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2008 Chrysler Aspen
2008 Chrysler Aspen
Ski Country Taxi
The Chrysler Aspen is a more luxurious version of the Dodge Durango, although it retains plenty of features that make it suitable for towing, hauling, and off-road driving.
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The Aspen shares underpinnings, powertrains, and most of its components with the Dodge Durango. The Aspen carries distinctive Chrysler styling cues, however: It has a large chrome grille up front, like the Chrysler 300 sedan. It has a sculpted hood, like the Chrysler Crossfire roadster. There are chrome accents on the side moldings, door handles, and roof rack. The rear end carries unique taillamps. Buyers with a thing for bling can further dress up the exterior with bold, 20-inch chrome wheels.
The Chrysler Aspen does not offer the Durango’s base V6 engine, but it does share its two V8s. Standard in the Aspen is a 4.7-liter V8, and a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that is about 40 percent more powerful is also available. The bigger engine comes with Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System that deactivates half the cylinders under low to moderate throttle. That helps the Hemi achieve slightly better fuel economy than the less powerful standard engine.
A standard five-speed automatic gearbox includes a tow/haul mode to help optimize shifting with a full load, or when pulling a boat or a trailer. It will also engage a lower gear when driving downhill to maximize engine braking. With the right optional equipment, the Aspen boasts a competitive maximum towing capacity of 8,950 pounds.
The Chrysler Aspen’s steering and suspension systems have been calibrated to deliver a relatively smooth ride with respectable handling, at least for an SUV of its size and weight. Antilock brakes with brake assist are standard. Both rear- and four-wheel-drive versions are offered. A single-speed transfer case, which maximizes on-road traction, comes with four-wheel-drive models equipped with the base engine. Hemi-equipped all-wheel-drive models add low-range gearing for serious off-road abilities.
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The automaker’s Electronic Stability Program uses throttle and braking intervention to help the driver maintain control under a wide range of conditions and handling situations. This system includes three selectable modes that afford progressively less intervention, allowing more spirited motoring.
An Electronic Roll Mitigation system engages if sensors determine that the vehicle is about to roll over. Side-curtain airbags that cover all three rows of seats are standard. They stay inflated longer should the vehicle roll over in a collision.
The Chrysler Aspen’s spacious cabin strives to be luxurious with faux, light-colored wood trim, LED lighting, white-faced instrumentation, and an analog clock atop the dashboard’s center stack. A large console between the front seats features integrated cup holders and a 115-volt AC outlet for powering laptop computers and other electrical gear. The standard cloth seats are covered in a dirt-repellent and anti-microbial textile. Full leather and suede-trimmed upholstery is also offered. A 40/20/40-split folding second-row bench seat with reclining seat backs is standard; heated seats are optional.
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Options include a power-operated liftgate, rear DVD player, surround-sound audio system, satellite radio, remote starter, navigation system, and rear proximity sensors to make parking easier.
You want a large, luxurious SUV that’s just a bit smaller and more nimble than either a Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator.
Fuel economy is important; you prefer a midsize SUV; you’d rather save money by buying the near-equivalent Durango.
The Aspen can carry as many as eight passengers, though only small children will find the rearmost row accommodating. Though the rear doors open at a wide angle for easier access to the back seats, it’s a tall climb up to get there.
The Aspen name was first used for a Dodge compact sedan, coupe and station wagon in the late 1970s.
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