The Chrysler Aspen, produced for a brief period between 2006 and 2008, was a full-size SUV intended to fill a gap in Chrysler’s lineup between the mid-size Durango and the larger, more luxurious Cadillac Escalade. Built on the Chrysler LL platform (shared with the Dodge Durango), the Aspen aimed to provide a more refined experience than its Dodge counterpart, focusing on interior comfort and a smoother ride. The 4.7i V8 with an automatic transmission represented the base engine option for the Aspen, offering a balance of power and affordability within the model range. It was positioned as the entry-level trim, appealing to buyers needing substantial towing capacity and passenger space without the higher price tag of the optional 5.7L HEMI V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Aspen |
| Generation | Aspen |
| Type (Engine) | 4.7 i V8 16V (235 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2006 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50 Hp/l |
| Torque | 393 Nm @ 3600 rpm (289.86 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EVA |
| Engine displacement | 4701 cm3 (286.87 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2204 kg (4858.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2948 kg (6499.23 lbs.) |
| Max load | 744 kg (1640.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 538 l (19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2900 l (102.41 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 102 l (26.95 US gal | 22.44 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3402 kg (7500.13 lbs.) |
| Length | 5101 mm (200.83 in.) |
| Width | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Height | 1887 mm (74.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3027 mm (119.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1637 mm (64.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1636 mm (64.41 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 254 mm (10 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.391 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 336×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 352×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Aspen 4.7i was the Chrysler EVA engine, a 4.7-liter (286.87 cubic inch) V8. This engine, part of Chrysler’s second-generation small-block V8 family, featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate, though not exceptional, performance. The 4.7L V8 produced 235 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine was mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for full-size SUVs prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. This transmission was designed for smooth shifting and reliable operation, but wasn’t known for particularly quick acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7L V8 and five-speed automatic combination in the Aspen delivered adequate, but not thrilling, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for everyday driving and highway merging, but the Aspen wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfort and fuel economy rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the optional 5.7L HEMI V8, the 4.7L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or towing. The HEMI offered significantly more horsepower and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and improved towing capacity. However, the 4.7L provided a smoother, more relaxed driving experience, and its fuel economy was marginally better.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Aspen 4.7i typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels added features such as leather seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, power-adjustable pedals, and various chrome exterior accents. The interior design was generally considered comfortable and spacious, with seating for up to eight passengers. The focus was on providing a family-friendly environment with ample cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The Aspen’s chassis featured an independent torsion bar suspension in the front and an elastic beam (solid axle) suspension in the rear. This setup provided a reasonably comfortable ride, but wasn’t particularly sporty. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while rear brakes were solid discs. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for a balance of ride comfort and stability, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. The rear elastic beam suspension was a cost-saving measure compared to a fully independent rear suspension, but it did limit the Aspen’s handling capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Aspen received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its unremarkable performance and relatively poor fuel economy. Compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition, the Aspen was often seen as less refined and less powerful. The 4.7L V8 engine was considered adequate for basic tasks, but it lacked the punch of the larger V8 engines offered by competitors. Fuel economy was a significant drawback, averaging around 15 mpg in combined driving. The Aspen’s short production run suggests it didn’t achieve significant sales success.
Legacy
The Chrysler Aspen was discontinued after only two model years, largely due to lackluster sales and the introduction of updated models from competitors. The 4.7L V8 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to issues with the exhaust manifold bolts breaking and oil leaks developing over time. Today, the Aspen 4.7i can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance issues associated with the engine and transmission. The Aspen remains a relatively uncommon vehicle, and parts availability may be limited in some areas. Despite its shortcomings, the Aspen offered a spacious and comfortable SUV experience for those seeking a full-size vehicle on a budget.
