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The Chrysler Aspen looks like a lot of other full-size SUVs, but we found it attracted admiring looks and inquiries. Chrysler styling cues set the Aspen apart from the Dodge Durango.The grille, with bold crossbars and classic Chrysler medallion, attempts to stake a claim for the Aspen at the top of the brand's pyramid. Strangely, low-key headlamp units diminish the claim, which isn't helped by the bland bumper and generic fog lamps. Embossed strakes in the hood run back to the windshield and carry on the newest Chrysler-brand styling motif. This styling element, which first appeared on the Chrysler Crossfire and then the redesigned Sebring, is seemingly inspired by the jewel-like cap on the famous Chrysler Building in New York City. The side view offers the proportions and features typical for a traditional SUV. The swept-back windshield looks sleek and shows homage to aerodynamics. The optional running boards do a better job of dirtying trousers and long skirts than serving as truly functional steps. Mildly creased, visually pleasant blisters circle the wheelwell openings. A chrome-topped, overstated molding strip pulls double duty, breaking up the expanse of metal between the front and rear wheel cutouts while insulating the doors against parking lot dings. Side mirrors proudly perch on brackets extending from the base of the A-pillars (the side frames of the windshield). A slight ridge defining the beltline (where the side windows meet the lower body panels) extends beyond the base of the rear pillars, accenting the graceful outline of the rear quarter windows. A short front overhang and tucked-up lower hindquarters invite thoughts of venturing off the highway to explore an unpaved track. It's the rear aspect of the Aspen that has the most presence, the view most will have of it in traffic. A strong rear bumper with a deep, non-skid clad step cups the one-piece liftgate. Chrome-like trim on the bumper's end caps tie into the side molding strip. The medallion-and-wing treatment from the grille repeats above the stylized license plate recess. Gently bowed sides and a rounded top give the back end a smaller, less massive look than the rest of the vehicle. A conservatively sized notch centered in the bumper's lower edge makes room for the optional hitch receiver and junction box.
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