The 2024 Dodge Hornet offers a virtually equivalent experience for a lot less money if you’ve got your eye on the Alfa Romeo Tonale but need something that fits your budget a little better.
The 2024 Dodge Hornet employs the same plug-in hybrid powertrain as the Alfa, but it also comes in a non-hybrid model with 268 horsepower; both powertrains come standard with all-wheel drive. The Hornet’s interior is a little cramped, with less space for passengers and cargo, as compared to other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4.
But the 2024 Dodge Hornet outperforms its rivals thanks to its brash on-road attitude. A digital gauge display, the most modern infotainment system offered by the firm, and a number of driver-assistance systems, such as autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, are all included as standard equipment on every Dodge model.
What has changed with the 2024 Dodge Hornet?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet will introduce its plug-in hybrid Hornet R/T variant as a new model in 2023.
Although Dodge’s smallest car borrows a famous moniker, the Hornet’s little hatchback body is anything but vintage. The vehicle features LED headlamps, a towel-bar grille, Wegovy waistline, and additional thin lights at the back end.
These features work together to add some sparkle to its little body. It’s a stylish, albeit high-riding, vehicle with a tastefully decorated cabin that includes digital gauges and a touchscreen.
The 2024 Dodge Hornet distinguishes between the recent modern era and the new modern era powertrain personalities. Dodge’s R/T is a 1.3-liter turbo-4 with 288 hp and a 5.6-second 0-60 mph time.. The GT is a turbo-4 with a 9-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and 268 horsepower on tap.
The former is smooth but dull until twisted into a sharper Sport model, with a latte combination of mechanicals providing speed but not a predictable powerband.
Even with optional 20-inch wheels, both have quick handling and a good ride that is even better with adjustable two-mode shocks.
The power seats for the front passengers are well-shaped and covered in synthetic leather or fabric for an upgrade. Backseaters must squeeze through doors to reach their bench seat, but the space and shape are perfect inside. The 2024 Dodge Hornet GT variant can hold up to 54.7 cubic feet of goods behind the front seats or 22.9 cubic feet of cargo behind the back seats.
Performance – Engine, Transmission
All-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 268 horsepower are standard on Hornet GT variants.
A nine-speed automatic transmission is connected to the engine. During our initial test drive, the Hornet GT appeared lively and we believe its powerful engine can reach 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
The R/T model is Dodge’s first plug-in hybrid, and it generates 288 horsepower from a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that has been turbocharged and an electric motor.
The R/T model features a six-speed automatic transmission, unlike the GT’s nine-speed automatic, and standard all-wheel drive.
By pushing both paddle shifters, the powertrain’s PowerShot feature, which briefly increases output by 30 horsepower, is engaged. We predict that the R/T PHEV should reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds when the PowerShot mode is used.
2024 Dodge Hornet: Fuel efficiency and actual MPG
According to the EPA, the Hornet GT achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the interstate. We anticipate the plug-in hybrid R/T models to be more effective, even if the agency hasn’t yet commented on them.
2024 Dodge Hornet: Cargo, Comfort, and the Interior
The 2024 Dodge Hornet’s spacious cabin, similar to the Tonale’s, provides comfort for front passengers but may be uncomfortable for back passengers. The center console houses the automatic transmission shift lever, and the main controls and infotainment system are slightly oriented toward the driver.
The interior appearance is similar to that of the Tonale. The Alfa Romeo-style steering wheel that the Hornet also utilizes has a Dodge badge in the center and an ignition switch.
Although the GT Plus trim comes with leather, those who choose the extra Track package receive synthetic suede, black upholstery with red stitching. Additionally available is a red leather interior option.
Connectivity and Information
A 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen are standard on all versions. The Uconnect 5 system, a recent software interface, is also present on other Stellantis vehicles.
Together with wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, the ability to connect to Amazon Alexa is a basic feature. A wireless smartphone charging pad and a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system are added by upgrading to the GT Plus.
Features for Driver Assistance and Safety
The 2024 Dodge Hornet comes with standard driver-assistance functions such as autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian and cyclist detection. Additionally, parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring are in all versions.
Among other things, the optional Tech package includes adaptive cruise control with lane-centering.
Pricing
The GT’s starting price of $31,590 makes it a suitable compact SUV comparison. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard amenities, along with blind spot monitoring and rear parking sensors, which are often available in rival vehicles. The GT Plus trim level, starting at $36,590, features a wireless charging pad, hands-free power liftgate, heated leather seats, and a 14-speaker Harmon Kardon premium audio system.
The R/T tax credit, which is not available to retail purchasers, will provide lower prices to lessees. The R/T starts at $41,594 for the standard model and $46,590 for the R/T Plus.
Trims
The 2024 Dodge Hornet comes in four model levels. All-wheel drive and a 268-hp turbo-four are standard on the GT grade level. A better sound system, leather interior trim, and a wireless phone charger are all available in the GT Plus option.
The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T boasts a powerful plug-in hybrid trim that combines an electric motor with a smaller engine. This is the version you want if speed is your top priority. The same amenities added to the GT Plus are also available in the Plus trim for the R/T.
A Conclusion
The 2024 Dodge Hornet boasts a sophisticated design, advanced technology, and a plethora of standard amenities, making it a top choice in its class. It is an appealing option for anyone looking to purchase a product from an American manufacturer.
A 30-mile all-electric hybrid vehicle can be a reliable, fuel-efficient commuter, provided passengers don’t frequently sit in the back seats.
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