2008 Chrysler Aspen Exterior Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 30 Aspen reviews and test drives.
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
Reviewers say the 2008 Chrysler Aspen takes macho styling cues from the Dodge Durango, but many feel the styling still falls flat, earning a good exterior styling score, but a middle-of-the-pack exterior ranking. Car and Driver reports that the Aspen was "clearly conceived to quell the chorus of Chrysler dealers that have grown tired of losing customers in search of something more macho than the limp-wristed Pacifica."
Car and Driver continues, "the Aspen was crafted from the proverbial rib of the Dodge Durango. Aspen clearly aspires for bigger garages, however, dressed as it is with a glitzy egg-crate grille, chrome-capped bumper and pinstriped hood." With a redesigned nose, the Aspen appears more conservative than other SUVs, with the outside chrome covering the grille, the roof rack, lower molding, door handles and side view mirrors. Cars.com notes, "Those familiar with the Durango will notice similarities, but there are enough differences to keep the Aspen from looking like a me-too knockoff. The crosscut grille is standard Chrysler fare, and the hood strakes mimic those on the Crossfire roadster and Sebring sedan."
Though fairly conservative, the Chrysler Aspen can be changed into a more glamorous vehicle. Kelley Blue Book recommends "Buyers who want to boost Aspen's bling factor can opt for the 20-inch, 10-spoke chrome rims. The Aspen otherwise strikes a traditional SUV profile, with beefy, squared-shoulder styling." This is not the only review that claims the Aspen lacks a unique or remotely stylized look. Without any personal additions to the Aspen, MSN warns, "if you're expecting some kind of blingy styling here, a la the Chrysler 300, you'll be disappointed. Indeed, the test Aspen looked so mainstream, no one on the road gave it a second glance, even though the Aspen was still making its way to showrooms at the time."
