Following its introduction in 2007, Chrysler's upscale Aspen Limited SUV changes little for 2008. Although it borrows many of its elements from the Dodge Durango, the Aspen Limited offers distinctive styling, a wide variety of standard features and options, and a choice of two engines designed to improve fuel efficiency.
At the lower end of the power scale, the Aspen Limited's 303-horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 engine, which comes standard, includes "flex-fuel" capability, so it can run on E85 fuel, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. For those who prefer more power under the hood, the Aspen can be ordered with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine, which delivers 335 horsepower. The Hemi V8 comes equipped with a Multiple-Displacement System, which automatically shuts off four cylinders when they're not required to conserve fuel.
The 2008 Aspen Limited comes well-equipped with such features as wood-grain interior trim, low-back bucket front seats, a luxury steering wheel, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with Alpine speakers, an MP3 input jack, and Sirius satellite radio. Antilock brakes, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and advanced multistage front airbags are also among the standard features. A power rear liftgate, power sunroof, heated front seats, and rear backup camera are among the options. The Aspen Limited can seat up to eight passengers, and the second- and third-row seats can be easily reconfigured for cargo.
As far as the Aspen Limited's ride and handling are concerned, some drivers and reviewers note that the Aspen displays some body sway under hard cornering, and its ride can feel floaty at times, rather than tight and precise. Braking also can be soft, some drivers note. However, an Electronic Stability Program, available as an option, helps improve the Aspen's ride, handling, and stability.
