Front passengers are protected by multistage airbags, while all outboard passengers get supplemental side curtain airbags. Chrysler's Electronic Stability Program, TPMS, anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes, and brake assist are standard across the mode lineup, plus the 4-wheel-drive models have 4-wheel traction control.
The Laredo starts with adventure-ready features such as a 60/40 folding rear seat and roof rack, plus 8-way power cloth bucket seats, which can be upgraded to leather-trimmed heated front seats. Moving up to the Limited adds the ParkSense rear park assist system and a rearview camera, plus power adjustable pedals, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, heated second-row seats, and a memory function that includes radio settings.
Speaking of the sound system, the basic 6-speaker media center plays both CDs and MP3s, but it can be upgraded to a Boston Acoustics system that also plays DVDs. The Limited trim adds a navigation system and one year of Sirius Traffic, which integrates with the navigation system to help drivers pick the route with the fewest headaches.
The SRT-8 stands alone in the features category, with exterior cues such as massive 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires replacing the 17-inch aluminum wheels on the Limited and Laredo, dual exhaust and a rear spoiler. It also has performance-tuned steering, suspension and brakes, which come in handy when owners sign up for the SRT Track Experience. The ability to take the powerful engine sport-tuned handling to the track to really push the SUV's performance envelope may alone be worth the purchase price.