Acceleration

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
4	5	6.2

The 4.7-liter V8 is strong off the line, but lacks passing/merging punch. 5.7-liter Hemi V8 delivers plenty of power at all speeds, though 5.7 Aspens feel no faster than V6-powered Acura MDX or Cadillac SRX. Maximum towing capacity is 8950 lb.

Fuel Economy

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
2	2	3.6

Test AWD with 4.7 V8 averaged 15.2 mpg in mostly highway driving. 4.7-liter V8 uses regular-grade fuel. Chrysler recommends 89-octane for 5.7 V8.

Ride Quality

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
6	6	5.7

Generally comfortable and controlled for a truck-type SUV. Mostly devoid of sloppy motions.

Steering/Handling/Braking

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
4	4	5.6

Good grip and modest lean in corners--impressive for a vehicle this large and heavy. Steering, however, would benefit from less power assist and more road feel.

Quietness

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
6	6	6.5

Chrysler says Aspen has more sound insulation than Durango. Road noise decently muted, but certain surfaces can induce audible tire roar. Highway-speed wind rush evident from outside mirrors. Engine noise from either V8 well muffled in all but full-throttle acceleration.

Controls

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	6.5

Big gauges easy to locate at a glance, though small dial markings may frustrate some drivers. Controls logically arranged and clearly marked. Cabin materials notably upmarket of similar Dodge Durango.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	7.3

Ample leg and head room, even beneath sunroof housing. High, commanding view of the road. Thick front roof pillars obstruct view around corners. Good rear visibility, aided by large outside mirrors. Entry/exit requires large step-up.

Room/Comfort (rear)

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
7	7	6.3

Second row has good head, leg, toe room, and seatback reclines within a modest range. Second row flips and folds with one hand to allow access to 3rd row. Third row can accommodate adults for short trips, but seat lacks thigh support.

Cargo Room

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
8	8	7.8

Volume among best in class. Second- and 3rd-row seats fold to create nearly flat floor. Single-piece 3rd-row bench seat can be folded only from inside the vehicle, and only after cushion is moved forward. Available 3rd-row split folding seat can be folded in an easy one-step operation from outside tailgate area. Note that automatic liftgate lacks tailgate button for power close. Plenty of in-cabin storage, including deep center console and large, useful console tray.

Value within Class

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
6	6	5.9

Aspen may appear little more than a dressed-up Dodge Durango, but a smoother ride, reduced noise levels, and markedly upscale cabin trim make it a more enjoyable vehicle. Aspen's reasonable pricing means it costs only about $1000 more than a comparably equipped Durango, as well. Aspen is worth a look for luxury shoppers who can use the towing and hauling utility of a truck-type SUV, but don't covet the mass and excess of a Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator.

Total Score

AWD Limited, 4.7 V8	AWD Limited, 5.7 V8	Class Average
57	58	61.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		54
Average Score		61
High Score		82