2024 Dodge Hornet: What’s New and Different From the 2023 Model?
Despite its name, the all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet didn’t inflict a fierce sting on rivals. However, the 2024 Hornet aims for a full-out assault with multiple trim levels, a plug-in hybrid version, and a performance variant. Here’s what you need to know about the 2024 Dodge Hornet and what has changed since the 2023 model.
How was the Hornet received for 2023?
The Hornet compact SUV is one of the first vehicles in the company’s new “e-muscle” era. Dodge is finally entering the plug-in hybrid market to compete with rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Prime. However, the Hornet’s initial run was slightly confusing. Upon its debut, the 2023 model didn’t offer a plug-in hybrid or high-performance variant. Instead, it had only two trims: GT and GT Plus.
Their base MSRPs of $32,330 and $37,330 weren’t exactly competitive in the class. But these small crossovers delivered peppy acceleration thanks to a Hurricane4 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup sent around 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels, making the Hornet one of the fastest all-wheel-drive compact SUVs.
Despite the potent engine, gas mileage was good, earning an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. That wasn’t fantastic, but it was decent for a performance-minded SUV.
In addition, the 2023 model included a 10.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Shoppers splurging for the GT Plus received leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, wireless device charging, and other convenience features.
The 2023 Hornet was a solid performance-focused crossover. However, Dodge’s new SUV wasn’t very popular. And where was the plug-in hybrid?
What has changed on the 2024 Dodge Hornet?
The GT and GT Plus trims return for the 2024 Dodge Hornet. But they’re joined by the new R/T and R/T Plus plug-in hybrids. Touting more power than the GT models, the PHEVs harness 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. They pack a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery, achieving 32 miles of electric range, 77 MPGe, and 360 miles of total range.
The R/T also features four driving modes: Sport, Hybrid, Electric, and E-save. Stellantis’ other PHEV, the Jeep Renegade 4xe, has a similar plug-in hybrid driving system, so the Hornet’s technology is likely plucked from that vehicle.
But unlike the Renegade 4xe, the Hornet R/T has a PowerShot feature, giving drivers an extra 30 hp at the push of a button. This on-demand power boost is bold for Dodge because this technology is typically found only in all-electric vehicles.
Other 2024 Dodge Hornet changes include a hands-free liftgate standard on the R/T Plus and GT Plus trims. Also, Stellantis added parallel and perpendicular parking assist systems to the optional Tech Pack package.
