Minivan Nissan Quest is one of the most spacious and comfortable family cars, which over the years of production has gained popularity both in North America and in the secondary market of the CIS countries. Despite the fact that the model was not officially supplied to Russia, it is actively imported from the USA and Japan due to its unique combination of practicality, reliability and advanced technology for its time.

In this article we will analyze in detail technical specifications all generations Nissan Quest, from the first versions of 1993 to the latest, fourth generation (2011–2017). You will learn about engines, transmissions, fuel consumption, dimensions, as well as typical problems and operating nuances. We will pay special attention to comparison with competitors - Toyota Sienna And Honda Odysseyto help you make informed choices.

Nissan Quest model and generation history

Nissan Quest debuted in 1993 as a collaboration with Ford (on the basis of which it later appeared Ford Windstar). During production, the minivan went through four generations, each of which brought significant changes in design, technical features and level of comfort.

Key milestones in the development of the model:

  • 📅 1993–1998 (V40) - first generation with engine VQ30DE (3.0 l, 151 hp) and front-wheel drive. It was distinguished by its angular design and modest equipment.
  • 📅 1999–2002 (V41) — restyling with more rounded shapes, the appearance of all-wheel drive and an engine VQ35DE (3.5 l, 240 hp).
  • 📅 2004–2009 (V42) - radical design update (author - Shiro Nakamura), transition to the platform Nissan FF-L, improved sound insulation.
  • 📅 2011–2017 (V43) - latest generation with hybrid option (Japan only), system CVT and modern security systems.

Interesting fact: in Japan Quest sold under the name Nissan Elgrand (versions with all-wheel drive are especially popular 4WD), and in the USA it was positioned as a premium alternative Chrysler Town & Country.

📊 Which generation of Nissan Quest do you like best?
  • First (1993–1998)
  • Second (1999–2002)
  • Third (2004–2009)
  • Fourth (2011–2017)

Specifications by generation

Below is a comparative table of key parameters for each generation Nissan Quest. Pay attention to the evolution of engines and transmissions to help you understand which option is right for your needs.

Generation Engine Power, hp Transmission Drive Consumption (city), l/100 km
V40 (1993–1998) VQ30DE 3.0 l 151 4-automatic FWD 12.5
V41 (1999–2002) VQ35DE 3.5 l 240 4-automatic / 5-automatic FWD / AWD 13.8 / 14.2 (AWD)
V42 (2004–2009) VQ35DE 3.5 l 240–260 5-automatic / CVT FWD / AWD 12.0 / 12.5 (AWD)
V43 (2011–2017) VQ35DE 3.5 l 260 CVT FWD 11.5

Important: the fourth generation (V43) was equipped only with front-wheel drive, which was a step back compared to previous versions, where all-wheel drive was available AWD. This is worth considering if you plan to operate the car in snowy winter conditions.

Among the key technical features Quest stand out:

  • 🔧 VQ series motors — known for their reliability and service life (with proper maintenance, the mileage before major repairs can exceed 300,000 km).
  • ⚙️ Transmission: used in the third and fourth generations CVT (variator), which required special attention to changing the oil (every 60,000 km).
  • 🛣️ Suspension: independent front (struts MacPherson) and a multi-link rear, which provided good handling for a minivan.
💡

If you choose Nissan Quest with variator (CVT), be sure to check the transmission oil change history. If maintenance is not done in a timely manner, the variator may fail by 150,000 km.

Dimensions and interior space

Nissan Quest has always been famous for its spacious interior, but dimensions varied depending on the generation. For example, the third generation (V42) became noticeably wider and longer than its predecessors, which increased space for passengers and luggage.

Comparison of dimensions by generation:

  • 📏 V40 (1993–1998): length 4780 mm, width 1820 mm, height 1700 mm. Trunk capacity - 650 l (up to 2800 l with seats folded).
  • 📏 V41 (1999–2002): length 4850 mm, width 1850 mm, height 1720 mm. Trunk volume has increased to 700 liters.
  • 📏 V42 (2004–2009): length 5080 mm, width 1970 mm, height 1780 mm. Trunk - 800 l (up to 3000 l).
  • 📏 V43 (2011–2017): length 5040 mm, width 1990 mm, height 1770 mm. Trunk volume - 640 l (up to 2500 l).

Salon features:

  • 🪑 Seats in the second row in the third generation (V42) could be rotated 360°, which made the salon look like a mini-lounge.
  • 🚪 Electric doors (optional) and wide openings made it easier for passengers to board.
  • 🎧 An audio system was installed in top trim levels Bose with 11 speakers.
⚠️ Attention: upon purchase Nissan Quest With mileage, pay attention to the condition of the seat folding mechanisms. In the third generation, they often break due to wear of the plastic gears.

Engines and transmission: pros and cons

All generations Nissan Quest equipped with gasoline engines of the series VQ, which are considered one of the most reliable in the line Nissan. However, each motor has its own nuances.

Engine VQ30DE (3.0 l, 151 hp):

  • ✅ Simple design, low maintenance cost.
  • ❌ Weak dynamics (acceleration to 100 km/h in 12–13 seconds).
  • ❌ Tendency to overheat with a faulty thermostat.

Engine VQ35DE (3.5 l, 240–260 hp):

  • ✅ Excellent traction at low speeds, resource 300,000+ km.
  • ❌ Problems with ignition coils (require replacement every 100,000 km).
  • ❌ Oil consumption after 200,000 km (up to 1 liter per 5000 km).

Transmission:

  • 🔄 4-automatic (V40/V41): reliable, but outdated. When towing, requires frequent oil changes.
  • 🔄 5-automatic (V41/V42): smoother, but sensitive to oil quality.
  • 🔄 CVT (V42/V43): economical, but expensive to repair. The average service life of a CVT is 180,000 km with proper maintenance.

