After receiving extensive exterior, interior, convenience and safety enhancements in 1996, the Nissan Quest continues to set the standard by adding further refinements to its 1997 line up. Boasting its passenger/cargo versatility and advanced safety features, Quest also enjoys the merits of a sedan with car-like handling and ride comfort. With these exceptional qualities, it's no wonder that the Nissan Quest has been the best selling import-brand minivan since 1993.
"The Nissan Quest is a vital component of our overall vehicle lineup, as it gives customers the ultimate balance of utility and comfort," said Thomas H. Eastwood, vice president, Nissan Division. "For 1997, we're providing our customers with even more comfort, safety and thoughtfully designed features than ever before."
The popular XE model increases its available choices by adding optional captain's chairs, a new orchid-color interior and 2-tone exterior, features previously only available on the top-of-the-line GXE. For all Quest models, three new exterior colors have been added (10 total), and safety features enhanced as 1997 models meet the Federal Side-Impact Safety Standards.
Design/Interior Styling
Beneath the stylish exterior, the 1997 Nissan Quest offers outstanding performance and utility. The versatile and spacious interior adapts to all people and cargo hauling needs due to its QUEST TRACĀ® Flexible Seating System. In the standard XE model, the seats can be arranged to create 20 different seating configurations, while captain's chairs offer an additional four positions for a total of 24 possible seating arrangements. Depending on the seating layout, available cargo volume varies from 14.1 cu. ft. to 114.8 cu. ft., with seating capacity for seven adults.
Safety Features
In addition to meeting 1997 Federal Side-Impact Safety Standards, Quest comes equipped with standard dual air bags, 3-point front seat belts with height-adjustable upper anchors for user comfort, steel side-door guard beams and a child-safety lock on the sliding side door. As an added safety feature for infants and children, second-row integrated child safety seats are available on both XE and GXE models with bench seats.
Also featured on Quest is an anti-lockout power door lock system which prevents drivers from locking the vehicles keys inside by sensing if a key has been left in the ignition switch when the drivers door is closed. Quest's door locks also sense if any object other than the vehicle key is put into the lock cylinder and engages the vehicle security.
Engine/Suspension/Body Structure
Integral to the unique character of Quest is its powerful engine which has more horsepower (151 hp) than any other import-brand minivan. The Quest powertrain, standard on both the XE and GXE, includes an advanced 3.0-liter SOHC V6 engine linked to an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission with an overdrive fourth gear. Due to computer controls connecting the engine and transmission, and a torque curve specifically designed to provide greater torque at lower rpm, Quest provides improved pulling power and acceleration and a smoother transmission shift -- even when hauling heavy loads.
Complementing the powertrain is a responsive suspension featuring MacPherson struts in front and a long-tapered leaf spring rear suspension. Standard front stabilizer bars (optional in the rear on GXE) help minimize body roll.
Standard power-assist rack-and-pinion steering and power-assisted front disc brakes contribute to stable road handling and responsive braking. 4-wheel disc brakes with vented front rotors and Anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard on GXE models and optional on XE.
Standard Equipment/Optional Features and Packages
The 1997 Quest comes equipped with a myriad of standard features, including: dual air bags; new door trim panels; a new stitching for both leather and cloth seats; additional storage in the rear (third-row) seat position; an additional 12-volt power point plug in the second-row seating area (GXE model); power windows, mirrors and lock switches; and the addition of an illuminated driver-side vanity mirror.
For driving comfort, Quest offers a solid lineup of standard and optional luxury and convenience features. Remote keyless entry system with illuminated entry/exit fade-out system, a semi-automatic temperature control system, an in-dash disc compact disc changer, and a steering wheel-mounted audio system, add to Quest's enjoyable experience for drivers and passengers.
The 1997 Quest is available in two well equipped models, XE and GXE. Each model has a variety of available equipment packages, including Convenience Package, Power and Glass Package (XE only), XE Touring Package, as well as a GXE Luxury Package including sunroof and GXE Handling Package.
Available options include leather seating surfaces (GXE only), ABS (standard on GXE) and rear air conditioning and heater (standard on GXE).
Exterior Styling
New for 1997 are three new exterior colors, Nordic White, Quicksilver and Desert Violet for a total of ten colors. Updated two-tone combinations include Quicksilver and Desert Violet. The Quest offers matching interior colors of Graphite, Saddle and the new Orchid (cloth only).
Warranty
All 1997 Nissan models are covered by a comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile "bumper-to-bumper" Limited Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 5-year/60-000-mile Corrosion Coverage and a Lifetime Seat Belt Warranty
Source: Nissan