The Chrysler Aspen has been around since 2007 and is essentially an upscale version of the more popular Dodge Durango. Also like Dodge, this will be Chrysler’s first hybrid vehicle - with both companies attempting to grab their slice of the hybrid suv pie. As of now, there isn’t a great deal of information available about the 2009 Chrysler Aspen hybrid. According to Chrysler, the Aspen exudes styling elegance, with clean, angular front and rear fenders, rear doors and rear-quarter panels creating a seamless profile. Individual chromed “Chrysler” lettering adorns the bodyside on each of the front doors. Chrysler Aspen’s broad, chromed grille is crowned by a sculpted hood, a signature of Chrysler vehicles.
The Aspen is Chrysler's first foray into the world of sport utility vehicles. That's right: the storied company had never offered an SUV before, leaving that job to its sportier Dodge division.
Largely derived from the more plebian 'Dodge Durango', this Chrysler still managed to develop its own unique personality.
The '2009 Aspen' boasts the same silhouette as the 'Durango' but, like any true 'Chrysler vehicle', it also sports countless chrome accents. Chrome is applied to the massive grille contour and thin horizontal slats, while the headlights integrate a subtle, downward-facing bulge. On a positive note, occupants will have an easy time climbing on board this big rig thanks to some pretty convenient running boards.
The second-row seats have child safety seat anchors and tethers (LATCH), but the third row doesn't. 'Chrysler styling' cues set the Aspen apart from the 'Dodge Durango'. Unlike the hybrid SUVs from 'General Motors' that share the Durango's two-mode hybrid system, the 'Aspen Hybrid' does not have any exterior modifications.
Interior
The front seats are supportive, with adequate bottom and side bolsters for the Aspen's intended use. Knee room for back-seat riders is cramped when the front seat is comfortably positioned for a 6-foot driver. Aspen has features that came from Chrysler's relationship with Mercedes-Benz.
Driving Impression
The Aspen is tall, heavy and narrow. With the 5.7-liter Hemi, the Aspen can pull up to 8900 pounds. The Aspen Hybrid is considerably more frugal. It shares its two-mode hybrid system with the Dodge Durango Hybrid. Chrysler's system uses an electrically continuously variable transmission (ECVT) paired with Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Fuel economy for the Aspen Hybrid is estimated at 19/20 mpg City/Highway. That compares to 13/19 mpg for an Aspen AWD model. (The Hybrid comes with all-wheel drive.) Chrysler says the hybrid system boosts city fuel economy by 40 percent and overall fuel economy by more than 25 percent. Total power output for the Hybrid is 385 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The Hybrid is rated to tow 6000 pounds. Towing with the Aspen is eased by a feature Chrysler calls Trailer Sway Control. The Hybrid model gives the Aspen a fuel economy advantage.