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DEL MAR, CA – Ever since the modern minivan was introduced by the former Chrysler Corp. in the 1980s, auto makers have tried to top each other with gimmicky features.
“Behold the magic seat!” Honda Motor Co. Ltd. proclaimed in 1995 with its Odyssey’s disappearing third row.
Nearly 10 years later, Chrysler offered “Stow ’n Go” second-row seats to get a flat load floor.
In 2003, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., a bit player in the segment, thought an anti-minivan minivan was the way to go. With unconventional sheet metal and a multi-panel “Skyroof,” Nissan targeted “sexy moms” who prioritized style over substance.
Turned out most sexy moms were not impressed, as Quest again sank below its rivals.
Now Nissan appears on the right path, going after the natural minivan target: families.
But the new ’11 Quest, although nice, is destined to remain a niche player, thanks to its one-size-fits-all flavor that makes competing vehicles, especially the new-for- ’11 Odyssey, more attractive.
The Quest, on sale in late January and sharing a platform with Nissan’s Japan-market Elgrand van, makes a styling statement with its boxy shape and near-upright D-pillars joining a flat roof.
Nissan says this design increases headroom for rear passengers, especially those in the usually cramped third row.
