Larger, More Powerful 1999 Nissan Quest Minivan Debuts at Chicago Auto Show
5 February 1998
Larger, More Powerful 1999 Nissan Quest Minivan Debuts at Chicago Auto ShowCHICAGO, Feb. 5 -- Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A. today provided an early look at its all-new 1999 Nissan Quest minivan at a press Conference at the Chicago Auto Show. With increased passenger roominess and cargo volume, numerous engine and performance improvements, and fresh new styling, the American-built Quest continues to offer an exceptional combination of car-like ride and agility with outstanding minivan utility -- a hallmark of the original design. "When Nissan Introduced the Quest in 1992, it broke new ground with its sophisticated appearance, comfortable ride and responsive handling," said Tom Eastwood, vice president, Nissan Division. "The new Quest continues the tradition of innovation, clever design and exceptional versatility, while adding roominess, power and convenience." The new 1999 Quest gains 10.7 cubic feet of overall cargo volume for a total of 135.7 cubic feet. Outer body dimensions have been stretched 4.9 inches in length and 1.2 inches in width. Height and wheelbase remain the same, helping maintain Quest's maneuverability and ease of parking and garaging. The Quest was styled at Nissan Design International, Inc. (NDI) in La Jolla California, creators of the original Quest, Infiniti J30, Nissan Altima, and other award-winning vehicles. The body is an all-new design with no carryover panels. Building on Quest's fun-to-drive heritage, the designers added sophistication and a "tailored," polished look inside and out. The new front end features a round chromed grille reminiscent of the J30 and new multiparabola headlights with crystalline lenses add a luxury appearance. Nissan Design International also created the stylish new Quest interior, designed to offer car-like amenities and increased usable space. One of the many innovations found in the Quest interior is an innovative, adjustable rear cargo shelf that can be quickly set in or out to create separate compartments for strollers, golf bags and other items. The cargo shelf was inspired by consumers participating in NDI's unique "Design Context Lab," a research process that observes owners interacting with their vehicles -- rather than just talking about them. The new Quest continues to feature the popular QUEST TRAC(R) flexible seating system, which allows second row seating to be easily removed and the third row slid forward or back as needed on integrated railings. For 1999, the QUEST TRAC has been modified to allow third row limousine seating with the second row removed. The Quest instrument panel organizes functions on a natural arch, following the instinctive reach of the driver's hands from the steering wheel to the controls and switches. Controls for the Quest's advanced audio unit were moved above the heating and air conditioning unit because of their more frequent use. The designers also sought to take advantage of the enhanced interior space through use of "human touches," including revised cupholder placements, compartments designed to accommodate different size objects, and the use of luxury features such as available dual position memory driver's seat and Integrated HomeLink(R) Transmitter universal garage door opener system. The 1999 Quest's increased power rating of 170 horsepower and 200 ft-lbs of torque comes from its new 3.3-liter SOHC V6, which replaces the previous 3.0-liter V6. The new engine is similar in design to that used on the popular Nissan Pathfinder sport utility vehicle. The engine is mated to a standard 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive fourth gear. Braking is provided by a standard power-assisted three-channel/four-sensor Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with improved performance, especially on split traction surfaces. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is also standard on all 1999 Quest models. The Quest's class-leading handling should continue in 1999, thanks to refinements to the independent MacPherson strut with coil springs front/rear leaf suspension. The rear leaf springs have been changed to a new one-piece design for reduced weight and friction. The biggest performance difference will likely be felt in the area of overall ride comfort. With the refined suspension, greatly enhanced body rigidity and special attention to a reduction of noise, vibration and harshness, the new Quest is quieter, smoother and more comfortable. "Minivans are designed as social vehicles, they occupy a special place in their owners lives by providing a new meeting point of family exchange," said Eastwood. "We've designed the new Quest to provide an enjoyable ride not only for the driver, but for all passengers." Along with being designed by NDI, the new Quest was engineered in North America through the facilities of Nissan Research and Development in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Torrance, California and Phoenix, Arizona. Major body components are produced at Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation in Smyrna, Tennessee, with final assembly provided by Ford Motor Company at their Avon Lake, Ohio plant. For 1999, the new Quest will be offered in three fully-equipped models, the GXE, SE and GLE. The new sporty SE model features 16-inch wheels and tires, handling suspension, and a black-on-white instrumentation. "Our extensive research shows that as much as minivans are known for their unmatched utility, there's a strong emotional role to owning a Quest. It simplified everyday jobs and duties -- much like a Swiss army knife or a cellular phone," said Eastwood. "At the same time, a minivan like the Quest encourages family interaction that used to be found only during family meals. The 1999 Nissan Quest excels at serving both sides of the equation." In North America, Nissan's operations include styling, engineering, manufacturing, sales, consumer and corporate finance, and industrial and textile equipment. Nissan in North America employs more than 20,000 people in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and generates nearly 75,000 jobs through more than 1,500 Nissan and Infiniti dealerships across the continent. SOURCE Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A.