☑️ What to check when buying a used Nissan Quest

Done: 0 / 5

Fuel consumption and real indicators

Official fuel consumption figures often differ from real ones, especially for used cars. Below are the averages for Nissan Quest in a mixed cycle (city/highway).

Generation Engine Official consumption (l/100 km) Actual consumption (l/100 km)
V40 (3.0 l) VQ30DE 10.5 / 8.0 12.5–14.0 / 9.0–10.0
V41 (3.5 l) VQ35DE 11.8 / 8.5 13.5–15.0 / 9.5–11.0
V42 (3.5 l, CVT) VQ35DE 11.0 / 7.8 12.0–13.5 / 8.5–9.5
V43 (3.5 l, CVT) VQ35DE 10.5 / 7.5 11.5–13.0 / 8.0–9.0

Factors affecting consumption:

  • 🛢️ Fuel quality: engines VQ sensitive to octane number. Recommended AI-95 or higher.
  • 🚗 Loading: when fully loaded (7 passengers + luggage), consumption increases by 2–3 l/100 km.
  • ❄️ Winter operation: in cold weather, consumption can increase to 16–18 l/100 km due to prolonged warm-up.
⚠️ Attention: if fuel consumption suddenly increases by 2–3 liters, check oxygen sensors (lambda probes) And catalysts. Their failure is a common cause of overspending.

Comparison with competitors: Toyota Sienna vs Honda Odyssey

Nissan Quest has always competed with two main rivals in the minivan market - Toyota Sienna And Honda Odyssey. Let's compare them based on key parameters.

Parameter Nissan Quest (V43) Toyota Sienna (2011–2020) Honda Odyssey (2011–2017)
Engine 3.5 l, 260 hp 3.5 l, 266 hp (hybrid 2.5 l) 3.5 l, 248 hp
Transmission CVT 6-automatic / CVT (hybrid) 6-automatic / 9-automatic
Drive FWD FWD / AWD FWD
Consumption (city), l/100 km 11.5 12.0 (10.5 - hybrid) 12.5
Resale price (2026) 1.2–2.0 million RUB 1.5–2.5 million ₽ 1.3–2.2 million ₽

Pros Nissan Quest before competitors:

  • 💰 More affordable price on the secondary market.
  • 🎨 Unique design (especially the third generation).
  • 🔧 Easier to repair (parts are cheaper than Toyota).

Cons:

  • ❌ No hybrid version (unlike Sienna).
  • ❌ Fewer dealership centers and services specializing in Nissan.
  • ❌ CVT (CVT) less reliable than classic Automatic transmission at Honda.
💡

If all-wheel drive is important to you, it's best to consider Toyota Sienna AWD or Nissan Quest V41/V42 (second generation).

Typical problems and operating tips

Like any used car, Nissan Quest has a number of “diseases” that you should know about in advance. Most of them are related to the age of the model and design features.

Frequent faults:

  • 🔥 Engine overheating: first generation (V40) weak point - thermostat And pump. Replacement every 80,000 km is recommended.
  • 🔊 Creaks and knocks in the suspension: wear out stabilizer links And bushings (especially in the third generation).
  • ⚡ Electrical problems: in the fourth generation (V43) often fails climate control unit.
  • 🛑 Brake system: calipers are prone to souring and require regular cleaning and lubrication.

Tips for extending the resource:

  • 🔧 Change the engine oil every 7,000–8,000 km (even if the mileage is short).
  • 🔄 In the variator (CVT) use only original oil NS-2 or NS-3.
  • 🔋 Check the condition battery every 2 years - in Quest high electrical load.
How to check the variator (CVT) upon purchase?

1. Carry out a test drive: acceleration should be smooth, without jerks.

2. Listen to the idle speed - there should be no hum or vibration.

3. Check the color and smell of the oil: if it is dark with a burning smell, the variator will soon require repair.

4. Check with the seller whether the oil has been changed in CVT and how often.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Quest

❓ Which Nissan Quest engine is the most reliable?

Considered the most reliable VQ35DE (3.5 l) from the second and third generations. It is less susceptible to overheating than VQ30DE, and has a greater resource. The main thing is to follow ignition coils and oil level.

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Nissan Quest?

Yes, but with reservations. Maximum trailer weight:

  • For V40/V41 (with 4-automatic transmission) - up to 900 kg.
  • For V42/V43 (with CVT) - up to 1500 kg, but only with an additional cooling radiator.

Important: towing CVT reduces the life of the variator, so avoid long trips with a heavy trailer.

❓ What oil to pour into the VQ35DE engine?

A synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 or 5W-40, corresponding to the standard API SM/SN. Popular brands: Mobil 1, Idemitsu, Liqui Moly. Refill volume - 4.5 l.

❓ How much does it cost to repair a variator transmission (CVT) on a Nissan Quest?

The cost depends on the fault:

  • Changing oil and filters - 8,000–12,000 ₽.
  • Repair (replacement of belt and pulleys) - 50,000–80,000 ₽.
  • Complete replacement of the variator - 150,000–250,000 ₽ (depending on the year and mileage).

Advice: if the variator begins to “kick” or make a hum, do not delay diagnostics - delay can lead to complete failure.

❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Nissan Quest?

Main options:

  • 🛒 Original: through dealers Nissan or trusted online stores (for example, Exist.ru, Autodoc).
  • 🔧 Analogues: brands Febi, Meyle, Denso (for electrics).
  • 🚢 Contract details: salvage yards in Japan or the USA (optimal for body parts).

Beware of fakes - especially timing belts And CVT oils.