2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Which Driver-Focused SUV Wins?
“Driver-focused” might not be your first thought when envisioning a family SUV. But the 2024 Honda CR-V and Dodge Hornet provide a fun driving experience. Sure, the CR-V is better known for practicality, while the Hornet touts power and attitude. Still, both compact crossovers are fun to drive. Here’s a side-by-side comparison.
| 2024 Honda CR-V | 2024 Dodge Hornet | |
| Base MSRPs | $29,500–$39,500 | $30,735–$45,935 |
| Engine Types | 1.5-liter inline-4; 2.0-liter inline-4 (hybrid) | 2.0-liter inline-four; 1.3-liter inline-4 (hybrid) |
| Horsepower + Torque | 190 hp + 179 lb-ft; 204 hp + 247 lb-ft (hybrid) | 268 hp + 295 lb-ft; 288 hp + 383 lb-ft (hybrid) |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | CVT; e-CVT (hybrid) + AWD | 9-speed automatic; 6-speed automatic (hybrid) + AWD |
| 0–60 Acceleration + Top Speed | 8.7 seconds + 121 mph | 6.5 second; 5.6 seconds (hybrid) + 128 mph |
| Combined Fuel Economy | 30 mpg; 40 mpg (hybrid) | 24 mpg; 29 mpg (hybrid) |
| Cargo Capacity | 39.3 cubic feet | 28 cubic feet |
The CR-V and Hornet are popular vehicles in their segment. However, the Honda CR-V is the more trusted of the two because it has a more substantial history on the market. But the Dodge Hornet, which debuted last year, demands attention thanks to its potent powertrain options. Both have much to offer, but which compact SUV is better?
2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Driving and performance
The 2024 Hornet and 2024 CR-V shine in this area but for different reasons. Honda’s entry provides a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to its 1.5-liter inline-four engine making 190 hp. The hybrid version makes 204 hp through a 2.0-liter inline-four and offers Normal, Sport, Econ, and Snow driving modes.
Meanwhile, the Hornet makes waves thanks to its power and attitude. The base model has a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 268 hp. The hybrid version has a smaller engine but harnesses 288 hp. The latter also has three drive modes: E-Save mode conserves battery charge, Electric mode emphasizes electric driving, and Hybrid mode delivers maximum combined power and efficiency.
As for speed, the Hornet easily beats the CR-V. Indeed, the Dodge SUV is the fastest in its class, with the hybrid version zooming from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Notably, the non-hybrid Hornet also has the highest top speed in its segment. The fastest CR-V trim finishes in about 7.4 seconds.
2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Interior and tech
The 2024 Honda CR-V and Dodge Hornet have excellent driver-focused interiors. Both use premium materials to create an upscale appearance without hiking up the price too much. One of the most significant differences between them is interior space, which is where the 2024 Honda CR-V prevails. Both SUVs seat five people, but the CR-V is larger and roomier, coming in with an overall length of 184.8 inches, while the Hornet is 178 inches.
However, the 2024 Dodge Hornet wins in tech features. It boasts a 10.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. It also comes standard with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Regarding the CR-V, the lower-level LX, EX, and Sport trims have a 7.0-inch screen, whereas the higher trims get a 9.0-inch unit supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Both crossovers allow buyers to upgrade the sound system, but the Hornet provides a better option.
2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Trim levels and features
The 2024 Honda CR-V has six trim levels, two more than the 2024 Dodge Hornet’s four.
The new CR-V’s trims and differences are as follows:
- LX — four speakers, front USB ports, 17-inch steel wheels
- EX — six speakers, rear USB ports included, 18-inch alloy wheels
- Sport Hybrid — leather-wrapped steering wheel, six speakers, black roof rails
- EX-L — 9.0-inch screen, leather upholstery, eight speakers
- Sport L Hybrid — leather upholstery, wireless phone charger, parking sensors
- Sport Touring Hybrid — satellite navigation, 12-speaker audio system, heated steering wheel
Meanwhile, the 2024 Hornet’s trims are the following:
- G/T — cloth and leatherette seats, six speakers, manual adjustable seats, 17-inch wheels
- G/T Plus — power sunroof, heated leather front seats with memory, 14 speakers, hands-free liftgate
- R/T — plug-in hybrid powertrain, 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips, Abyss finish lower exterior trim, heated steering wheel
- R/T Plus — similar to G/T Plus but with a plug-in hybrid powertrain
Which driver-focused SUV is the better fit for you?
The 2024 Honda CR-V and 2024 Dodge Hornet are appealing driver-focused SUVs. However, the Dodge crossover puts a bit more emphasis on the driver with an infotainment screen slanted toward them. That makes using the system safer and more convenient. Still, both SUVs have plenty to offer.
Shoppers wanting more interior space and better fuel economy will lean toward the Honda CR-V. However, those desiring a more potent powertrain and slick styling might consider the Dodge Hornet, one of the fastest in its class.
