2007 Chrysler Aspen

When we first heard about the Chrysler Aspen sport-utility vehicle, we wondered why it was needed. After all the Chrysler group already had plenty of traditional SUVs from Dodge and Jeep, and the Chrysler brand was a crossover utility pioneer with its sleek Pacifica.  But, as we were told, a lot of buyers want a real SUV that represents the best and brightest Chrysler can build. And so, the Aspen was born.

The 2007 Chrysler Aspen is the brand’s first ever light truck-based, body-on-frame, high tow capacity sport-utility vehicle. A broadly re-crafted Dodge Durango, Aspen is more on par with full-size seven- and eight-passenger luxury utilities.  In that vein, the Aspen brings its share of bling into the ring.

The Aspen sparkles with plenty of eye-catching chrome, starting with a big-bold Chrysler 300-grille and winged badge.

Our flashy tester also boasted available 20-inch chromed wheels. Eighteen’s are standard.

The tightly seamed body panels lead back to a hulking rear-end that dons more chrome on the available power lift gate, and there is an integrated tow hitch, which can handle up to 8,950 pounds of trailer.

That heft easily be distributed over a long 119.2-inch wheelbase fully-boxed perimeter frame with hydroformed ends.

Aspen comes standard with Electronic Stability Program and new Trailer Sway Control.  When towing boats and trailers that may become unstable in crosswinds, Trailer Sway Control works to selectively apply brake pressure, while also reducing engine power, to counteract any yaw induced by the trailer.

Inside, the new Aspen’s environment is also significantly upscale over the Durango, with details more in common with the Chrysler 300

Aspen’s overall driving ambiance is elevated by LED interior illumination, blue light cast gauges, steering wheel controls, and optional adjustable pedals.

The long list of premium options includes a 368-watt audio system, satellite navigation with real-time traffic, and a power moon roof.

The second row is also carved in comfort.  Eight passenger Aspens include a split bench, while bucket seats and deep console reduce it to seven.  Options include heat and DVD entertainment.

Cargo room is plentiful with 19 cubic-feet behind the third row, expanding to a huge 102.4 cubic feet of space with both rows down.

Moving this chromed chariot on is either Chrysler’s 235 horsepower 4.7-liter E85-capable V8 with 300 pound-feet of torque; or the real hero under the hood - the optional 5.7-liter HEMI V8, with Multi-Displacement System cylinder cutoff, delivering 335 horses and a stout 370 pound-feet of torque.

A five-speed automatic with Tow/Haul mode connects to either a rear or electric-shift all-wheel drive with torque split 48% front and 52% rear.  But only the HEMI AWD gets a two-speed transfer case.

On the track, our Aspen HEMI AWD hauled from 0 to 60 in 7.9 seconds and rolled through the quarter-mile in 16 seconds flat at 88 miles-per-hour.  Shifts were smooth and programmed with luxury in mind.

Aspen’s stiff frame is supported by a double wishbone front, and link-coil, solid-axle rear suspension. ESP aids handling that is stable and refined, driving like a much smaller vehicle, while the ride remains luxury smooth.

Regardless of the HEMI’s fuel-saving MDS system, Government Fuel Economy ratings are only 14 city/19 highway on mid-grade gas.  Our AWD tester managed 14 miles-per-gallon in normal use.  The Aspen has a thirsty Energy Impact Score of 21.4 barrels of oil per year.

But take heart, pricing is a big Aspen advantage.  For all its showmanship, this large SUV starts at only $31,490 for RWD and $34,265 in AWD.  And it tops out at around $47,000.  That’s where some luxury utilities just get started.

Rounding out their brand, Chrysler has confidently entered the big SUV market with the 2007 Aspen.  With head-turning looks, amenities galore, and truck-caliber performance, Aspen gives other luxury UTE’s a run for their bling and money, while still saving a bit of green for its owners.