You walk into a Dodge dealership expecting the usual American muscle cars, but instead, you discover something completely unexpected—a compact SUV with Italian DNA that can sprint to 60 mph faster than most sports sedans. Meet the 2024 Dodge Hornet, the SUV that’s completely rewriting what we thought we knew about compact crossovers.
But here’s what makes this story really interesting: Dodge has managed to stuff all this Italian engineering and American attitude into a package that starts at just $32,995. That’s less than what you’d pay for a loaded Toyota RAV4, yet you’re getting performance that would make luxury SUV owners do a double-take.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything that makes the 2024 Dodge Hornet special—from its surprisingly quick acceleration to its tech-packed interior. Whether you’re considering the base GT or wondering about the hybrid R/T model, we’ll give you the real story behind America’s most unexpected compact SUV.
What Makes the 2024 Dodge Hornet Special?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet represents Dodge’s bold entry into the compact SUV segment. Built on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Tonale, this SUV combines Italian engineering with Dodge’s performance DNA.
Here’s what sets the Hornet apart from competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4:
- Powerful turbocharged engine delivering 268 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive on all models
- Generous standard features including advanced safety tech
- Sporty handling that’s more engaging than typical compact SUVs
- Competitive starting price at $32,995
The Hornet fills a gap in Dodge’s lineup, giving the brand a much-needed competitor in the white-hot compact SUV arena.
2024 Dodge Hornet Engine Performance: Power That Surprises
Standard Turbocharged Power
Every 2024 Dodge Hornet GT and GT Plus comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces:
- 268 horsepower at 5,000 rpm
- 295 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- Standard all-wheel drive
Real-World Performance Numbers
During professional testing, the 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus achieved impressive acceleration:
- 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds – remarkably quick for a compact SUV
- Quarter-mile in 14.5 seconds at 95 mph
- Top speed of 140 mph (manufacturer claim)
These numbers put the Hornet ahead of most competitors in its class. The turbocharged engine provides strong low-end torque, making city driving and highway merging effortless.
How Does It Drive?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet offers a more engaging driving experience than typical compact SUVs:
- Confident handling that approaches sporty territory
- Responsive steering with good feedback
- Sprightly acceleration both around town and on highways
- More engaging than Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage
While it’s not as athletic as Mazda or Volkswagen offerings, the Hornet strikes a nice balance between comfort and sportiness.
2024 Dodge Hornet Trims: GT vs GT Plus Comparison
2024 Dodge Hornet GT ($32,995)
The base Dodge Hornet GT comes surprisingly well-equipped:
Standard Features:
- 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 17-inch aluminum wheels
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- LED headlights and taillights
- Automated emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus ($37,995)
The GT Plus adds premium features for $5,000 more:
Additional Features:
- Leather-appointed seating
- 14-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system
- In-dash navigation system
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Heated front seats (with Cold Weather Group)
- Premium interior trim
Which Trim Should You Choose?
For most buyers, the base 2024 Dodge Hornet GT offers excellent value. The standard features list is generous, and you get the same powerful engine and all-wheel drive system.
Consider the GT Plus if you want:
- Premium audio system
- Leather seats
- Built-in navigation
The $5,000 price difference is reasonable for the added luxury features.
2024 Dodge Hornet Specs: Complete Technical Details
Complete Engine and Performance Specifications
| Specification | GT Model | GT Plus Model | R/T Hybrid |
| Engine Type | Turbocharged 2.0L I4 | Turbocharged 2.0L I4 | Turbo 1.3L I4 + Electric Motor |
| Horsepower | 268 hp @ 5,000 rpm | 268 hp @ 5,000 rpm | 285+ hp (combined) |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm | 383 lb-ft (combined) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 seconds | 5.7 seconds | ~5.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 140 mph | 130 mph |
| Quarter Mile | 14.5 sec @ 95 mph | 14.5 sec @ 95 mph | ~14.2 seconds |
Dimensions and Interior Space
| Measurement | Specification | Compared to CR-V | Compared to RAV4 |
| Overall Length | 178.3 inches | 185.0 inches | 181.5 inches |
| Overall Width | 72.5 inches | 73.0 inches | 73.0 inches |
| Overall Height | 63.8 inches | 66.1 inches | 67.0 inches |
| Wheelbase | 103.8 inches | 106.3 inches | 105.9 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.1 inches | 8.2 inches | 8.6 inches |
