Chrysler Aspen -- First Drive: Read the classifieds in your local paper and you’re sure to find a Dodge dealer advertising Durangos for rock bottom prices. Chances are, in fact, that if you were to offer to wash the thing – maybe spring for lunch – there’s a starving salesman out there who might let you take one home for free. Given this, it makes little sense to trot that Durango out as a rebadged Chrysler Aspen, without significant upgrades. It’s all about timing, after all, and in the case of the Aspen bad timing has turned this quiet and comfortable SUV into an afterthought.

Among automotive circles, the Aspen will forever be recalled fondly as the SUV that caused a blizzard inside Cobo Hall at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. Truly, it was the most amazing experience, to have thousands of tiny tissues blown in your direction at a high velocity. The dramatic effect was impressive, with the SUV standing proud on the stage as the storm blew over. Then the assembled crowd saw that it was just a Durango with hood strakes. Too bad. The memory of the conference will last far longer than the vehicle, even though it’s their first SUV.

Available in one trim with an optional 4x4 configuration, the 2007 Chrysler Aspen starts at a sticker price of $31,490 including a $745 destination charge. Don’t be fooled; much of what you’ll probably want on your Aspen comes as an option, and my, my, the price can climb. For the base price, you do standard fare such as a 4.7-liter V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED interior lighting, express up and down windows, a leather-wrapped center console lid and steering wheel, YES Essentials fabric, plus more. Safety treats include an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), anti-lock brakes and front and side curtain air bags and a tire pressure monitoring (TPM) system.

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