2009 Chrysler Aspen:
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen gains a Hybrid model, more power for its Hemi V-8 engine, available Sirius Backseat TV, and a larger hard-drive audio/navigation system for 2009. The 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine gets 30 more horsepower, up to 365, and 20 more lb.-ft. of torque for a total of 390. The optional rear DVD entertainment system now comes with Sirius Backseat TV including three child-friendly channels: Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Chrysler’s hard-drive radio, formerly called MyGIG, is now known as UConnect Tunes and UConnect GPS when teamed with a navigation system. The hard drive is expanded from 20 to 30 gigabytes.
The biggest news, though, is the Aspen Hybrid model. Chrysler says the new 2-mode hybrid system boosts city fuel economy by 40 percent and overall fuel economy by more than 25 percent. The Aspen Hybrid is only offered with AWD and in Limited trim. In addition to the Aspen Limited model’s standard equipment, the hybrid adds leather upholstery, a rear back-up camera, and Chrysler’s hard-drive-based UConnect GPS hard-drive radio with navigation system. It also has a power gauge that shows when the electric motors are aiding the Hemi V-8 engine or being charged. The power gauge has a green “economy” zone that drivers can use to aim for optimal fuel economy.
Developed with BMW, General Motors and Mercedes-Benz, the Aspen’s 2-mode hybrid system is shared with the new round of big hybrid SUVs and pickups from General Motors. In the Aspen, it features the Hemi 5.7-liter V-8 engine teamed with a new electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT). The ECVT has two electric motors and four fixed gears. One of the motors aids power at low speeds and the other at highway speeds. The Hemi V-8 engine also has Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System, which shuts down four cylinders under light load conditions to conserve fuel. Total output is 385 hp at 5300 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm. Regenerative braking charges the batteries. Chrysler says the Aspen hybrid can run on electric power alone up to 25 mph. The 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid is rated to tow up to 6000 pounds compared to the 8700 pounds for a standard AWD model. Sales start in mid-2008.