| Front Headroom | 40.9 inches | 40.1 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 38.7 inches | 39.2 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Front Legroom | 42.2 inches | 41.3 inches | 41.0 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 36.1 inches | 40.4 inches | 37.8 inches |
| Cargo Behind Rear Seats | 27.6 cubic feet | 39.2 cubic feet | 37.5 cubic feet |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 55.0 cubic feet | 75.8 cubic feet | 69.8 cubic feet |
| Curb Weight | 3,844 pounds | 3,337 pounds | 3,370 pounds |
Fuel Economy Comparison
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Tank |
| Hornet GT/GT Plus | 21 mpg | 29 mpg | 24 mpg | 13.2 gallons |
| Honda CR-V | 28 mpg | 34 mpg | 31 mpg | 14.0 gallons |
| Toyota RAV4 | 27 mpg | 35 mpg | 30 mpg | 14.5 gallons |
| Mazda CX-5 | 25 mpg | 31 mpg | 27 mpg | 15.3 gallons |
| Hornet R/T (PHEV) | 74 MPGe | 67 MPGe | 71 MPGe | 11.1 gallons |
Wheel and Tire Options
| Trim Level | Standard Wheels | Optional Wheels | Tire Size |
| GT | 17-inch aluminum | 18-inch black | 235/55R17 |
| GT Plus | 18-inch aluminum | 20-inch Track Pack | 235/50R18 |
| R/T | 18-inch unique design | 20-inch performance | 235/50R18 |
| Track Package | 20-inch dark finish | – | 235/40ZR20 |
Suspension and Braking Details
| Component | GT Specification | GT Plus with Track Pack | R/T Hybrid |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson struts | MacPherson struts | MacPherson struts |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link independent | Multi-link independent | Multi-link independent |
| Front Brakes | 13.6-inch vented discs | 13.6-inch vented discs | 13.8-inch vented discs |
| Rear Brakes | 12.0-inch solid discs | 12.0-inch solid discs | 11.8-inch solid discs |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard | Regenerative + Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control | Standard | Standard | Standard |
Fuel Economy
Standard vs Optional Features Comparison
| Feature Category | GT Base ($32,995) | GT Plus ($37,995) | Available Options |
| Exterior | |||
| Headlights | LED projector | LED projector | Adaptive LED |
| Wheels | 17-inch aluminum | 18-inch aluminum | 20-inch Track Pack |
| Paint Options | 7 standard colors | 7 standard colors | Premium Gray Cray |
| Roof Rails | Standard | Standard | Black roof option |
| Interior | |||
| Seating | Cloth with red stitching | Leather-appointed | Red leather package |
| Front Seats | Manual adjust | Power adjust 8-way | Memory settings |
| Steering Wheel | Leather-wrapped | Leather sport | Heated option |
| Technology | |||
| Infotainment | 10.3-inch touchscreen | 10.3-inch touchscreen | Same |
| Audio System | 6-speaker | 14-speaker Harman/Kardon | Premium sound |
| Navigation | Smartphone integration | Built-in system | Live traffic |
| Wireless Charging | Not available | Not available | Not offered |
| Safety & Driver Assist | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard | Enhanced version |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Standard | Same |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Optional Tech Pack | Optional Tech Pack | Lane centering |
| 360-Degree Camera | Optional | Optional | Surround view |
Towing and Payload Capacity
| Capability | Specification | Class Comparison |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 2,000 pounds | Below average for class |
| Tongue Weight | 200 pounds | Standard |
| Payload Capacity | 1,200 pounds | Adequate |
| Roof Load Capacity | 165 pounds | With roof rails |
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
| Coverage Type | Dodge Hornet | Honda CR-V | Toyota RAV4 | Kia Sportage |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles | 10 years/100,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles | 2 years/unlimited miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | None | None | 2 years/25,000 miles | None |
Package Options and Pricing
| Package Name | Included Features | GT Price | GT Plus Price |
| Cold Weather Group | Heated front seats, heated steering wheel, remote start | $995 | $995 |
| Tech Pack Plus | Adaptive cruise, lane centering, 360 camera, park assist | $2,245 | $2,245 |
| GT Blacktop + Track Pack | 20-inch wheels, dual-mode suspension, sport steering wheel | $3,990 | $3,990 |
| Red Leather Interior | Premium red leather seats, matching door panels | $1,295 | Included |
Interior Comfort and Technology Features
Cabin Space and Comfort
The 2024 Dodge Hornet interior mirrors its Alfa Romeo Tonale sibling:
Front Seats:
- Spacious and comfortable for adults
- Good driver position with controls angled toward driver
- Supportive seats with available heating
Rear Seats:
- Adequate for average-sized adults
- Tighter than some competitors like CR-V or RAV4
- Better suited for children or shorter trips
Cargo Space Reality
With 27.6 cubic feet behind rear seats, the Hornet’s cargo area is:
- Smaller than Honda CR-V (39.2 cubic feet)
- Less than Toyota RAV4 (37.5 cubic feet)
- Competitive with Mazda CX-5 (30.9 cubic feet)
This is one area where the Hornet trails some competitors, so consider your hauling needs carefully.
