Critical Knowledge:- New addition to Aspen lineup
- Eight-passenger seating
- Hemi V-8 engine with two electric motors
- More than 25-percent increase in fuel economy
- Available only with all-wheel drive (AWD)
- 6000-pound towing capacity
- Sales to start mid-2008
Introduction
Chrysler released its first truck-type, body-on-frame sport utility vehicle (SUV) in mid-2006 as a 2007 model. Basically an upscale version of the Dodge Durango, the Aspen is sized between midsize SUVs, such as the Lexus GX 470 and Saab 9-7X, and full-size SUVs, like the GMC Yukon Denali and Lincoln Navigator.
Its interior space, engine options, and towing capacity, however, make it a competitor for the larger SUVs.
Chrysler has teamed up with BMW, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz to develop a 2-mode hybrid system, and for 2009 it's adding that system to the Aspen. The Aspen Hybrid will only be offered with AWD. Chrysler says the hybrid system will boost city fuel economy by 40 percent and overall fuel economy by more than 25 percent. The hybrid version is scheduled to go on sale in the middle of 2008 as a 2009 model.
Model Lineup
The non-hybrid 2009 Chrysler Aspen is offered in one trim level, Limited, with either rear-wheel drive or AWD. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid will have Limited equipment and AWD, plus a few features of its own. Limited standard features include front and rear air conditioning; tilt steering wheel with audio controls; cruise control; heated power mirrors; power windows; power doors.
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