2008 Chrysler Aspen: the Follow-up for the Durango

The Chrysler Aspen is a sport utility vehicle built by Chrysler. It was unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show and made its market debut in 2007. It is based on the Dodge Durango, as the Aspen name was earlier used by Dodge between the years 1976-80. It is the first truck-based Sport Utility Vehicle commercialized under the Chrysler brand. It may look like a crossover vehicle at some angles, but it is a fully-pledged body-on-frame SUV.

“The 2008 Aspen is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger sport-utility, available in two trims, the Limited 4X2 and the Limited 4X4. The Limited 4X2 is equipped with a standard 4.7-liter, V8, 303-horsepower engine that achieves 14-mpg in the city and 19-mpg on the highway. The Limited 4X4 is equipped with a standard 4.7-liter, V8, 303-horsepower engine that achieves 13-mpg in the city and 17-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.” With these specifications the 2008 Chrysler Aspen is truly a capable performer. It retains plenty of features that make it suitable for towing, hauling, and off-road driving.

It got its macho styling cues from the Dodge Durango. It has redesigned features such as outside chrome covering of the grille, the roof rack, lower molding, door handles and side view mirrors which made the Aspen appear more conservative than any other SUVs. The Aspens' suspension is the same what is found on the Durango.

The Aspen has comfortable seats and good storage. The quality of materials is a bit improved over the Dodge.

It has a power sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, remote start system, GPS, steering wheel controls, an AM/FM/CD six-disc CD stereo with a navigation system, and SIRIUS satellite radio. “Standard features also include cruise control, tachometer, tilt steering, leather steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted controls, telescopic steering wheel, and trip computer and driver multi-adjustable power seats.”

Maximum cargo capacity is impressive at over 102 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

According to usnews.rankingsandreviews.com “In government crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2008 Aspen receives five out of stars for both the driver and passenger protection in frontal crashes.”

Safety features include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), Parksense, and Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) system and side-curtain air bags for all three rows. It also has an unusual protective measure in the bumper in the event of a collision.

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.