Overview
The sleek Dodge Hornet sets the bar high in the subcompact SUV segment, and its electrifying new plug-in hybrid R/T model adds a thrilling dimension. Starting at $30,735, Dodge is making waves in the industry with its electrification efforts, beginning with the dynamic Hornet. The R/T variant boasts top-tier performance with its plug-in hybrid powertrain, matching its striking appearance with exhilarating driving dynamics. Even the non-hybrid Hornet GT offers impressive performance, blending everyday practicality with driving excitement. Dodge positions the Hornet as a gateway to the brand, and after experiencing its capabilities, it’s clear that it will capture the hearts and souls of many Dodge enthusiasts. With an electric-only range of 33 miles and acceleration to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, the Hornet R/T showcases its performance prowess, albeit with slightly less rear-seat legroom compared to some competitors—a trade-off that underscores Dodge’s commitment to performance excellence.
What’s New for 2024?
Introducing the Hornet R/T, the latest addition to Dodge’s electrified lineup, alongside the entry-level Hornet GT introduced in 2023. As part of Dodge’s ambitious plan to electrify its entire range, the Hornet R/T is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offering an impressive electric-only range of 33 miles. With this significant step towards electrification, Dodge is poised to enhance the performance of both the R/T and GT trims over time, staying true to its tradition of delivering exhilarating driving experiences.
2024 Dodge Hornet Models and Pricing
Starting at $30,735, the 2024 Dodge Hornet offers the base GT model with a non-hybrid powertrain, while the plug-in hybrid Hornet R/T begins at $40,935. Opting for the “Plus” trim adds an extra $5,000 to the cost for both powertrain options.
| 2024 Dodge Hornet | MSRP |
| Hornet GT | $30,735 |
| Hornet GT Plus | $35,735 |
| Hornet R/T | $40,935 |
| Hornet R/T Plus | $45,935 |
Sporty Cabin
Entering the Hornet feels akin to slipping into the cockpit of a sporty hatchback rather than an SUV. Dodge has meticulously crafted a sports car ambiance, evident from the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster to the red-stitching accents and multifunction steering wheel, exuding a sense of performance and control.
The 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and hard controls are angled towards the driver for intuitive access, while the well-cushioned console-mounted armrest adjusts fore and aft to ensure an optimal fit.
With perforated leather surfaces and robust side bolsters, the Hornet’s seats offer remarkable comfort and support, keeping occupants snug during spirited drives.
While front-seat occupants enjoy ample space, taller individuals may find the second row lacking in legroom. Although specific legroom measurements are yet to be released by Dodge, snug backseat quarters are not uncommon in this segment.
Opting for the R/T over the GT entails sacrificing roughly 4 cubic feet of rear cargo space to accommodate the PHEV battery. Nonetheless, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the second-row seat, the R/T offers more cargo room than the CX-30 (20.2) or the Kona N (19.2). When the second row is folded, the R/T (50.5) surpasses the CX-30 (45.2) and the Kona N (45.8).
Eye-Catching Exterior
With dimensions placing it between a subcompact and a compact SUV, the Dodge Hornet commands attention with its sleek and performance-oriented exterior design.
A few inches longer than the CX-30 and nearly a foot longer than the Kona N, it strikes a balance of athleticism and functionality.
Notably, the heat extractors integrated into the hood serve a practical purpose, while the distinctive Hornet logos on the front quarters contribute to its individualistic character, further accentuating its unique persona on the road.
Specifications
The Dodge Hornet lineup comprises four trim levels: GT, GT Plus, R/T, and R/T Plus. The GT and GT Plus variants are propelled by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the R/T and R/T Plus models are equipped with a turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid configuration, delivering 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Notably, all models feature all-wheel drive as standard. Below is a breakdown of the features offered for each trim:
GT
Starts off the Hornet lineup with:
- 17-inch wheels
- Automatic headlights
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Cloth and synthetic leather upholstery
- 60/40-split folding rear seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Six-speaker audio system
- Uconnect infotainment system with 10.25-inch touchscreen
The Hornet also comes with:
- Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
- Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Lane keeping assistance (steers the Hornet back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
- Rear parking sensors
- Automatic high beams
GT Plus
Adds more creature comforts, including:
- Remote start system
- Hands-free power liftgate
- Sunroof
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Wireless charging pad
- 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system
- Integrated navigation system
R/T
Has a similar feature set as the GT but also comes with:
- Plug-in hybrid powertrain with turbocharged four-cylinder engine
- 18-inch wheels
- Brembo performance front brakes
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front seats
R/T Plus
The R/T Plus adds on the features from the GT Plus that weren’t otherwise standard on the base R/T.
There are three option packages for the Hornet worth knowing about:
Blacktop package
- Black-painted wheels and exterior trim
Tech Pack
- Enhanced version of the adaptive cruise control system
- Lane centering system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the Hornet and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
- Front parking sensors
- Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
Track Pack
- 20-inch black-painted wheels
- Red-painted brake calipers
- Synthetic suede seat upholstery
- Adjustable suspension dampers (can be set to improve ride comfort or handling stability)
- Sport-style steering wheel