2023 Dodge Hornet: Rumors and Expectations

Stellantis is working on a lot of new models these days and from what we can see, there is something cooking in Dodge’s kitchen as well. It looks like this company is finally about to release something new, considering that the current lineup has been around for ages. The new model to come will be the 2023 Dodge Hornet and it will be the smallest vehicle in the company’s lineup.

At this point, we don’t know the details about the 2023 Dodge Hornet but we know some of the base design characteristics. First of all, this model will share a lot of parts with the upcoming Alfa Romeo Tonale. The two models will feature similar dimensions, ride on the same platform and use the same powertrain, according to the latest reports.

Although the officials are still quiet, we expect that the 2023 Dodge Hornet will hit the market sometime in the second half of 2022.

2023 Dodge Hornet Design

Design-wise, the all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet will be heavily based on the upcoming Tonale. The two models will share a lot of things, starting from the platform. Although some of us were hoping for the super-dynamics Giorgio architecture, the new Tonale, as well as the Hornet, will ride on FCA’s familiar Small Wide platform. This means that the new Hornet will feature an FF layout, though versions with four-wheel drive are expected too.

In any case, the new model will represent Dodge in the segment of subcompact SUVs. This means that Dodge is about to get out from its comfort zone and introduce something that has never been its cup of tea – a small car.

Exterior

The exterior of the new 2023 Dodge Hornet is a bit of a mystery at the moment. Some rendering photos can be found on the network but the problem lays in the fact that Dodge hasn’t been released a new model for a very long time. A new design language is yet to be established and it’s still hard to predict how it’s going to look like.

We believe that some inspiration could be taken front the 2006 Hornet concept. This particularly refers to the overall shape which, despite the compact dimensions, looks quite bulky. More details should be known in the next few months.

Interior

The same thing goes for interior design. At this point, it’s hard to predict things like a dashboard design. On the other hand, we know what to expect in terms of interior space. As a subcompact SUV, the 2023 Dodge Hornet probably won’t be too generous with interior space. We expect a comfortable first row, while the rear seats would probably be a little bit tight. If we take that the new model is about to feature a little bit of bulky styling, just like the concept, we may expect respectable cargo space.

Naturally, we also expect to see this crossover equipped with full load features, whether it’s about tech goodies or safety. This would include a new, massive infotainment screen, wireless smartphone integration and many other things.

2023 Dodge Hornet Engines

When it comes to the powertrain, we can only speculate at this point. One of the units that come to mind is a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. However, that engine will probably remain reserved for more expensive versions. On the other hand, base models could come with the new 1.5-liter turbo-four.

Also, we expect to see a plug-in hybrid model. This one would probably use the same system as the new Renegade and Compass plug-in hybrid models, combining a 1.3-liter gasoline engine with a 60-hp electric motor. The total output should go around 240 horsepower.

2023 Dodge Hornet Release Date and Price

We believe that the 2023 Dodge Hornet could arrive already in the second half of 2022. When it comes to the competition, there is a lot of potential rivals, as we are talking about a pretty crowded segment. Some of the key players in the class of subcompact SUVs are models like Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota C-HR etc.