2013 Nissan Quest Reg Cab XLT SRW

The Nissan Quest minivan is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 making 260 horsepower, put to the ground through a slick CVT. It is available in four trim levels: S, SV, SL and LE. The base S is sparsely equipped for a minivan, but still offers an auxiliary audio jack and a few other niceties. The SV adds a wealth of other items such as alloy wheels, power-sliding doors and high-tech items like Bluetooth and an iPod interface. The SL trim is more luxurious thanks to its leather upholstery and one-touch folding third-row seats, while the top-trim LE offers a navigation and DVD entertainment system and an optional panoramic moonroof spanning nearly the length of the roof. Inside, the Quest's controls are logically grouped on the center stack and easily navigable. Interior materials are above average even on lower trim models, while the leather-appointed cabins in the range-topping trims feel premium and luxurious. But the Quest's second-row captain's chairs eliminate the option for an eighth passenger, and although its seats fold neatly into the floor, it results in about 40 cubic feet less cargo capacity than other mainstream minivans. Overall, though, the Quest is no longer a lower-rung choice, but a legitimate first-look consideration. Thanks to its compliant ride, composed handling and smooth power delivery, it should serve families quite well.