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2007 Chrysler Aspen Preview

Something a Little Different in the Almost Premium Class

When Chrysler Group first announced that it would be expanding its sport utility lineup in coming years (see automotive news section of this website for Oct 1, 2005: Chrysler Group Announces Five New SUVs on the way Amid Fuel Crisis), even some of the automotive media were up in arms. What? More SUVs, some of which are to be full-size gas guzzlers? As if the world needs any more. But, to be fair to the Auburn Hills, Michigan-based automaker, Chrysler Group really never took full advantage of the sport utility craze when it should have, during the last decade and a half.

Even Jeep, the iconic SUV brand, doesnt make as many sport ute models, let alone large V6- and V8-powered 4x4s, as eco-minded Toyota. Thats hard to believe, but its true. When compared to Ford or GM, Chrysler Group should be ashamed of its lack of fortitude, merely making do when

Chrysler really never took full advantage of the SUV craze when it should have, during the last decade and a half, but those days are over with the new Aspen. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

others were cashing in. Even its newest full-size Jeep Commander is just barely longer than midsize, with exterior dimensions that are dramatically more compact than GMs Tahoe/Yukon, Fords Expedition, Toyotas Sequoia or Nissans Armada. Chrysler Groups largest SUV, the Dodge Durango, isnt anywhere near as big as GMs Suburban/Yukon XL duo, or Fords super-sized Excursion, while its still smaller than Expedition, Sequoia and Armada. Chrysler, on the other hand, has never even had a single SUV in its lineup, ever!
Chrysler dubs the Dodge Durango-based Aspen, due to arrive in showrooms across the nation this coming autumn as a 2007 model. the "300 of SUVs". (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) />This will change shortly, however, with the Durango-based Chrysler Aspen, due to arrive in showrooms across the nation this coming autumn as a 2007 model. Chrysler dubs it the "300 of SUVs", which might be a stretch unless its marketing staff is merely referring to the SUVs bold, chrome plated grille with stylish winged logo set atop. Interestingly, while making reference to the 300, Chrysler says the grille is inspired by the absolutely gorgeous V10-powered Chrysler Chronos concept car that debuted at Cobo Hall in 1998, which is actually ovoid in shape, not rectangular. I suppose

The Aspen features completely unique body panels all-round, that are much softer in their form than those on Dodges Durango. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

the Aspens high-shouldered stance is 300ish too, but really, to most who have spent time with the Ram-brands new Durango, this Chrysler sport utility apple hasnt fallen too far from Dodges tree.
Just the same, there are completely unique body panels all-round that are much softer in their form than those on Dodges SUV, a new more rectangular front fascia with 300C-like circular fog lamps, simply shaped, rectangular tail lamps, compared to the tougher looking bulbous ones on the Durango, and just like the Crossfire, those classy vertical strakes embossed into the hood. The Aspen also features headlamp clusters that bulge slightly

Chrome is the highlighted theme here, with Chrysler even pointing out that "individual chromed "CHRYSLER" lettering adorns the body side on each of the front doors." (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

on their lower sections to imitate those on the 300, and optional 20-inch chrome-plated wheels that come close to mirroring the 19-inch chrome alloy rims available on the stylish Pacifica crossover, and I suppose those on the 300C as well.

Chrome is the highlighted theme here, with Chrysler even pointing out that "individual chromed "CHRYSLER" lettering adorns the body side on each of the front doors." Additionally, chrome trim can be found on the body-side moldings, door handles, side mirrors, belt molding and the roof rack, adding an upscale touch and separating it from its more common roots.

"With a unique and distinctive design, the all-new 2007

Those wanting to take advantage of Chrysler Groups industry might, may want to up the ante to the 5.7-liter HEMI V8. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

Chrysler Aspen brings a new look to the SUV segment," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design.  "Encompassing design cues from Chrysler 300 and Crossfire - including the signature chromed grille and sculpted hood - Chrysler Aspen is an elegant, yet striking premium SUV that is unmistakably Chrysler."

Sharing the almost full-size Durango platform is smart, of course, as it reduces lead time and costs, allowing the Aspen to come to market quicker at a more affordable price, which will be necessary if its going to attract a buyer who has been looking down-market, to smaller compact and mid-size SUVs in recent months. Of course, while the press material Chrysler provided speaks only of a range of gasoline-powered engines, starting

"Impressive off-the-line acceleration combined with enough torque to tow 8,950 lbs, Chrysler Aspen is a premium SUV where beauty is backed with brawn," commented Mike Donoughe, Vice President - Body-on-frame Product Team. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

with the automakers 4.7-liter V8 and finishing off, so far, with its class-dominating, cylinder-deactivation-equipped 5.7-liter HEMI V8, a new hybrid electric derivative is no doubt forthcoming, with a powertrain developed alongside the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, shown in Detroits Cobo Hall two days prior on Friday, January 8. Strange bedfellows? Maybe so, but if you cant beat Toyota, Honda, and now Ford to market with hybrid technology, youd better join forces with your enemys enemy, so to speak, which DaimlerChrysler has done with GM, and BMW. But Im getting ahead of myself.

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