2009 Nissan Quest: Road Test
2009 Nissan Quest ▼
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- MSRP: $25,950 - $35,650
- Invoice: $24,049 - $32,684
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Our road test for the 2009 Nissan Quest includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Nissan Quest from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Nissan Quest, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Nissan Quest help you decide if a 2009 Nissan Quest is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
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 when additional power is needed.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 20.5 mpg in mostly highway driving. Nissan recommends premium-grade gas, though the company says Quest will run on regular with a slight decrease in horsepower.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.6 |
Bumps are well absorbed with good body control over big moguls. Some typical minivan pitching is noticeable, but overall compliance and control are good. The 3.5 SE's 17-inch tires ride more harshly 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 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 | 6.4 |
Quest is in line with quieter minivans, such as the Toyota Sienna. Some road noise gets into the cabin. The engine sounds refined.
CONTROLS
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
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 | 5.7 |
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 | 8 |
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 | 8.1 |
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 to increase 3rd-row room. 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. 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 unit rather than a split bench as 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 7.3 |
For better or worse, Quest is not as mainstream of a design as its more popular rivals from Dodge, Honda, and Toyota. It's pleasant to drive and boasts several family-friendly features, such as dual-screen DVD entertainment. Slow sales should mean big discounts. Bear in mind, though, an antiskid system, an important safety feature we highly recommend, is only available on the most-expensive model.
Total Score
| 3.5 SL | 3.5 SE w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 70 | 69 | 73.6 |
Total Score: 70
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