MotorMouths

The 2011 Nissan Quest has odd styling, poor visibility, tight interior, squishy handling, and a high price. And its steering is unusually light and numb.

The 2011 Quest’s styling was off-putting. The front appears tapered, stylish. But the upright, overly festooned rear seemed a mismatch. Overall, better than its predecessor, but perhaps not the bull’s-eye Nissan wants.

If you’re spending this kind of cabbage on a minivan, you’re probably going to want one that gives you the flexibility to haul the greatest amount of stuff when the need arises. In that respect, the Quest doesn’t hang with the competition.

The 2011 Nissan Quest’s design will likely appeal to some, and it will serve the role of people carrier perfectly well. But if hauling cargo is the main mission, other vans perform that task better.

The Nissan Quest is a different looking minivan for a different type of buyer. The lack of cargo space and fewer bells and whistles may seem like a compromise, but the unique styling and strong performance will be more than enough for some.

The new Quest LE comes through with more space, stuff and power. But it still has a way to go in the mileage marathon, and it’s no easy piece of work when it comes to driving.

Perhaps the Quest will find its own comfortable niche within the minivan segment. The vehicle is well-suited for older buyers, thanks to its comfy bucket seats and easy second-row access. And it is a good value: power everything and yes, the DVD system.

The 2011 Nissan Quest shines for power and interior accommodations, but fails to best its rivals in seating and entertainment options. Prices are competitive, however.

Attractive, with a smooth ride and premium interior, the Quest is perhaps the most attractive minivan to luxury buyers who might otherwise opt for an SUV that doesn’t quite meet their people-moving needs

The Quest’s looks won’t suit everyone, yet its future-shock Tokyo visage makes a nice contrast to other soft, portly vans. Dad might still pine for a 3 Series, but in the 2011 Nissan Quest, he’ll at least have a commanding view of his dreams.

Minivans need to be awesome, plus 10%. Is the new Nissan Quest? Not quite. Still, Nissan has taken an interesting turn with the redesigned Quest.

Although the 2011 Nissan Quest offers good maneuverability and plenty of usable interior space, it does not stand out as a breakout hit, looking more like an also-ran.