In a move that melds the venerable Dodge legacy with the electric era, the brand welcomes its first-ever electrified performance vehicle, the 2023 Dodge Hornet. This game-changer boldly veers into the fast-growing compact utility vehicle (CUV) sector, bringing the brand’s signature muscular styling, leading-edge performance, and a heap of exclusive features. Our “glance” covers the 2024 model.
Exterior Design: Muscular Meets Modern
The Hornet isn’t just another pretty face in the CUV segment. It incorporates Dodge’s distinctive DNA with a fresh, contemporary exterior design. Up front, a “mail slot”-style grille is flanked by headlamps with signature lighting that makes an imposing statement. Heat extractors integrated into the hood add a performance-oriented touch, and the matte black lower cladding screams durability. For those opting for the Hornet R/T, unique new Abyss painted lower cladding and rear valance with integrated dual exhaust ports add a more aggressive touch. And let’s not forget the vehicle-width taillamp with a Dodge Rhombi logo—something never seen on a Dodge vehicle.
Interior Space: Driver-Centric Design
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior designed with the driver in mind. The controls and display screens are subtly tilted toward the driver, enveloping them in a cockpit-like experience. The instrument panel utilizes a mid-bolster that stretches across the car, giving a spacious yet focused feel. It’s clearly a Dodge through and through but with a fresh take on what an electrified CUV can be.
Cabin Amenities: Elevated Comfort
The Hornet doesn’t skimp on comfort and style, featuring class exclusive Alcantara seats on its Track Pack option. Leather seating is standard for the R/T Plus and GT Plus, with an optional splash of Dodge flair through red leather seats. Red stitching flows throughout the black interior, tying together the overall aesthetic. Additional performance controls are conveniently placed on the flat-bottom steering wheel, keeping the driver in tune with the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities.
Driver-Assist Technology: Next-Level Safety
Safety and convenience are front and center in the new Hornet, featuring standard advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane support system, and blind spot detection. For those who choose the Tech Pack, the Hornet raises the bar even higher with level 2 autonomous driving, intelligent speed assist, driver attention assist, and intelligent adaptive cruise control. These features collectively position the Hornet as one of the most technologically advanced CUVs in the realm of driver support.
In-Cabin Tech: A Symphony of Connectivity
For tech-savvy drivers, the Hornet is a dream come true. The 12.3-inch digital cockpit cluster screen is complemented by a 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a total of 22.5 inches of display screen space. This Android-based system supports Wireless Android and Apple CarPlay and even integrates Amazon Alexa for smart home connectivity. Let’s not overlook the optional Harman Kardon sound system, which offers premium audio through 14 speakers, powered by a robust 465-watt system.
Performance: The Heart of the Hornet
The Hornet R/T is the brand’s first electrified performance vehicle, featuring a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 90-kW electric motor. This powertrain delivers an impressive 288 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The R/T even offers an on-demand PowerShot feature, which gives a 30-horsepower burst, letting it accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.
If gas power is more your style, the Hornet GT, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four Hurricane4 engine, is no slouch either. It generates a class-leading 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.
Both the R/T and GT offer dynamic driving features such as Koni shocks, Brembo four-piston brake calipers, and dynamic torque vectoring, emphasizing that this CUV is built for performance enthusiasts.
Trim Levels and Price
The 2024 Hornet lineup comprises four models: GT, G/T Plus, R/T, and R/T Plus. Priced from $30,735, a fully loaded model can top $50,000.
An Electrifying CUV for the Modern Driver
The 2024 Dodge Hornet serves as more than just a new model in the brand’s portfolio; it signifies a transformative shift in both Dodge’s strategy and the broader CUV market. Whether one is a committed Dodge follower or simply interested in high-performance CUVs, the newly available Hornet offers a noteworthy development for those keeping an eye on automotive innovation.
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Photos courtesy of Stellantis.
