2023 Dodge Hornet

Overview

Dodge has entered the compact crossover chat with the 2023 Hornet. Rather than reskinning a Jeep Compass as it did with its last attempt at a small SUV, the unloved Caliber, this time around Dodge has instead settled on sharing a platform with the Alfa Romeo Tonale. A 268-hp turbocharged four-cylinder with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic is the standard setup but a 288-hp plug-in hybrid R/T model with more than 30 miles of electric driving is due for the 2024 model year. The Hornet offers the most high-tech equipment in the Dodge’s lineup, with standard features that include a digital gauge display, Uconnect 5 infotainment software, and automated emergency braking with pedestrian-and-cyclist detection.

What’s New for 2023?

The Hornet is a new entrant in the Dodge lineup and sits below the mid-size Durango. This small SUV will compete against rivals such as the compact Kia Sportage, the Mazda CX-50, and the Volkswagen Tiguan.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Dodge is offering the Hornet only in GT guise for the 2023 model year but in base and GT Plus trims. The base GT comes with plenty of desirable standard features, including a large 10.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 17-inch aluminum wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and dual-zone automatic climate control. We would splurge on the Cold Weather Group package, which adds heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start, but if you live in the sunbelt you can probably skip that and save the money.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Hornet GT models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 268 horsepower and comes paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. During our initial test drive, we found the Hornet GT to be fairly perky and we estimate that this powertrain is good enough to motivate the Hornet to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. The plug-in hybrid R/T model features slightly more power and an EV driving mode that should make it slightly quicker, but buyers will have to wait for the 2024 model year to take one of those home. When we get a chance to test these claims for ourselves, we’ll update this story with the Hornet’s performance results and driving impressions.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA estimates that the Hornet GT is good for 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. When we get a chance, we’ll take the Hornet on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route and report its results here. For more information about the Hornet’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Hornet’s cabin is just as roomy as the Tonale’s, which means it’s spacious for front-seat riders but tight for those in the back. Interior styling is similar to the Tonale’s too, with the primary controls and infotainment system slightly canted toward the driver and a tall shift lever for the automatic transmission positioned on the center console. The Hornet also uses the same steering wheel as the Alfa Romeo, albeit with a Dodge logo in the center, which features an integrated ignition switch beneath the left spoke. Black upholstery with red stitching is standard but the GT Plus trim comes with leather; those ordered with the optional Track package get faux-suede. An optional red leather interior option is also available.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

All models come with a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. The software interface is the latest Uconnect 5 system which is in use on other Stellantis models such as the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and the Ram 1500 pickup truck. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features, as is Amazon Alexa connectivity. Upgrading to the GT Plus swaps in a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo for the standard system and adds a wireless smartphone charging pad.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

A host of driver-assistance features are standard on the Hornet, including automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. All models also come with blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The optional Tech package adds adaptive cruise control with lane centering, among other features. For more information about the Hornet’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Dodge offers a fairly typical warranty with all new Hornet models; extended warranties are available for purchase through participating dealerships. The Sportage has the Dodge beat with a 10-year warranty and the Tiguan comes with two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenanceArrow pointing downArrow pointing down

Specifications

Specifications

2023 Dodge Hornet GT

Vehicle Type: front-engine; all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE

Base: $31,590

POWERTRAIN

turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 268 hp, 295 lb-ft
Transmission: 9-speed automatic

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase: 103.8 in

Length: 178.3 in

Width: 72.5

Height: 63.8 in

Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 55/27 ft3

Curb Weight (C/D est): 3750 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)

60 mph: 6.5 sec

1/4-Mile: 15.1 sec

Top Speed: 128 mph

EPA FUEL ECONOMY

Combined/City/Highway: 24/21/29 mpg 

More Features and Specs