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. Nissan recommends premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.4 |
Bumps are well absorbed with good body control over big moguls. There is some typical minivan pitching, but overall there is a good balance of compliance and control. The 3.5 SE's 17-inch wheels make the ride more harsh over sharp ridges and ruts than the other models' 16s.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.2 |
Quest is among the larger minivans, so it's less car-like to drive than some rivals. It feels cumbersome to maneuver in close quarters. On the upside, the steering is responsive and natural in feel, and Quest corners with good grip and modest body lean.
QUIETNESS
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Quest is in line with quieter minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna.
CONTROLS
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
The dashboard no longer sacrifices function for avant garde styling. The gauges are easy to see and read. Audio and climate controls are mounted on a horizontally biased surface. They're easy to reach, but many markings are too small and their indicator lights may be subject to washing out in direct sunlight. The navigation system absorbs no audio or climate functions--a plus.
DETAILS
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Interior materials are an attractive and upscale mix of colors and textures.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.5 |
Tall folks may need more seat travel, but they get plenty of headroom. All models have a height-adjustable driver seat and adjustable lumbar support. The available adjustable pedals are a boon for shorter drivers. When deployed, the 3rd-row headrests block the view aft. Visibility is good otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.6 |
Adult-sized room in the 2nd and 3rd rows. Wide door openings ease entry and exit for the 3rd row, as do the tilt-forward 2nd-row seats. Second-row seats slide fore and aft about 3 inches. Available SkyView roof, overhead console, and SE's dual-screen entertainment system are nice touches. Power windows on the sliding side doors are unavailable.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 |
The available fold-flat seats are handy, and Nissan says Quest will hold a 4x8-foot. panel. But the 2nd row doesn't quite fold level with the floor. The 3rd row folds flush with the floor via a one-handed operation, but it is a one-piece bench rather than a 50/50 split design found in most competitors. The interior has numerous storage cubbies, plus the available front center console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 7.1 |
For better or worse, Quest is not as mainstream of a design as its more popular rivals from Dodge, Honda, and Toyota. But its dashboard no longer sacrifices too much function in the name of high style, and improvements in ride comfort, quietness, and features make it merely competitive, rather than a stand-out, in the minivan class.
Total Score
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 71 | 70 | 71.2 |
Total Score: 71
Scores for all Minivans
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