2007 Chrysler Aspen

By Daniel Souza

I believe I am safe to assume that most things that are done for the very first time—a new task, a project, an idea, a car article—usually take more than just the first time to reach an improved level. You know what I’m talking about. For instance, no one rode a bicycle best for the very first time. It took time and a few bruises through the learning curve leading to freedom.

But unlike the normal path of perfection, I must give it to Chrysler. They have been able to come up with its first full-size SUV that boasts a near-perfect experience to driver and passenger.

Considered the “300” of SUVs, the 2007 Chrysler Aspen comes to the market with a plethora of amenities and luxuries adding another vehicle to the brand’s showroom.

Sure one can reside on how Chrysler Aspen’s front and rear fenders, rear doors and rear-quarter panels feature clean, precise angles, creating a seamless profile. Even dwell on the chromed accents on body-side moldings, door handles, side mirrors, beltline molding and roof rack, as well as available 20-inch chromed wheels, which add premium panache. But it was really both under the hood and in its interior where the new SUV emanated enough reasons almost convincing me to call Chrysler reps requesting another week with it. I didn’t. I wanted to, though.

The 2007 Aspen that spent only a short but memorable week here in Provo came equipped with the familiarly-known, optional 5.7-liter HEMI^® V-8 engine — featuring Chrysler Group’s fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS) — delivering best-in-class 335 horsepower and 370 lb.-ft. of torque. Without compromising performance, the all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen’s HEMI V-8 engine seamlessly alternates between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand.

The Aspen’s standard powertrain is the 235-horsepower 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 engine with 300 lb.-ft. of torque, providing constant and responsive performance. Both 4.7-liter and 5.7-liter V-8 engines are mated to a smooth-sailing five-speed automatic transmission

The all-new SUV offers two all-wheel-drive (AWD) electronic-shift transfer cases. A single-speed transfer case is standard with 4x4 models that feature the 4.7-liter V-8 engine. The single-speed transfer case provides all-wheel-drive (AWD) and four-wheel-drive “high” operating modes.

A two-speed transfer case is standard with 4x4 models that feature the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine (AWD). Chrysler Aspen’s two-speed transfer case features an all-wheel-drive (AWD) mode and four-wheel-drive “high” and “low” modes. Both transfer cases feature a 48-52 torque split between front and rear axles when AWD mode is selected.

The Aspen is available with a second-row 40/20/40 split bench seat or second-row bucket seats, each providing 11-degree reclining seat backs. Second-row bucket seats include a center console with dual cup holders, covered storage area and adjustable air outlets.

A flip-down, roof-mounted DVD screen is available for rear-seat occupants and a theater-style surround-sound audio system comes complete with eight Infinity^® speakers. An available power rear liftgate opens with the convenient touch of a button to provide easy loading and unloading of gear. In addition, rear doors open 84 degrees to provide passengers with easy entry and exit. The SUV also offers a generous 68.4 cu. ft. of cargo room with the third-row seats folded.

Expect 14 mpg for in-city driving. Freeway numbers should linger around 19 mpg.

Base Price - $31,555

Price as tested - $45,170

Daniel Souza can be reached at sixth.gear.herald@gmail.com or visit his blog at http://sixthgearherald.blogspot.com