By Drew Johnson
Tuesday, Jun 17th, 2008 @ 1:54 pm

Although large SUVs have fallen out of favor with U.S. consumers in the last few months, Chrysler is hoping that hybrid versions of its largest utility vehicles will help sway consumer demand. The Chrysler Aspen Hybrid and Dodge Durango Hybrid are slated to begin rolling into dealer showrooms in just a few weeks and Chrysler today announced pricing for both vehicles.
The Dodge Durango Hybrid will list from $45,340 while the up-level Chrysler Aspen Hybrid will list from $45,570. Both prices include an $800 destination charge.

While most hybrids focus on efficiency, both vehicles will be equipped with Chrysler ’s 5.7L HEMI V8 which, when combined with the hybrid drivetrain, produces a robust 385 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Chrysler claims that both hybrids can tow 6,000 pounds.

To further fuel savings, both SUVs will come equipped with Chrysler’s MDS technology, which allows the engine to run on just four-cylinders.

Official EPA fuel economy ratings have yet to be released, but we expect the Chrysler twins to return mileage similar to GM’s full-size hybrids – somewhere in the neighborhood of 21/22 mpg city/highway. However, unlike GM’s full-size hybrids, Chrysler’s will be priced much more reasonably – saving buyers at least $6,000.

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