The side view offers the proportions and features of a traditional SUV. The swept-back windshield pays homage to aerodynamics and looks sleek. Mildly creased, visually pleasant blisters circle the wheelwell openings. A chrome-topped, overstated molding strip pulls double duty, breaking up the expanse of metal between the front and rear wheel cutouts while insulating the doors against parking lot dings. Side mirrors proudly perch on brackets extending from the base of the A-pillars (the side frames of the windshield). A slight ridge defining the beltline (where the side windows meet the lower body panels) extends beyond the base of the rear pillars, accenting the graceful outline of the rear quarter windows. A short front overhang and tucked-up lower hindquarters invite thoughts of venturing off the highway to explore an unpaved track.
The optional running boards do a better job of dirtying trousers and long skirts than serving as truly functional steps, and the quarter-step from the running board into the car is awkward; we'd delete them.
It's the rear aspect of the Aspen that has the most presence, the view most will have of it in traffic. A strong rear bumper with a deep, non-skid clad step cups the one-piece liftgate. Chrome-like trim on the bumper's end caps tie into the side molding strip. The medallion-and-wing treatment from the grille repeats above the stylized license plate recess. Gently bowed sides and a rounded top give the back end a smaller, less massive look than the rest of the vehicle. A conservatively sized notch centered in the bumper's lower edge makes room for the optional hitch receiver and junction box.
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. A Hybrid badge on the rear is very noticeable, however. Next Page