The sport utility vehicle (SUV) boom through the past decade caused automakers to add a truck-based four-wheel drive vehicle to practically every brand under their care. Chrysler was a very late arrival to the premium SUV segment, which was surprising to witness from an American brand specializing in up-market vehicles,. Commandeering the Aspen name from a two-door Dodge coupe produced in the late 1970s, Chrysler used the name for its first Chrysler-branded sport utility vehicle in 2007.
A recent stagnation of the SUV craze due to their expensive operating costs has seen previous customers questioning their need for such brute movers. However, in the case of luxury, want rather than need will dictate the success of Chrysler Aspen for 2009. Being sold in "E" and "J" packaged Limited trim level or as the breakthrough hybrid, the Aspen may be that wanted premium-grade SUV.
Chrysler Aspen Exterior
Beside borrowing the Aspen nameplate from Dodge, Chrysler's first true sport utility vehicle ladder frame chassis, powertrain and some of the basic body architecture was derived from the popular Dodge Durango. Granting similarities, the Aspen enjoys a distinctively Chrysler front end and rear taillight appearances. Prominently resting over the automatic headlights and Chrysler winged logo is the multiple grooved hood surface shared with the Chrysler Sebring. As consistent with the Chrysler lineup, chrome is used liberally along the front bumper, side window moldings, and on the side mirrors. The shining allure of chrome is also found riding near the road as 18 inch and 20 inch aluminum wheels.
Being 202.1 inches in total length, the Chrysler Aspen features some welcoming convenience to handling this sizable premium SUV. Reversing is assisted through the ParkSense sensors as well as the ParkView back-up camera.
Chrysler Aspen Interior
Chrysler's signature analog timepiece tops the otherwise very familiar dash panel. Proving to be a cut above its corporate sibling in the luxury appointment category will require the Aspen Limited J package. With strain repellent cloth upholstery coming with the basic E package model, leather covers the seating
Second row bucket seating while reducing the total passenger capacity to seven, the back space benefits with lavish room in the second row and easier access to the third row bench.
Pleasing the tech savvy motorists of the 21st century, the 2009 Chrysler Aspen's interior is loaded with electronic perks. The described hub of the electronic entertainment system is UConnect series of technology. Inside every Aspen, UConnect tunes and studios integrates Sirius satellite radio, USB port, and 30 gigabyte hard drive with the 8-speaker Alpine. For superior rear passenger entertainment, optional Sirius Backseat TV beams satellite television through UConnect studios. For one year, Sirius service is provided free of charge.
Chrysler Aspen Powertrain
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen's engines remain a set of very potent eight-cylinders. For base Aspens, an E85 flex fuel capable 4.7 liter Magnum V8 enjoys an affirmative 303 horsepower. Relevant the 4X2 model, towing a maximum trailer weight up to 8,950 pounds can be performed with little troubles thanks to the standard Towing Prep Group including hitch receiver and an engine oil cooler. Optional on the base but standard on the J package is the 376 horsepower 5.7 liter HEMI. Sparking the same performance confidence related to the HEMI name, this 5.7 liter engine is a high-tech marvel. Contrary to initial belief, the more powerful HEMI actually records slightly better highway fuel mileage. MDS (Multi-Displacement System) and variable valve timing achieves in fuel savings with deactivates half the cylinders during lower engine loads with electronic management. A five-speed automatic transmission is shared between the two engines choices, carefully applying power through either a rear-wheel drive or a four-wheel drive setup. As a full-time four-wheel drive the Aspen's grip can be driver-operated from a control dial in the cabin.
Electronic Stability Program and Anti-lock brakes are standard Chrysler Aspen equipment.
Chrysler Aspen HEV Hybrid
In an effort to make the United States hunger for Sport Utility Vehicles more socially acceptable, Chrysler working in a joint technical alliance with General Motors and BMW developed an adaptable hybrid powertrain. Going on sale as the 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEV, a heavily-modified automatic transmission contains two electric motors which uses complex synchronizing improves vehicle efficiency. The Chrysler Aspen HEV also adds some exclusive standard features not found on the conventional Aspen Limited. Power adjustable pedals, UConnect phone and Sirius Traffic are all included as no charge extras to driving a greener hybrid SUV.