With the auto industry making concerted efforts to advance fuel saving technology, even the most traditional of vehicles must change to meet the challenge. Enter the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid. The traditional body-on-frame construction is mated to a new two-mode hybrid system in an effort to wring more MPGs out of this full-size 8-passenger sport utility vehicle.
The Aspen Hybrid combines a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that puts out 345 horsepower and 380 pound feet of torque with an electric motor and a 300-volt battery pack. Power is routed through a 5-speed automatic transmission to full-time all wheel drive.
Fuel economy for the Aspen Hybrid is 18 miles per gallon city, 19 miles per gallon highway.
The Aspen Hybrid comes only in the top-of-the-line Limited trim and comes standard with features such as leather interior with woodgrain and faux chrome accents, navigation system with 6-disc in-dash changer, heated front seats, and split fold 2nd and 3rd row seating that gives way to up to over 100 cubic feet of cargo space.
Selected options on our test car included power sunroof and the back seat entertainment system with LCD screen and remote control.
Standard safety features on the Aspen Hybrid include 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, electronic stability program, Parkview rear backup camera, tire pressure monitoring system and a full array of front and side impact airbags.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid is $45,270. With full options, the price will top out at just under $50,000. The Aspen Hybrid is backed by Chrysler's impressive unlimited powertrain warranty.
Today's automotive marketplace demands vehicles that are more fuel efficient than ever before. While this is true, the cargo capacity, versatility, and rugged construction of a traditional SUV cannot be overlooked. It is with vehicles such as the all-new Chrysler Aspen Hybrid that the best attributes of both take shape.