2008 Nissan Quest

Despite the shrinking minivan market in the U.S., Nissan forges on with its Quest minivan. You'll recognize it in the soccer game parking lot by it's the high wheel arches.

The Quest was originally introduced as a re-badged version of the Mercury Village in 1993 but was redesigned in 2004 as its own model. While "sporty" and "minivan" aren't often used in the same sentence, the Quest is widely regarded as one of the most performance-minded in the segment. At the heart of the Quest's sporty nature is a standard 235 horsepower 3.5L V6 engine -- a version of the same award winning VQ powerplant used in the Nissan 350Z, Altima and Maxima. That power is sent to the Quest's front wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.

Other standard Quest equipment includes traction control, a tire pressure monitoring system and six airbags. There are four variations to the Quest (3.5, 3.5 S, 3.5 SL, 3.5 SE) and a new color, Lakeshore Slate. The SL level has a rearview camera and automatic headlights and dual zone air conditioning.

In 2007, the Quest got a new grille, headlights, and accents, a revised roof-rack, and new wheels. Up-level models offer a power liftgate, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, 16- or 17-inch wheels, power adjustable pedals and a unique SkyView glass-paneled roof.

Inside, there's an optional front center console with storage. The seats fold down for more cargo room. In terms of trim, there's a faux wood style or brushed metal to choose from. Traction control is standard, and an electronic stability system is optional.