When GM introduced its first true hybrid powertrains earlier this year in the GMC Yukon and Chevy Tahoe, it marked the debut of the company's new dual-mode technology, co-developed along with the former DaimlerChrysler, and BMW. But the vehicles haven't sold well as of yet, forcing the automaker to launch a major media campaign and offer incentives to build interest. Now it's Chrysler's turn to bring a pair of hybrid full-size SUVs to market, and Auburn Hills will offer them at a price that significantly undercuts the competition.
The 2009 Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen Hemi Hybrids will start at $45,340 and $45,570, respectively, an average of $8k less than the General's counterparts. Both feature a dual-mode hybrid system hooked up to the famed 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, which also uses Chrysler's MDS technology to run on just four-cylinders when less power is needed. Altogether the system makes 385 horsepower and 380 lb-ft. of torque and has a 6000 pound towing capacity, yet manages 25 percent better fuel economy than its non-hybrid cousins (up to 20 mpg city/20 highway).
In addition to their competitive MSRPs, Chrysler is hoping to build interest in its first entries into to hybrid market by touting their estimated tax credit of $1800. This brings the Aspen and Durango into the same price range as a base Lexus RX400h, while offering a larger vehicle with seating for eight and a long list of standard equipment. Then again, the standard four-wheel drive Durango and Aspen with a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 currently sell for about $35,675 and $38,945, though they also drink considerably more gas (13 mpg city/18 highway). So if you're in the market for a full-size SUV but don't like dropping large portions of your paycheck at the pump, both of Chrysler's dual-mode hybrids will arrive in showrooms this August.
Read the below press release for more detials:
Pricing Announced for 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI(R) Hybrids
As Chrysler LLC goes green, customers will save some "green."
Chrysler announced today that it is pricing its full-size 4x4 sport-utility vehicle (SUV) hybrid electric vehicles nearly $8,000 below the competition.
The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the new 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI(R) Hybrid is $45,340, including $800 for destination. The MSRP for the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid is $45,570, including $800 for destination. Additionally, customers are expected to receive an estimated tax credit of $1,800.
"The new 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid deliver fuel economy up to 20 miles per gallon - a 40 percent improvement in the city and 25 percent overall - best-in-class cargo room, and are priced nearly $8,000 below the competition," said Deborah Meyer, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer - Chrysler LLC. "Offering the unique combination of value, fuel economy, performance and capability, Chrysler's hybrid vehicles deliver exactly what SUV owners are demanding in today's marketplace."
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler's first entries in the hybrid market.
Capable of towing 6,000 lbs., the 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles deliver seamless, dependable power and performance on demand, in an efficient package. With an electrically variable transmission - featuring the best characteristics of an automatic transmission and hybrid drive - and two different hybrid modes of operation, the drive system dramatically improves fuel economy around town and at highway speeds.
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid are coupled with Chrysler's renowned 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Total output, when combined with the advanced two-mode hybrid system, is 385 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. In hybrid form, the HEMI continues to feature Chrysler's fuel-saving MDS technology, which allows the engine to seamlessly alternate between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. The two-mode system provides assistance from electric motors, allowing the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often than without a hybrid powertrain, improving overall fuel economy.
The result: In typical use, Chrysler expects customers will reduce fuel consumption by several hundred gallons of gas per year.
Built at the Newark Assembly Plant in Delaware, the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles arrive in showrooms this August.
Source: Chrysler