What is the Chrysler Aspen based off of?
The Chrysler Aspen is a full‑size SUV produced from 2007 to 2009. It is based on the Dodge Durango’s platform, meaning it shares the same underlying chassis and many components with the Durango. In practical terms, the Aspen is built on the Durango’s architecture, with its own styling and features.
Overview and context
The Aspen was introduced to fill a niche in Chrysler’s SUV lineup by offering a three‑row, body‑on‑frame SUV with premium touches. It carried distinctive exterior styling and interior features, but relied on the same engineering foundation as the Dodge Durango. This relationship meant buyers could expect similar ride characteristics, powertrain options, and drivetrain configurations as the Durango.
Platform and shared components
The following points outline the core aspects the Aspen took from the Durango.
- Platform and chassis: Built on the Dodge Durango’s platform, sharing the same underlying architecture and construction.
- Powertrain options: Available with engines used in the Durango, including the 4.7L V8 and the 5.7L Hemi V8, paired with corresponding transmission options.
- Drivetrain and versatility: Offered rear‑wheel drive or four‑wheel drive configurations similar to the Durango’s offerings.
- Suspension and handling: Shared suspension design and tuning characteristics with the Durango, contributing to comparable ride quality.
In practical terms, these shared components meant the Aspen offered similar performance, capability, and reliability as the Dodge Durango, but with Chrysler branding and unique trim levels.
Why the shared platform mattered
By basing the Aspen on the Durango platform, Chrysler leveraged established engineering and supply chains, enabling a three‑row, capable SUV without developing an all‑new chassis from scratch. This approach allowed for a quicker rollout of a premium‑styled SUV that could compete in the growing full‑size segment while leveraging proven drivetrains and parts common with the Durango lineup.
Context within Chrysler’s lineup
During its brief run (model years 2007–2009), the Aspen complemented Chrysler’s more luxury‑focused offerings and helped fill the gap between minivans and larger, truck‑based SUVs. Its discontinuation came as Chrysler reorganized its SUV strategy and later redesigned related models.
Summary
In short, the Chrysler Aspen is based on the Dodge Durango’s platform, sharing its chassis, engines, transmissions, and other key components while delivering distinct styling and features. This relationship defined its performance, capabilities, and market positioning during its brief production window.
Notes
For readers comparing SUVs from the era, the Aspen represents how Chrysler leveraged the Durango’s proven engineering to deliver a premium three‑row SUV under a different brand identity, before broader restructuring and model realignments in the following years.
Is the Chrysler Aspen body on frame?
Overview. The Aspen rides and handles well for such a large, body-on-frame SUV. The optional Hemi engine upgrade delivers ample acceleration.
What body is a Dodge Aspen?
Dodge Aspen
| Plymouth Volaré / Dodge Aspen | |
|---|---|
| Body style | 4-door wagon 4-door sedan 2-door coupe |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | F-platform |
| Related | Monteverdi Sierra |
Why was the Chrysler Aspen discontinued?
The Chrysler Aspen was discontinued due to a combination of low sales, a failure to appeal to luxury buyers, and the economic downturn of 2008. It was essentially a rebadged Dodge Durango, which meant it didn't stand out enough from its Dodge counterpart or provide enough luxury to justify its price, leading to poor sales numbers. The 2008 recession further depressed sales, and the closure of the plant that manufactured both the Aspen and Durango sealed its fate.
- Low Sales: The Aspen was not a commercial success, with total sales figures being much lower than expected, making its continued production unsustainable.
- Lack of Differentiation: As a rebadged Dodge Durango, the Aspen was perceived as a less luxurious version of the Durango, failing to attract buyers who were looking for a more upscale SUV.
- Economic Downturn: The 2008 financial crisis led to a sharp decline in sales for large SUVs, and the Aspen was caught in the downturn.
- Production Facility Closure: The plant where both the Aspen and the Durango were built, the Newark Assembly facility in Delaware, was closed in late 2008, which directly contributed to the discontinuation of the Aspen.
- Uncertain Market Position: The Aspen occupied an awkward middle ground, failing to satisfy either buyers seeking a rugged, traditional SUV or those desiring a refined luxury vehicle.
Are Chrysler Aspen reliable?
Chrysler Aspen reliability is considered average to below average, with some sources citing issues such as common electrical problems, AC malfunctions, and transmission concerns. While some owners report a positive experience, especially with specific powertrains, the vehicle as a whole is noted for reliability issues common in Chrysler vehicles from that era.
This video explains the history, major flaws, and reasons for the cancellation of the Chrysler Aspen: 1mMarspeedYouTube · Jun 10, 2019
Specific reliability issues
- Electrical and accessory problems: Owners have reported issues with remote start, security systems, and hard drive failures in the radio.
- Transfer case: The transfer case is a specific concern for the 2009 model, with common issues involving the shift motor failing or being open.
- Air bags: Both the 2007 and 2008 models have recalls concerning the airbag inflators, which may rupture due to propellant degradation.
- Other recurring problems: Other issues include AC malfunctions, premature fuel nozzle shut-offs, and transmission torque converter defects.
- Exhaust system: Exhaust manifold bolts are known to break frequently.
Positive owner experiences
- Some owners report that their Aspen has run well, with only routine maintenance required.
- For some models, particularly those with a Hemi engine, owners have reported good performance and reliability.
Overall ratings
- RepairPal: Rates the Chrysler Aspen with a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.
- iSeeCars: Assigns the Aspen a reliability score of 7.4 out of 10 based on average lifespan and other factors.
- J.D. Power: Gives the 2008 Aspen an average "Quality & Reliability" rating of 79/100.
Conclusion
The Chrysler Aspen's reliability is mixed, with many common problems reported across various systems. While some individual owners have had positive experiences, the vehicle's overall reliability is considered average to below average due to factors like electrical issues and specific transmission problems.
