Hybrid Hemi Chrysler Aspen On The Way in 08

The headline says it all. Chrysler is planning to release a Hemi-powered hybrid engine in 2008 under the hood of the Aspen SUV, along with its Dodge Durango twin. The company claims the hybrid system – jointly developed with BMW and GM (minus the Hemi of course) — will deliver 25% better fuel economy and 40% better efficiency in the city.

There are no exact mileage estimates, but using the current gas-powered Hemi Aspen’s EPA figures — 14/19 mpg city/highway — this would bring city mileage up to 19.6 mpg, with the highway seeing much less of an increase, up to just more than 23 mpg. All figures are using the 2007 EPA guidelines.

The company doesn’t say if horsepower or torque will be increased, but they should be higher than the current 335 hp and 375 pounds-feet of torque. There’s also no mention of an exact release date but it will definitely be in calendar year 2008. The thinking behind such a move probably has to do with the fact that poor mileage has hurt large SUV sales along with the fact that the cost of such systems will likely be more easily absorbed in a higher priced vehicle.

Related
The Suburban Dad Takes on the 2007 Chrysler Aspen (KickingTires)
2007 Chrysler Aspen Expert Review (Cars.com)
EPA Releases Official 2008 Mileage Calculator (KickingTires)
New MPG Figures Coming (KickingTires)

Comments

fueleconomy.gov lists 2008 Durango 4WD 5.7 at 13/18, combined 15mpg. A 25% improvement = 18.75mpg, minivan territory.

Consumer Reports got 12mpg combined, so if you use that figure, 25% better is 15mpg.

But what will Chrysler do about the ugly Aspen body?

Hmmm, the Aspen isn't doing well. Let's put a Hemi in it! That always works! No wait, a hybrid Hemi that gets an extra mile per gallon as a big bucks option! I know, let's make the grille even bigger, put 22 inch wheels on it and throw in some cutesy novelty "features" like illuminated cupholders and a detachable dome light. I bet Daimler won't want to dump us now!

Ya know, there aren't very many ways to polish a turd.

Does anyone else want to see a hybrid Hemi Challenger? That combination has to be good for 500 ft-lbs of torque. In a word: sweet.

Sounds like the tack Honda took with the hybrid Accord. Make the most powerful version the hybrid that gets a little more power and a little more fuel efficiency. That way when you pay the premium for the hybrid, you get a little more fun, with a little more responsibility.
Sounded like a plausible business plan, but it didn't really do too well. Is there any reason to believe that this vehicle would be any different? I mean, it is an SUV instead of a car, and not a best seller, but does that matter?

it'll also be able to tow a lot more.

Where is Chrysler's own 6 speed automatic?

They should put a Mercedes Turbo Diesel, but I believe Mercedes is just destroying Chrisler to sell it quickly. (You can see it in Europe where they overprice Chrysler, Dodges and Jeeps).

The design is not that bad as you thought. But it has to be improve. Personally, I would not buy this hybrid until it has great innovation done on its chrysler parts.

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Why would I want a Chrysler 300 Hemi ?