The Chrysler Aspen 5.7i V8 4WD Automatic, produced for the 2006 and 2007 model years, represented Chrysler’s entry into the full-size SUV market segment, aiming to compete with offerings from Chevrolet, Ford, and GMC. Built on a truck-based platform, the Aspen shared its underpinnings with the Dodge Durango, but offered a more refined interior and a focus on comfort and luxury. This particular variant, equipped with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Aspen lineup, providing a balance of power, capability, and features. Production was relatively short-lived, discontinued after the 2007 model year due to shifting market demands and Chrysler’s restructuring.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Aspen |
| Generation | Aspen |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7 i V8 16V (335 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 335 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 502 Nm @ 4200 rpm (370.26 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EZB |
| Engine displacement | 5654 cm3 (345.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15.8 l (16.7 US qt | 13.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2324 kg (5123.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3039 kg (6699.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 715 kg (1576.31 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%) | 3289 kg (7251 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 permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, 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 | 265/60 R18; 265/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Aspen 5.7i was the EZB engine code 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This engine featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and utilized Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System (MDS), a cylinder deactivation technology that allowed the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions to improve fuel economy. The engine employed a single overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, and a multi-point fuel injection system. The 5.7L HEMI produced 335 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 370 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. Paired with this engine was a five-speed automatic transmission (545RFE), known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and provide adequate performance for towing and hauling.
Driving Characteristics
The Aspen 5.7i 4WD Automatic offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented SUV, the 5.7-liter HEMI provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. Acceleration was brisk, and the automatic transmission shifted smoothly, although it wasn’t as responsive as some of the newer transmissions available in competing models. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather and on off-road surfaces. Compared to the base 4.7-liter V8 Aspen, the 5.7-liter version offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration and towing capacity. However, it came at the cost of slightly reduced fuel economy. The gear ratios in the 545RFE transmission were tuned for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with a relatively conservative first gear for smooth starts and a higher final drive ratio for highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Aspen 5.7i typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, power-adjustable pedals, and a sunroof. The interior design was generally considered to be more upscale than that of the Dodge Durango, with a focus on comfort and refinement. The Aspen offered three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Aspen utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured an independent torsion bar setup with a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a solid axle with coil springs. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, but didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as some independent rear suspension setups. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard equipment. The Aspen’s relatively heavy weight (over 5,000 lbs) meant that braking distances were longer than those of lighter vehicles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chrysler Aspen received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and powerful engine, it was criticized for its relatively poor fuel economy and somewhat dated design. Compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition, the Aspen offered a more refined interior but lacked the same level of brand recognition and resale value. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine provided competitive performance, but its fuel consumption was higher than that of some of the smaller engines offered in competing models. Reliability was generally considered to be average, with some reports of issues with the transmission and electrical systems.
Legacy
The Chrysler Aspen was a relatively short-lived model, but it remains a popular choice among used car buyers looking for a large, capable SUV. The 5.7-liter HEMI engine is known for its durability and relatively easy maintenance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the transmission and electrical systems. The Aspen’s body-on-frame construction makes it a good choice for towing and hauling, but it also contributes to its relatively high weight and fuel consumption. Today, the Aspen represents a unique chapter in Chrysler’s SUV history, offering a blend of American muscle and understated luxury.
