Dodge’s compact crossover is entering the second production year but that doesn’t mean there are no novelties. The 2024 Dodge Hornet is an important year for the nameplate, as it will be the first to feature the new hybrid powertrain, praised for its overall performance in the Hornet’s closest relative, the Alfa Romeo Tonale. And, just like the standard gas-powered version, it will benefit a lot from the tight connection with the Italian cousin.
Of course, we are primarily thinking of the driving experience, considering that the chassis setup is pretty much the same. But, there is also the matter of luxury, because the Hornet looks pretty nice from the inside and offers a decent amount of standard equipment. The Hornet is compact and maneuverable, but still quite practical. And, with the new hybrid powertrain, it could easily become one of the most interesting models in the class.
2024 Dodge Hornet Gets Hybrid Powertrain
Without any doubt, the biggest novelty for the 2024 Dodge Hornet is the introduction of the hybrid powertrain. Just like Tonale, Dodge’s SUV benefits from the pretty interesting system, based on a small 1.3-liter turbo-four engine. But don’t be fooled by that small displacement. The max output counts all the way up to 288 horsepower and, according to the officials, that’s enough to hit 60 in just 5.6 seconds.
But that’s not all. The new model is a plug-in hybrid, which means you may also count on a pretty decent range in the EV mode. The 12-kWh battery pack should ensure around 30 miles per charge.
Other than the new plug-in hybrid, which will come with the legendary R/T badge, the rest of the lineup will continue in the same way, with a potent turbo-four. Tat 2.0-liter engine that comes as the Hornet GT puts out 268 horsepower, which is enough for a 0-60 spring in about 6.5 seconds. And, what we also like is that, despite the FWD platform, this crossover actually features standard all-wheel-drive, which definitely has a big impact on the overall performance.
2024 Dodge Hornet Design
So, if we exclude the introduction of the new plug-in hybrid, the 2024 Dodge Hornet and Hornet GT are about to carry on in the same way. The overall design remains the same, with the styling that looks, we would say, good enough to attract a wide range of buyers. But what really sets this model apart is the chassis setup. With its Italian DNA, it doesn’t surprise that the Hornet is so engaging to drive. Very precise steering comes in a combination with no body lean and, at the same time, we are really surprised with the fact that the ride is quite smooth and comfortable.
As for the cabin design, there is really nothing to complain about. The overall build quality is pretty good and we like the selection of materials as well. And, unlike most Dodge interiors in the past, this actually looks pretty elegant, maybe because of the aforementioned Italian DNA. A couple of tiers in a combination with, a generally, simplistic design and a massive infotainment screen at the center stack make this cabin look quite appealing. And despite the compact dimensions, the second row is also quite comfortable, and we like that there are 27 cubic feet of room behind the second row and 54.7 cubic feet of total cargo volume, plenty enough for an average driver.
Features
Finally, a few words about the standard equipment, which isn’t much different compared to the 2023 model. So, the base 2024 Dodge Hornet will come standard with goodies like a 10.25-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, a Wi-Fi hot spot, satellite radio, Bluetooth, a six-speaker audio system and four USB ports, as well as a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, remote keyless entry, push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control. Among upgrades, expect to see navigation, wireless device charging, HD Radio, voice recognition, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener and a sunroof
As for the safety features, base models should come standard with a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, rear parking sensors and more.
2024 Dodge Hornet Release Date and Price
The 2024 Dodge Hornet will hit showrooms pretty soon, with a starting price of around 32.300 dollars. As for the new plug-in hybrid, the starting price will be around 42.500 dollars.
