Nissan debuts new Quest

Just when you think you've seen every version of minivan possible, Nissan debuts its fourth-generation Quest with a few new ideas.

The Quest's third-row seats are not removable, so don't worry about straining a back muscle lugging them out. And no matter how many seats are occupied or how much cargo is packed inside, the Quest has an extra, large, hidden storage area under the floor just before the rear bumper for sizeable last-minute items.

And it's not an earth-shattering innovation, but there are 16 cupholders, more than what you'll find in the Honda Odyssey.

Smaller than the Odyssey

Built in Japan, the 2011 Quest is some two inches narrower and shorter in length than the Odyssey. But the Quest's starting price is on par with the Odyssey. Starting manufacturer's suggested retail price, including destination charge, is US$28,550 for a base, 2011 Quest S with 260-horsepower V-6 and continuously variable transmission.

Note the Quest is the only minivan on the US market with a CVT, which is designed to optimise fuel economy. But the estimated fuel mileage for the Quest - 19 miles per gallon in city driving and 24 mpg on the highway - is not class-leading.

Meanwhile, the 2011 Honda Odyssey - which has top minivan gasolene mileage of 19/28 mpg - starts at US$28,580 with 248-horsepower V-6 and automatic transmission.

The 2011 Toyota Sienna LE with 266-horse-power V-6 has a starting retail price, including destination, of US$30,010, and the 2011 Chrysler Town and Country starts at US$30,995 with 283-horsepower V-6 and automatic transmission.

Nissan officials talk up the exterior styling of the new Quest, but no one looked at the van during the test drive.