What is it?
The Aspen is the Chrysler brand's first sport-utility vehicle, and a twin of the Dodge Durango. Like the Durango, it includes eight-passenger seating and a choice of V8 engines. The Aspen's interior is dressed in wood-like trim with white-face gauges, and it has a longer list of standard features. Available options include a navigation system, heated front- and second-row seats, and a DVD entertainment system. Safety equipment includes electronic stability control, "electronic roll mitigation," park assist, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and three-row side-curtain air bags. The base engine is a 235-hp, 4.7-liter V8, while a 335-hp, 5.7-liter V8 will be optional. The latter engine has a cylinder-deactivation system that automatically cuts out four of the engine's cylinders when they're not needed to boost fuel economy. Both engines use a five-speed automatic transmission.
What is new or notable?
Chrysler has resurrected an old nameplate for its first entry into the sport/utility market. Beyond trim details, however, the vehicle is little different than the Durango.
When will it be on sale? Fall 2006, as a 2007 model.