Technology and Infotainment
All 2024 Dodge Hornet models include:
- 10.3-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5 system
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Amazon Alexa connectivity
- Four USB ports for device charging
The GT Plus adds:
- 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo
- Built-in navigation system
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Standard Safety Equipment
Every 2024 Dodge Hornet comes with comprehensive safety features:
- Automated emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Parking sensors front and rear
- Rearview camera with guidelines
Available Advanced Features
The optional Tech Package adds:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
- Lane-centering assistance
- Surround-view camera system
- Intelligent speed assist
- Drowsy driver detection
These features put the Hornet on par with competitors in terms of safety technology.
2024 Dodge Hornet R/T: The High-Performance Hybrid
Dodge Hornet R/T Horsepower and Performance
The Dodge Hornet R/T represents the performance flagship with plug-in hybrid power:
- Total system output: 285+ horsepower
- Dodge Hornet RT 0-60: Approximately 5.5 seconds
- Electric-only driving capability
- Enhanced performance tuning
Is the Dodge Hornet Electric?
The Dodge Hornet R/T is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), not fully electric:
- Combines turbocharged gasoline engine with electric motor
- Offers electric-only driving for short distances
- Can be plugged in to charge the battery
- Provides better fuel economy than standard models
The base GT and GT Plus models are traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Where is the Dodge Hornet Made?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet is manufactured in:
- Melfi, Italy at the Stellantis facility
- Shares production line with Alfa Romeo Tonale
- Imported to the United States
- Built to global quality standards
This Italian manufacturing gives the Hornet some European engineering influence while maintaining Dodge’s American character.
What Year Did the Dodge Hornet Come Out?
The Dodge Hornet timeline:
- 2023: First model year introduced
- 2024: Second model year with minimal changes
- Hybrid model: Added for 2024 model year
- Future: Expect regular updates and improvements
The Hornet is still relatively new to the market, so Dodge continues refining the formula based on customer feedback.
Pros and Cons: Should You Buy the 2024 Dodge Hornet?
What We Like
- Strong performance: 268 hp is impressive for the class
- Standard AWD: Most competitors charge extra
- Generous features: Well-equipped even in base trim
- Sporty handling: More engaging than typical compact SUVs
- Competitive pricing: Good value at $32,995 starting
Areas for Improvement
- Limited rear space: Tight for tall passengers
- Smaller cargo area: Less room than key competitors
- Design similarity: Very close to Alfa Romeo Tonale
- Fuel economy: Could be better for a compact SUV
- New brand: Limited long-term reliability data
FAQs
Q1. What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Dodge Hornet?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet achieves EPA ratings of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. Real-world highway testing shows approximately 28 mpg at 75 mph cruising speed.
Q2. How much cargo space does the Dodge Hornet have?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet offers 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. While adequate for daily use, this is less than competitors like the Honda CR-V (39.2 cubic feet) and Toyota RAV4 (37.5 cubic feet).
Q3. Is the 2024 Dodge Hornet reliable?
As a second-year model, long-term reliability data is limited. However, the Hornet uses proven Stellantis powertrains and shares components with the established Alfa Romeo Tonale platform.
Q4. What’s the difference between Hornet GT and GT Plus?
QThe GT Plus adds leather seats, a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, built-in navigation, and power-adjustable front seats for $5,000 more than the base GT model.
Q5. Does the Dodge Hornet come with all-wheel drive?
Yes, all 2024 Dodge Hornet models come standard with all-wheel drive. This is a significant advantage over many competitors that offer AWD as an expensive option.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Dodge Hornet Worth Buying?
The 2024 Dodge Hornet brings much-needed Italian flair and performance to Dodge’s lineup. With its 268-horsepower turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, and generous feature content, it offers compelling value in the competitive compact SUV segment.
Buy the Hornet if you want:
- Strong performance and sporty handling
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Generous features at the base price
- Something different from typical Japanese competitors
Consider alternatives if you need:
- Maximum cargo and rear passenger space
- Best-in-class fuel economy
- Proven long-term reliability record
The 2024 Dodge Hornet successfully combines Italian engineering with American performance expectations. While it has some compromises in space and fuel economy, its engaging driving dynamics and strong value proposition make it worth serious consideration for buyers seeking something beyond ordinary compact SUVs.
For most buyers, the base GT trim offers the best value, though the GT Plus adds worthwhile luxury features if your budget allows. Either way, the Hornet delivers a unique blend of style, performance, and features that stands out in today’s crowded compact SUV market.
