2008 Chrysler Aspen in Lakewood, NJ - $4,500

Chrysler ups the ante in SUV performance and fuel economy with the debut of the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid. The two-mode hybrid is combined with fuel-saving Multi-displacement system (MDS) engine technology to deliver an overall improvement of more than 25 percent in fuel economy and up to a 40 percent improvement in the city.

The automaker's advanced state-of-the-art two-mode full hybrid system was developed in partnership with General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and The BMW Group. It delivers a "two-mode" full hybrid system by integrating proven automatic-transmission technology with a patented hybrid-electric drive system. The two modes in the hybrid system result from low- and high-speed electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) modes.

During the two ECVT modes, the system uses electric motors for acceleration, improving fuel economy, or for regenerative braking to utilize energy that would normally be lost during braking or deceleration. The energy is stored in a 300-volt battery pack for later use. The system's two modes are optimized for city and highway driving.

In addition, there are four fixed gear ratios for high efficiency and power-handling capabilities. The first mode is designed for low speeds and light loads. In this mode, the vehicle can operate in three ways: electric power only, engine power only, or any combination of electric and engine power. In electric-only operation, the engine is shut off, with the vehicle moving under electric-only power at low speed. The result is a significant reduction in fuel consumption in heavy stop-and-go traffic.

The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds. In addition to electric assist, the second mode provides full power from the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 when conditions demand it, such as when passing, pulling a trailer or climbing a steep grade.

A sophisticated controller determines when the vehicle should operate in the first or second mode. Input from the controller determines the necessary torque for driving conditions and sends a corresponding command to the engine and electric motors.

The engine and electric motors transfer torque to a series of gears in the transmission, which multiply torque similar to a conventional automatic transmission in order to propel the vehicle.

Unlike conventional continuously variable transmissions, however, the two-mode full hybrid's electrically controlled system uses no mechanical belts or bands. Shifts between the two modes do not require engine speed changes, resulting in seamless accelerations.

A 300-volt battery pack provides electric power for the system, and is designed to fit in the vehicle without compromising passenger space. A rectifier located under the vehicle's hood converts AC to DC in order to power conventional 12-volt accessories including interior lighting, climate control and the audio system. The Chrysler Aspen Hybrid's 5.7-liter HEMI engine efficiently maintains the battery pack.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 119.2; overall length: 200.8; width: 76.0; height: 74.3 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 5.7L HEMI V8 Hybrid -- 385 hp and 380 lbs-ft of torque.

Transmission: electronic continuously variable transmission with four fixed gears.

EPA fuel economy: 20 city/22 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 102.4 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 6,000 lbs.

Parts content -- country of origin

Final assembly point: Newark, Del.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, side curtain airbags with roll sensing technology, electronic stability program, security alarm, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitor, battery saver, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, fog lamps, HomeLink universal transceiver, automatic headlamps, power adjustable pedals, automatic power door locks, ParkSense rear park assist system, ParkView rear back-up camera and power liftgate.

Optional safety features include factory installed remote engine start system and GPS navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV starts from $44,770. Destination charge adds $800.

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