Pushing minivan design: 2005 Nissan Quest

The new Quest shares only its name with the previous model. Based on the automaker's modern FF-L (front engine, front-wheel drive, large) platform, Quest breaks all the stereotypes on what minivans can be. It offers a different kind of functionality that is an improvement of the minivan breed.

For 2005, the automaker is adding a new lower-priced base model to the Quest lineup. The model will include such standard features as overhead lighting, active head restraints and a security system.

Nissan offers the Quest in base, S, SL and SE trim levels. A 3.5-liter V-6 engine powers the minivan, coupled to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.

Inside the cabin, seats are large and comfortable, like a favorite living room chair, only with side support. The dashboard is avant-garde. Displays are in the center of the dashboard, while controls are canted face up. Although the visual is unlike any vehicle on a showroom floor this year, it works and works well.

Quest's dual sliding door openings are over four inches longer than the nearest competitor's. A second row seat "tip up" feature facilitates access to the third row seats. Both the second and third row seats fold flat so the owner need not remove the seats to create a large and versatile cargo area.

The optional full-length rear overhead console offers increased functionality while creating an aircraft-like interior environment with personal reading lamps and air vents. An overhead DVD Entertainment System is optional.

Quick vehicle stats Wheelbase: 124.0"; overall length: 204.1"; width: 77.6"; height: 71.9" Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 with 240 hp at 5,800 rpm and 242 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. Transmission: four-speed automatic with overdrive or five-speed automatic with overdrive. EPA fuel economy: 19 city/26 highway (4-speed); 18 city/25 highway (5-speed). Cargo capacity: 148.7 cu. ft. Payload capacity: 1,204 lbs. Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features include dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with antilock, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, high strength steel side-door guard beams, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, three-row head curtain side airbags, tire pressure monitor and traction control. S adds rear parking sensors. SL adds garage door opener and power adjustable pedals. SE adds fog lights, vehicle dynamic control and front seat side-impact airbags. Optional safety equipment includes rear parking sensors, front side-impact airbags and navigation system.

Basic warranty: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper. Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile. Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Quest's base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for 2005 starts at $23,450 for the base model, up to $32,350 for the top-of-the-line SE. Destination charges add $580.