Yeah, it’s got a Hemi

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Under the Hood

Yes, it’s got a Hemi. Packed under the hood of the 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrid and 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid is a stout 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine featuring variable-valve timing, reworked heads, and the brand’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) that cuts power to four cylinders under light loads. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, just one mpg less in the city than primary competitors from General Motors. On its own, the Hemi delivers 345 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm.

Impressive, yes, but this is a hybrid, so that’s only part of the equation. Joined to the V-8 is an electric continuously-variable transmission (ECVT) with two operating modes and four fixed-gear ratios. Dubbed two-mode, the technology adds 350 pounds to the SUV’s curb weight, includes a 300-volt Nickel-metal hydride battery pack placed under the second-row seat, and uses electric motors located within the transmission housing that generate 87 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque; the motors and engine generate an estimated 385 horsepower combined. In the first of the two modes, the Durango Hybrid/Aspen Hybrid can operate under full engine power, a combination of engine and electric power, or on 100 percent battery power up to 25 mph. An Auto Stop feature cuts power at 25 mph and below, again allowing the Hemi to shut down and the vehicle to operate solely on electric power. The second mode kicks in at higher speeds and under higher loads, such as when towing or passing.

In an effort to limit the Hemi’s workload, a number of components are electric and can, therefore, tap into the hybrid system without requiring inefficient operation of the engine. These include electric rack-and-pinion steering, an electric air conditioning condenser, and electrically-activated regenerative, antilock disc brakes (vented front, solid rear). Those stoppers reside behind 18-inch alloys rolling on Goodyear Wrangler SRA 265/60R18 tires; the whole shebang is connected to an independent front suspension and a live rear axle. All 2009 Dodge Durango Hybrids and 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrids are delivered with full-time four-wheel drive.

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