Dodge has added a new model in its lineup – a compact CUV named Hornet – touted as the “quickest, fastest, most powerful compact utility vehicle under $30,000.” While other automakers brag about their compact crossovers as a vehicle for everyday transport, Dodge takes a totally different approach to its compact utility vehicle.
Hornet GT
So, why does Dodge call the Hornet the quickest and the most powerful CUV? Of course, because of its powertrain. The entry-level gasoline-powered Hornet GT model features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain creates 265 horsepower (198 kilowatts) and 295 pound-feet (400 newton-meters) of torque, enabling the vehicle to hit 60 mph from a standstill position in 6.5 seconds. It is what we get from the Mini Cooper S, and it is at a price under $30K.
Hornet R/T
The Hornet is also accessible in a plug-in hybrid flavour. The Hornet R/T PHEV boasts a turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, a 90-kilowatt electric motor fixed at the rear axle, and a 15.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery. The battery juices up in around 2.5 hours through a 7.4-kilowatt charging outlet, offering 35 miles of all-electric range.
The PHEV uses a six-speed automatic transmission and includes an integrated starter-generator for enhanced low-end reaction. The Hornet R/T is the fastest of the two, with a 0 to 60 time of 6.1 seconds, courtesy of its combined output of 285 hp (213 kW) and 383 lb-ft (519 Nm). However, that requires the driver to activate PowerShot.
The automaker says PowerShot is triggered when the driver uses both the wheel-mounted paddle shifters and the accelerator pedal to generate an additional 25 hp via electric motor for around 15 seconds. The new Dodge Hornet will also feature dynamic torque vectoring.
The Hornet R/T boasts Koni FSD dampers, a completely independent suspension, and a Brembo braking system with vented discs and four-piston calipers in front. Black calipers are a part of the deal, while a Track Package is optional for both R/T and GT. Since the Hornet takes lots of its elements from the Alfa Romeo Tonale, we can expect best-in-class body toughness with superb weight distribution.
Interior
The 2023 Dodge Hornet will come with an upscale interior featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system using Uconnect 5. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is there in wireless form, and the digital cluster has various themes to choose from.
Availability and Price
Dodge has plans to open the order books soon, and it is when we would know about the Hornet’s pricing. So far, we only know the base model will come with an under 30K price tag. There is so much more we need to find out about the new compact utility vehicle from Dodge, such as its fuel economy. Until Dodge reveals all the details, we are happy to admire the impressive powertrain and forward-looking design. Dodge took a long time to introduce its CUV, and it did it in style.
Source and Images: Motor1