Chrysler launches its first truck-type SUV as the 2007 Aspen. It's essentially a retrimmed Durango from Chrysler's Dodge brand. The two share V8 powertrains and seating for up to eight. Standard is a 235-hp 4.7-liter V8, optional is Chrysler's 335-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with cylinder deactivation, which shuts down four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. A 5-speed automatic is the only transmission. Aspen is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Low-range gearing is an AWD option. ABS and an antiskid system with rollover sensors are standard. So are curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows and include rollover deployment. Options include leather upholstery, DVD entertainment, power liftgate, navigation system, and rear obstacle detection. History
Chrysler Aspen features a smooth and quiet ride, with precise handling – benefits of a torsionally stiff, hydroformed frame and independent front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and steering feel, courtesy of consistent frame dynamics.
Four-wheel drive will be standard, just like it is with the Durango, unless you happen to be reading this from south of the border, where a rear-wheel drive version is sold as the base model. Chrysler is making two 4x4 systems available, designed to tackle varying road and/or trail surfaces.
These are all-wheel drive electronic-shift transfer cases. The first, standard with the 4.7-litre V8, is a single-speed transfer case, capable of four-wheel-drive "high" operating modes only, and the second, a two-speed transfer case, standard with the 5.7-litre HEMI V8, features an all-wheel drive high mode plus a four-wheel-drive low mode, for tackling more challenging terrain. Both transfer cases incorporate a 48/52 torque split between front and rear axles in AWD mode.Adding to Chrysler Aspen's confident and highly capable driving experience is a unique rear suspension with coil springs and a solid rear axle that delivers durability, substantial payload and best-in-class towing capability. A Watt linkage system is fitted to the rear axle, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces. The rear suspension supports a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 6,700 lbs. and towing capacity of 8,950 lbs. The 2007 Chrysler Aspen offers two all-wheel-drive electronic-shift transfer cases. A single-speed transfer case is standard with 4x4 models that feature the 4.7-liter V-8 engine. The single-speed transfer case provides all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel-drive “high” operating modes.
With three rows of seats, Chrysler Aspen's interior is spacious and sophisticated. “The interior of the 2007 Chrysler Aspen offers first-class travel,” said Creed. “A warm and inviting, yet purposeful interior environment features soft touch surfaces finished with fine materials, as well as precise gauges and controls – details that exemplify the Chrysler brand's image of beauty and elegance.” Available steering wheel-mounted controls keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while adjusting audio settings. An overhead console conveniently provides switch controls for the optional sun roof, power liftgate and universal garage door opener. In addition, an Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) is available with the overhead console and provides customer-programmable features, such as audio and security settings, as well as trip computer, compass and outside temperature data. Chrysler Aspen's instrument panel cluster features a large, centrally located speedometer and white-faced gauges outlined in chromed trim, providing easy-to-read displays for fuel, oil, volt/battery, odometer and speedometer readings. The center stack features Chrysler brand's signature analog clock and an available full-screen navigation radio and temperature controls for front and rear occupants.