Thursday, December 22, 2011

2012 Nissan Quest Minivan offers hi-tech comfort

2011-12-22_1334
The Nissan Quest minivan has been produced since 1993, but most of us have forgotten those dark days when it was a re-badged Mercury Villager. Since 2004, the Quest has been a Nissan-unique vehicle.

Built on the same platform as the current Nissan Maxima, Altima and Murano, its 118.1-inch wheelbase and 200.8-inch overall length give the Quest family hauler a roomy interior and maneuverable overall size.

It's difficult to design a minivan that doesn't look much different from the typical box on wheels, but Nissan has succeeded in creating a unique appearance that makes it instantly recognizable. Full surround privacy glass, black sash molding and chrome trim accents combine with the wide, low stance to give Quest a dynamic and distinctive appearance. Trinkets such as chrome door handles and rear roof spoiler make the 2012 Nissan Quest stand out in a crowd. The Quest exterior design is also one of the most wind-efficient, with a 0.32 Cd for the Quest S model.

The 2012 Quest is offered in four models: S, SV, SL and LE. The Quest S is the base model with minimal standard equipment. Moving upward in the progression, each model gets more and more standard equipment, making the top-of-the-line LE almost luxurious.

The Quest is a comfortable and roomy way to take care of routine family travel needs, and it's also ideal for an occasional long vacation trip. Prices start at $27,750 for the S; $31,050 for the SV; $34,500 for the SL; and $41,350 for the LE.

All models come with power sliding side doors and power-opening windows. Quest's door rail system is designed to make the sliding door step-in height lower than competitive minivans.

The interior layout includes quick-release fold-flat second and third row seats. The 60/40-split third-row seat can be switched from upright to fold-flat position with the simple pull of one strap or push of a button. A spring assist helps the manual fold and return operation. There's a standard second row walk-in device for easier access to the third row.

Front seating includes a special "trilaminar" structure, which uses three types of cushions to distribute body pressure more evenly than traditional padding, and the first application of Nissan's Quick Comfort front seat heaters. When activated, this sophisticated system immediately begins warming the body parts that are most sensitive to heat, such as the thighs and hips. Then, to maintain a warm, cozy feeling, the heater increases heating on body pressure points.

A new climate control system works three ways to help reduce allergens and unwanted odors inside the cabin. Its air-intake control has sensors to monitor outside odors and automatically closes the intake port to prevent inflow of exhaust fumes or other unpleasant smells.

The new system uses a special filter to help reduce the number of allergens in the interior air and it generates ions to "scrub" the interior air of unwanted odors -- whether they come from outside or inside the vehicle. Upscale models feature a tri-zone automatic temperature control system.

A range of audio systems is also available, starting with the Quest S model's AM/FM/6CD system with four speakers. A Bose premium audio system with AM/FM/CD/DVD and 13 speakers is available. A USB port with iPod connectivity is available on some models.

The only powertrain available is 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 and Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission. With 260 horsepower and 240 lb ft of torque, fuel economy is estimated at 19 miles per gallon city and 24 mpg highway.

The four-wheel independent suspension uses struts with coil springs up front and a multi-link design in the rear for nicely balanced ride and handling qualities. Brakes are four-wheel discs and steering is speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion design.

The 2012 Quest also offers standard stability control, anti-lock brakes, dual-stage supplemental front airbags and a full array of popular safety features. A blind spot warning system is available on some models.

The 2012 Nissan Quest is more than just another standard minivan -- it's a new take on innovation for the family. From its bold styling with full surround glass to its extensive list of family friendly features and innovations, Quest also brings dynamic performance to the minivan segment. The 2012 Quest features a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 hp and 240 lb ft of torque.

Source: sfgate.com

No comments:

Post a Comment