Teresa’s View
The Aspen is an all-new model and the first sport-ute from Chrysler. No, the crossover “Pacifica” doesn’t count. Even the “all-new” part is a bit of a misnomer. Shockingly, Chrysler is one of the last manufacturers to get into the SUV game, unless Lamborghini and Ferrari are planning to make an announcement. So, rather than start from scratch, Chrysler used fellow brand Dodge’s sturdy Durango as a jumping off point, gussying it up with premium features and some Chrysler-family attributes such as a toothy grille reminiscent of Chrysler’s luxurious 300C sedan. I think I even see a splash of Jeep Compass. (They’re all family, you know.)
Although the Aspen is technically a full-size SUV, it’s smallish compared to its competitors. The easier to park in the garage, I say. Our Aspen tester also passed the petite parking test thoughtfully provided by my bank’s impossibly tiny lot.
Just because the Aspen is a luxury sport-ute doesn’t make it a princess. Built on the Durango’s tough body-on-frame chassis, the Aspen is not only off-road capable — she sports 8.7-inches of ground clearance and an optional low-range transfer case. She also boasts a towing capacity of 8,950 pounds, depending on the engine.
The Aspen comes with a choice of V-8 engines — a standard 4.7-liter plant that delivers 235 horsepower or an optional 5.7-liter, 335-hp “Hemi.” Both use a five-speed automatic transmission.
To help reduce fuel costs — EPA ratings are 14 mpg city and 19 highway — the smaller of the two engines can also run on E85 ethanol fuel and the Hemi uses a multi-displacement system that shuts down four of the engine’s eight cylinders during certain driving conditions.
The real accomplishment is the Aspen’s quiet, comfortable ride. It’s smooth without being floaty, although there’s too much play in the steering wheel for my taste.
As stout and sturdy as the Aspen is on-road, it’s the luxury part that’s wishy-washy. The standard set-up includes cloth seats, a four-speaker audio system and limited features. Although the Aspen is marketed as a premium sport-ute, one has to shell out nearly $3,500 for an options package that adds typical luxury features such as leather seats, wood trim and an upgraded sound system.
What Is It?: The Chrysler Aspen is a full-size premium SUV that seats up to eight. Offered in a single trim in either two- or four-wheel-drive, prices start at just over $31K.
Favorite Features: There are some tasty treats, such as a handy built-in cooler and a power inverter that can power a laptop. For those who will use the Aspen to tow boats and trailers, Chrysler adds a first-of-its-kind system that helps reduce trailer sway.
The Back Seat: Captain’s chairs are available for the second row and an optional three-passenger third seat helps provide a certain amount of customization. Legroom is limited regardless the arrangement.
Cheat Sheet: Chrysler is a division of DaimlerChrysler.
So, Where Are Ya From?: The Aspen is assembled in Newark, Del.