The all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet has arrived, and it’s not just making noise – it’s generating a full-blown buzz in the compact utility vehicle (CUV) segment. Dodge, known for its muscle car heritage, is injecting its performance DNA into the CUV market with the Hornet, promising to deliver the quickest, fastest, and most powerful CUV under $30,000. This isn’t just another entry into a crowded market; the Dodge Hornet is designed to disrupt, offering a unique blend of muscular styling, class-leading performance, and advanced technology, all while opening the door to the Dodge Brotherhood of Muscle for a new generation of enthusiasts.
Dodge Hornet R/T: Electrified Performance Takes the Lead
Leading the charge is the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T, Dodge’s first-ever electrified performance vehicle. Dubbed the “Head of the Hive,” the Hornet R/T isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about unleashing electrifying power. This performance hybrid is projected to be the most powerful utility vehicle in its segment, boasting a combined 288 horsepower and a massive 383 lb.-ft. of torque. The heart of the R/T is a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 90-kW electric motor, drawing power from a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. This combination allows for over 30 miles of all-electric driving range, making it a versatile option for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Power and Performance Specs of the R/T
The Dodge Hornet R/T isn’t shy about its performance credentials. Beyond the impressive horsepower and torque figures, it features a class-exclusive PowerShot feature. Engage PowerShot, and you get a burst of 30 extra horsepower for 15 seconds, reducing the 0 to 60 mph time by a full 1.5 seconds, down to a blistering 5.6 seconds. Standard features on the R/T amplify its performance focus, including 18-inch Graphite Grey wheels, Dodge-branded Brembo front fixed calipers for superior braking, and a sporty dual exhaust. Steering-mounted paddle shifters give drivers added control, and Sport Mode sharpens throttle response, optimizes gear shifts, and maximizes the hybrid system’s power. The R/T also offers selectable driving modes – Hybrid, Electric, and E-Save – allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance and efficiency to their needs.
R/T Unique Features
The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T sets itself apart with a range of features designed to enhance both performance and the driving experience. The PowerShot feature is a segment-exclusive, offering on-demand horsepower boost for exhilarating acceleration. Standard Brembo front fixed calipers provide confident stopping power, while the 18-inch Graphite Grey wheels and dual exhaust hint at the performance lurking beneath the surface. Inside, steering-mounted paddle shifters and Sport Mode further emphasize the R/T’s driver-centric design. The hybrid powertrain itself is a unique offering in the Dodge lineup, representing the brand’s first foray into electrified performance.
2023 Dodge Hornet GT: Unmatched Speed and Power Under $30,000
For those seeking raw power without electrification, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT steps up as the industry’s quickest, fastest, and most powerful utility vehicle under $30,000 (excluding destination charges). Powered by the Hurricane4 engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder, the Hornet GT delivers a potent 268 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine, the most powerful gas engine in the segment, propels the Hornet GT from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The GT is designed to offer thrilling performance at an accessible price point, making Dodge muscle available to a wider audience.
Engine and Performance of the GT
The Hurricane4 engine in the Dodge Hornet GT is a powerhouse, utilizing a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder configuration with direct fuel injection and engine stop-start technology for optimized performance and efficiency. The nine-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and responsive gear changes, while Sport Mode, accessible via a dedicated button on the steering wheel, unlocks the engine’s full potential. Sport Mode sharpens throttle response, adjusts the transmission’s shift schedule, and firms up the electronic limited slip differential, providing a more engaging and dynamic driving experience.
GT Key Features
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is packed with features that contribute to its performance and value proposition. Sport Mode is standard, allowing drivers to tap into the vehicle’s full performance capabilities. The Hurricane4 engine is the segment’s most powerful gas engine at this price point, delivering exhilarating acceleration and confident passing power. Standard all-wheel drive provides enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions. The GT also boasts a muscular Dodge design, a driver-centric interior, and advanced technology features, making it a well-rounded and compelling CUV option.
Muscular Dodge Design DNA: Inside and Out
The Dodge Hornet proudly wears its Dodge DNA, showcasing muscular styling cues that are instantly recognizable. The exterior design features a hood with integrated heat extractors, a “mail slot”-style grille opening, and a vehicle-width taillamp with an illuminated Dodge Rhombi logo in the center – a first for a Dodge vehicle. These elements combine to create an aggressive and performance-oriented aesthetic that sets the Hornet apart in the CUV segment.
Exterior Styling
The 2023 Dodge Hornet’s exterior is characterized by its bold and athletic stance. The hood with integrated heat extractors adds a performance touch, while the “mail slot” grille and horizontal brow create a serious and focused front fascia. The vehicle-width taillamp with the illuminated Rhombi logo is a signature Dodge element, enhancing brand recognition. Available Blacktop and Track Pack packages further customize the Hornet’s appearance, offering blacked-out accents and larger wheels for an even more aggressive look. Seven unique exterior colors, with names like Acapulco Gold and Hot Tamale, allow for personalization and further express the Hornet’s vibrant personality.
