Nissan says one look at the new Quest Concept proves that they are taking an "outside the box" approach to minivan design. From the side profile, the first thing one notices is the unique beltline. This thick waist flows gently from the headlights until it gets near the rear door, where it dramatically kicks upwards and continues on towards the rear. It contrasts well with the arched roofline. Another trademark feature is its glass paneling. One could say the Quest Concept has a true "greenhouse." Everything from the waist to the roof is covered in green-tinted glass. Its a look partially inspired by modern high-rises. Not only is it an interesting talking point, but it helps further the streamlined look of this minivan. Finishing off the look are large 20-inch highly-polished wheels poking out of dramatic wheel arches that accentuate the slab sided design. Some FA editors think the nose and grille design remind them of a certain European manufacturer that has a very lose relationship with Nissan.

"Minivans carry such strong negative imagery that it’s hard for many buyers to get beyond the exterior, when the truth of the matter is there’s probably no better vehicle for carrying large amounts of people and stuff. With the Quest Concept, we’re trying to demonstrate that style and functionality can go together." Tom Semple, President, Nissan Design America (the group that headed Quest’s design) stated during the debut.

Step inside via the power operated doors with flush handles, and you enter a world that Nissan says is functional and beautiful. Continuing the fluid, arching theme of the exterior; we think the interesting interior fulfils the promise set by the Quest’s outer shell. The "tabletop" controls are placed on a unique flat cylinder shaped center stack that falls away from the passengers for more legroom. The big story here is not the look of the interior, but its utility. This is, after all, a people-carrier meant to lug around a few kids and all their stuff. Built into the seatbacks and interior trim is a "universal fastening system" that will accommodate custom designed storage and organization "solutions." A power operated bike rack deploys from the rear cargo area. More storage is also offered in the full-length overhead console that’ll be described in just a second.

Techno-freaks with families rejoice! Your transport for the whole clan is here. Lets talk headlights. Fiber-optics projected onto magnifying lenses creates a highly efficient lighting system. A rear facing camera keeps an eye on the kids and lets you view them in the 16-inch wide center mounted "Thin Film Transistor" display. Dual entertainment system displays are mounted on the overhead console that runs the length of the cabin, it also features personal lighting, audio, and climate controls. 

"We’ve tried to bring a little romance and style to minivans in contrast to the noise of everyday life," said Semple. "I think we succeeded with the next generation Quest Concept." 

Nissan isn’t letting on as to how much of the Quest Concept’s looks or technology will make it to production, but we can bet quite a few features will make it. Nissan believes that last thing consumers want is another look-alike minivan, so it’ll be interesting to see the final product. And the fact that the VW's new Microbus will be on the market will have the Nissan designers and engineers burning the midnight oil.



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