is targeting an upscale market that fancies itself as the boating class.

The Nautica package on our white test model included a two-tone paint job

(with blue-grey fascias and body cladding), painted white hub caps, and

a jaunty yellow-and-white sailboat logo that appears on the rear gate and

on each seatback.

If you're in the market for a minivan, you're either a parent or some

other form of load-bearer. So, your first introduction to the vehicle is

likely to involve the sliding door or rear tailgate.

On that front, the Villager bats one-for-two: The side door--which comes

with a childproof lock--slides open very easily, with just one hand.

But operating the rear gate is a two-handed operation. You have to turn

the key with one hand while lifting the gate with the other. We pause,

pondering: Who is a minivan designed for, if not someone with an armful?

Once the gate is lifted, it offers enough head clearance for a six-footer.

A fourth-door option, a la Chrysler and the new General Motors minivans,

isn't offered.

If a Nissan dealer is handier to your whereabouts, the Quest offers

some cosmetic distinctions--mostly in the design and detailing of the grilles,

taillamps, and lower fascias.