The hybrid-electric versions of Chrysler LLC's Aspen and Dodge Durango full-size SUVs have been government-rated as 40 percent more fuel-efficient than the standard versions.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency rates the two full-size SUVs at 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, according to both AutoBeat Daily and AutoTech Daily.
Both vehicles use the “dual-mode” hybrid system co-developed at a laboratory in Troy by Chrysler with General Motors Corp. and BMW.
The system uses engine shutoff at idle and all-electric operation at low speeds to improve city mileage, and cylinder deactivation at highway speeds to improve highway mileage.
But the SUVs still pack a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine that produces up to 400 hp and can tow 6,000 pounds.
The hybrid Chrysler 4x4 trucks also best the 20/20 mpg rating of the 4x4 versions of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon hybrid models.
The two Chrysler hybrid SUVs are base priced at about $45,000. This compares to about $50,000 for the Chevy and GMC models.
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