Used 2011 Nissan Quest Minivan Review & Ratings

The Nissan Quest Minivan has been manufactured since 1993 and is currently in its fourth generation. While the Quest is a product of Nissan Motors, during the first two generations there was a joint effort between Nissan and Ford to produce the minivan. Production issues led to the need for Ford to manufacture the van in their plant. The agreement allowed Ford to rebadged the Quest and sell it as the Mercury Villager. The original Quest debuted at the 1992 North American International Auto Show as a 1993 model and was a successor to the Axxess which had sold in North American between 1990 and 1995 depending on location and the Vanette which was discontinued in 1990.

Though the Nissan Quest Minivan and the Mercury Villager were essentially the same family minivan, there were some distinct differences that set them apart from each other. A unique grille, side trim, bumpers and tail lights were the main distinctions between the two models. Many of the parts that were used inside the Quest were taken from Ford and based in large part on their discontinued Aerostar minivan. The seven passenger van featured a removable center bench and a third row that would slide as needed for additional room. 1994 brought airbags into the van on the driver's side and 1996 introduced them on the passenger side.

The Nissan Quest Minivan was completely designed for its second generation featuring a stronger engine and a longer design. There was more cargo space added in 2001. Nissan did not market the Quest in 2003 as they prepared for the launch of their third generation in 2004. The Mercury Villager had been discontinued in 2002 and production had been moved. Production moved again to Japan just in time for the fourth generation to be released in 2011. This model was unveiled at the 2010 Los Angeles International Auto Show and showed that Nissan was putting high priority on function in the minivan.

The interior of the Nissan Quest Minivan is altered based on the trim that is selected. The top trims focus on luxury for the family, while lower trims are comfortable and functional. The design inside the van is attractive and appeals to drivers and passengers while the controls are user-friendly. Overall, it is a comfortable ride but unlike many of today's vans it only seats seven passengers. The second row features captain's chairs instead of the standard three seater bench that comes with most vans. However, both second and third rows fold flat to increase the cargo space making it a versatile choice in a minivan. The second row seats also slide and recline for added comfort. Drivers will find that the interior is grouped in a way that makes operation easy and effortless. Inside the lower trims is nicer than the average minivan and inside the top trims is a luxurious getaway.

Drivers of the Nissan Quest Minivan will find that the experience is more than adequate. It offers a significantly powerful engine and the handling is better than your typical minivan. This minivan can even take curves in a sporty style. The van easily takes in the shock that is often felt from bumpy roads so that the ride for those inside is smooth and flawless. Noise from outside the van is silenced and the steering is exact. The Quest has decent acceleration and can reach 0 to 60 in only 8.5 seconds. Still, it will feel a little heavy at times for the driver and that can affect the overall experience.