New for 2009 is an Aspen Chrysler Hybrid, but unlike some hybrid variants from other automakers, Cars. In electric-only operation, the engine is shut off, with the vehicle moving under electric-only power at low speed. New for 2009 is the Sirius Streaming Video package that comes with the available rear-seat video entertainment system. The result is a significant reduction in fuel consumption in heavy stop-and-go traffic. The Chrysler Aspen Hybrid's powertrain produces a total of 385 horsepower 287 kW and 380 lb. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen comes exclusively in Limited trim with standard features that include 18-inch wheels, leather trim, and air conditioning. The result is 303 horsepower 226 kW and 330 lb.
The most noticeable transition from electric-only to engine power happens at stoplights or other idle moments, where the battery pack may require the engine to turn on for recharging duties. Seating options include leather-trimmed bucket seats, eight-way power driver's seat with memory, heated front- and second-row seats, and either bucket or fold-and-tumble second-row seats. The engine shuts off whenever the vehicle comes to rest and it uses regenerative braking to keep the main 300- nickel-metal hydride battery charged. The rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized pinion spline that can allow relative motion between the nut and companion flange. The lack of complete crash-test data further muddies the picture, although research conducted by TheCarConnection.
What's more, the normal driver memory system controls not just the seats, but also the radio, pedals, mirrors, and climate control. The Aspen was generally comfortable; major bumps and road surface issues were cushioned, though the ride is a little busy as you'd expect from a truck with a three ton towing capacity. The feds flagged it with their lowest three-star rating in rollover because of its high center of mass. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen provides best-in-class horsepower and torque with the towing and hauling capability of a large SÚV and the fuel efficiency of smaller full-size SÚVs. Well, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is around the same price — pricier if equipped with all the same goodies, a bit less overall — and with just a little less interior space, but the ability to get 33 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway. Send Kelsey an Hide full review.
The economy section has a green zone within it that supposedly indicates the best mix of fuel efficiency and power. It runs pure electric in reverse and theoretically up to 25 mph in drive. When the cavalry does arrive, though, it comes in force. Maximum interior cargo volume 102. While we'd like the rearmost window to extend downwards more, the rear quarters are not too large and present a relatively small blind spot compared with other vehicles. Rear curb weight 2,482 lbs. What's more, getting into the middle and rear seats is easy, thanks to doors that open 90 degrees - and aren't so big as to make that a liability.
You can just turn the key and go, ignoring all the gadgetry. Standard on the 2009 Chrysler Aspen with the J Package is the new 5. I found it especially useful — if not particularly fuel-efficient — for making left turns when there was a gap in oncoming traffic. Engine type V-8 Front tread 64. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others do not. Ignition type spark Aluminum cylinder head S Fuel economy city 20 mpg Cylinder deactivation S of valves 16 Torque 380 lbs.
Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Attach the same system to a V6, and you'd always need to run on six cylinders while the gas engine was running; which means that, under light throttle, you'd actually be using more gas. Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating 3,900 lbs. The Aspen is a Durango under a thick skin; the sheet metal is completely different, and the interior has enough material and graphic changes to look completely different. The hybrid system for the Aspen and Durango, developed with General Motors, Daimler, and , extends the life of the Hemi V-8 that Chrysler diligently built up into a marketing buzzword four years ago. When going downhill, the Aspen generated power for its batteries, causing more drag than an automatic transmission would. It delivers a 'two-mode' full hybrid system by integrating proven automatic-transmission technology with a patented hybrid-electric drive system.
Finally, there is now Electronic Roll Mitigation standard; it prevents rollovers in conjunction with the stability control, and can use individual brakes as needed. At lights the engine usually shuts off; when you hit the gas it's there without any delay. In the rear is a unique suspension setup with coil springs and a solid rear axle that delivers durability, substantial payload capability and best-in-class towing ability. Chromed accents on bodyside moldings, door handles, side mirrors, belt molding and roof rack, as well as available 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, add premium panache. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Finally, there is now Electronic Roll Mitigation standard; it prevents rollovers in conjunction with the stability control, and can use individual brakes as needed. Thankfully, in the event of a panic stop, the system relies solely on the hydraulic brakes and a good anti-lock braking system. Individual chromed 'Chrysler' lettering adorns the bodyside on each of the front doors and the liftgate. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard. In its place is a unique gauge with zones for battery charging, economic driving and stronger acceleration.
The problem thus far has been that driving said hulk on a daily basis drains the old wallet at an alarming rate. Rear curb weight 2,482 lbs. A Watt's linkage system is fitted to the rear axle, centering the axle and reducing rear-end skate over rough surfaces. And for the first time, a hybrid powertrain is available. This review covers attributes unique to the Aspen Hybrid; my thoughts on its seating and interior quality can be found in the non-hybrid Aspen review.