FCA is thinking of expanding its SUV portfolio. We will definitely see the full-size model when the Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer enters production. There are also a few premium models, but the company doesn’t have a luxury branch like most other carmakers. That is why the 2021 Chrysler Aspen comeback is needed.
The badge was used for Dodge models in the past. But, in 2007, Chrysler launched the SUV based on Durango. It was a luxurious model with many advanced features, a vehicle that should be a rival to Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. But, the plan failed. The economic crisis caused slow sales and the company discontinued the lineup in 2009. Instead, FCA offers a premium Citadel package for Dodge Durango as the replacement.
Since the market is growing, more and more different classes appear. Many companies have special luxury departments for premium vehicles. Lincoln is owned by Ford, Cadillac is GM’s sister, all three leading Japanese manufacturers are also going out with different logos in the luxury segment, and even Hyundai launched the SUV under a different nameplate – Genesis. So, FCA could revive the Chrysler lineup, which is now down to only three vehicles – Pacifica minivan, it’s smaller brother Voyager and luxury Chrysler 300 sedan.
Rumors and Facts
There are no official announcements or any hints by the FCA that the 2021 Chrysler Aspen could come back. That is the major factor that makes everyone be suspicious about it. Another reason is the COVID-19 pandemic, a thing that slowed the entire automotive industry. With the questionable sales, it is not smart experimenting. But, the FCA could take another approach, since many companies gave up on launching new vehicles. And finally, the demand for luxury vehicles is not too big.
On the other hand, premium classes generate more profit than standard lineups. The pessimistic approach by others will leave more room for the 2021 Aspen. And finally – the FCA needs a luxury brand. Yes, there are Jeeps that can be called premium models with high-end packages. But, the carmaker needs a logo that makes a statement, and the Chrysler is a perfect player.
Of course, it is not all about the naming. The company needs to develop new units, bring different designs, and update its offer. But, with so popular models in Jeep lineup, and powerful drivetrains, it won’t be hard making the Aspen an eye-catching SUV.
Engines
If there is any question about the 2021 Chrysler Aspen, it is not related to the drivetrain. The FCA will have to respond to all needs of the upcoming SUV. More than ten years ago, it was 200 inches long. So, it could land in the full-size segment. For such vehicles, FCA will deliver either 5.7-liter or 6.4-liter displacements, both with eight cylinders. In the first case, owners can count on 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. That is slightly worse than Toyota Land Cruiser and Infiniti QX80 can do. On the other hand, a 6.4-liter V8 can produce 475 horsepower, which would put Aspen ahead of Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.
That is not all, since the carmaker also delivers a new 3.0 EcoDiesel configuration. With 260 hp and 480 lb-ft, it will be the best unit for towing. On the other hand, oil-burners won’t be around for too long. Instead, hybrid and PHEV variants will replace them. FCA is already in that market with Wrangler. But, the full-size luxury model could make a statement by using a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 powerplant, well-known as the Hellcat. In this case, the power output will go over 700 horsepower, like we see in Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, Dodge Durango SRT, or Ram 1500 Rebel TRX truck.
Special Equipment and Accessories
The 2021 Chrysler Aspen will feature the best the FCA can offer. That includes a new infotainment system. The Uconnect 5.0 is on the way, and the SUV is going to present it in the best light. Plus, it will offer the most options in the luxury model. Large screen, premium audio, advanced voice commands, and navigation should be standard. The luxury SUV will need adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and lane switch assist. Leather upholstery and heated/ventilated seats are available at high-end trims levels of other FCA vehicles.
2021 Chrysler Aspen Price, Release Date
Being a luxury SUV means the price will be beyond the limits for many buyers. Mid-size luxury models are slightly less expensive, but the full-size version is not going to be under $75,000. If a 6.2-liter engine appears, the price will be over $80,000, while SUVs with Hellcat engine are already above. On the other hand, the high-output edition would make the 2021 Chrysler Aspen one of the hottest vehicles at dealerships and on the road. We believe it won’t be cheaper than $120,000 and the price might go up to $150k. We will know more early in 2021 when the company announces plans for the season.