Interior Design and Features
Inside the Dodge Hornet, the driver-centric cockpit design mirrors the rest of the Dodge lineup. Center stack controls, display screens, and HVAC vents are angled towards the driver, creating an immersive and performance-focused environment. The instrument panel features a wrapped and stitched mid-bolster, adding a touch of premium feel. Red stitching accents throughout the black interior highlight the sporty character of the Hornet. Premium touches like available Alcantara seats with an embroidered Dodge Rhombi logo and optional red leather seats further elevate the interior ambiance. The flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated Sport Mode and hybrid mode buttons puts performance controls at the driver’s fingertips.
Driving Dynamics and Performance Features: Class-Leading Agility
The Dodge Hornet isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s engineered for dynamic driving and agile handling. It boasts a swarm of class-exclusive and best-in-class performance features designed to optimize suspension, braking, steering, and overall handling. From Koni shocks to Brembo brakes and dynamic torque vectoring, the Hornet is equipped to deliver a thrilling and confident driving experience.
Suspension and Handling
The 2023 Dodge Hornet prioritizes handling and ride comfort with class-exclusive Koni frequency selective damping shocks, standard on both R/T and GT models. These shocks automatically adjust damping based on road conditions and driving inputs, providing a balance of control and comfort. The Hornet features a fully independent front and rear suspension, with optimized front MacPherson geometry and a unique rear 3-link Chapman suspension, contributing to its best-in-class handling. Available dual-stage-valve suspension, part of the Track Pack, allows drivers to further customize the suspension damping to their preferences. Best-in-class weight distribution on the R/T model optimizes balance and handling, while enhanced body stiffness provides a solid and controlled feel in corners.
Braking and Control
Braking performance in the Dodge Hornet is top-notch, thanks to class-exclusive Brembo four-piston front fixed calipers, standard on the R/T and available on the GT. These calipers provide superior stopping power and consistent pedal feel. The Hornet R/T also features a class-exclusive brake-by-wire Intelligent Braking System, further enhancing braking performance and feel across various driving conditions. Dynamic torque vectoring, standard on both R/T and GT, delivers torque precisely to the wheels that need it most, improving traction and cornering agility, especially when Sport Mode is engaged.
Direct Connection Performance Parts: Factory-Backed Upgrades
For Dodge enthusiasts who always crave more, the Direct Connection parts portfolio will offer factory-backed performance upgrades exclusively for the Dodge Hornet. This allows owners to personalize and enhance their Hornet’s performance with components developed and validated by Dodge. The Dodge Hornet GT GLH Concept showcases the potential of Direct Connection parts, paying homage to the legendary Dodge Omni GLH (Goes Like Hell) and hinting at the performance possibilities.
GLH Concept and Inspiration
The Dodge Hornet GT GLH Concept serves as a rolling showcase for Direct Connection parts and a nod to Dodge’s performance heritage. Inspired by the original Dodge Omni GLH, the concept features a range of performance upgrades, including a stage kit, suspension lowering kit, unrestricted dual exhaust, and unique wheels and graphics. The GLH Concept demonstrates the potential for Hornet owners to personalize their vehicles and extract even more performance.
Direct Connection Advantages
Direct Connection parts offer a unique advantage: they are factory-backed, meaning they are designed, tested, and validated by Dodge engineers, and when installed by a Dodge Power Brokers dealer, they do not void the vehicle’s warranty. This provides peace of mind and ensures that performance upgrades are of the highest quality and reliability. Direct Connection parts for the Hornet will be available exclusively through Dodge Power Brokers dealers, who are trained to provide a performance-focused customer experience.
Technology and User Experience: Distinctly Dodge, Intuitively Advanced
The Dodge Hornet seamlessly integrates advanced technology while maintaining a driver-centric user experience. It features best-in-class standard digital displays, an intuitive Uconnect 5 infotainment system, and a suite of safety and driver-assistance features, all designed to enhance connectivity, convenience, and safety.
In-Car Technology
The Hornet boasts a best-in-class 12.3-inch digital cockpit cluster screen and a 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system central display, providing a combined 22.5 inches of in-vehicle screen space. The digital cockpit cluster is customizable, allowing drivers to display performance gauges, hybrid driving modes, or other vehicle information. The Uconnect 5 system is Android-based and offers personalized profiles, wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, dual phone connectivity, and Amazon Alexa integration. An available Harman Kardon premium sound system with 14 speakers delivers immersive audio quality.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2023 Dodge Hornet prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Support System, and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Path. Optional Level 2 autonomous driving features, available with the Tech Pack, include Intelligent Speed Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition, Driver Attention Assist, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control. These technologies work together to enhance driver awareness, prevent accidents, and provide a more confident and relaxed driving experience.
Availability and Conclusion: Get Ready to Buzz
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is open for orders now and is expected to arrive in dealerships in early spring 2023, with the Hornet R/T following in late spring 2023. With its combination of muscular Dodge styling, class-leading performance, advanced technology, and accessible price point, the 2023 Dodge Hornet is poised to shake up the CUV segment and bring a new generation into the Dodge Brotherhood of Muscle. Whether you’re drawn to the electrified performance of the R/T or the raw power of the GT, the Dodge Hornet delivers a unique and compelling CUV experience that is unmistakably Dodge.
