Dodge Hornet R/T Plus PHEV AWD
“Poised to Swarm and to deliver a notable sting”
By Arv Voss
OVERVIEW:
If you’ve ever longed for an agile performance car with a European flavor and influence in terms of sporty Italian styling, such as Alfa Romeo’s Veloce Tonale, but shied away from its higher price tag – no need to look further. The Dodge Hornet serves up an affordable American experience that closely rivals the classy Alfa in many ways, albeit somewhat more compact and perhaps viewed as more Spartan in its level of fit, finish and overall ambience.
The Hornet in both of its forms – a non-hybrid and a Plug in electric hybrid (PHEV) version, is a compact 5 passenger 4-door wagon. The Hybrid system is actually shared with the Alfa Tonale and both examples come with All-Wheel Drive as standard fare. The Hornet provides less passenger and cargo space than some other compact SUV competitors, but outshines them in its on-road manners. Dodge also equips its models with an impressive list of standard features such as a digital gauge display, state of the art infotainment technology and automated emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection.
MODEL AVAILABILITY:
Model availability includes the GT, GT Plus, R/T PHEV and R/t Plus PHEV ranging in base price from,$32,330 to $47,530. There are other option packages that will bump up the final sticker.
DRIVING FORCE:
Hornet GT models draw their motive force from a 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder that generates 268 horses with a 9 speed automatic transmission and AWD. The R/t model is the first Plug-in Hybrid for Dodge and it draws its energy from a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-banger along with an electric motor for a combined 288 horsepower. The transmission is a six-speed automatic that also comes with AWD. This powertrain is capable of temporarily boosting output buy 30 horsepower vis Dodge’s Powershot feature engaged by pulling both paddle shifters at the same time. 0-60 mph is estimated as reachable in 5.6 seconds. EPA gas mileage estimates are 21 mpg city and 29 mpg hwy.
The R/T PHEV model comes with a 12.0-kWH battery pack that Dodge claims is good for 30 miles plus of electric power per charge, and charging time with a level 2 charger is roughly 2.5 hours.
CREATURE COMFORTS:
The cabin roominess of the Hornet matches that of the Tonale –spacious up front and limited for rear occupants. Basic controls and the infotainment system screen is angled slightly toward the driver and there is a tall automatic gear shift lever in the center console. The Hornet and Tonale share the same steering wheel with the center logo brand specific along with an integrated ignition switch under the left spoke.
Standard upholstery is Black with Red stitching, while the GT Plus trim comes in leather.An optional Track Package is faux-suede and there is also an optionally available Red leather interior.
CONNECTIVITY AND INFOTAINMENT:
All Hornet models are provided with a 10.3-inchinfotain,ment touch screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. The technology interface is the latest Uconnect 5 system that’s inuse on other Stellantis models. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard along with Amazon Alexa connectivity. A Harmon/Kardon stereo upgrade for the GT Plus adds wireless smartphone charging pad.
DRIVER-ASSISTANCE AND SAFETY FEATURES:
The Hornet delivers a host of standard automated convenience and safety features as well a list of optional driving aid features including the Tech Package with adaptive cruise control and Lane Centering and more.
AS TESTED:
My Dodge Hornet Was an R/T Plus PHEV model. The exterior finish was a bright metallic Blu Bayou while the interio was Black with Red leather seats. The base price was set at $44,995. While optional features and packages bumped the final sticker price to $50,805.
WARRANTY COVERAGE:
A limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles and a powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles.
PERFORMANCE:
The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus PHEV is not only aesthetically pleasing, it delivers a spirited overall feel. Acceleration was brisk and the handling characteristics were sporty and agile with a quick response. It is ready to swarm and capable of stinging the competitive set.
SPECIFICATIONS: Dodge Hornet R/T Plus PHEV
Base Price: $44,995.
Price as Tested: $50,805.
Engine Type and Size: 1.3-liter inline turbocharged and intercooled SOHC, 16-valve four cylinder PHEV – 177 hp, 199 lb-ft.: + 2 AC motors, 44 and 121 hp. 39 and 184 lb.-ft. (Combined output: 288 hp, 383 lb.-ft. :12.- kWh lithium battery pack” :7.4-kW onboard charger)
Horsepower (bhp): 288 @ rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 383 @ rpm
Transmission: 9 speed automatic. F/R six speed Aisin F21-250 direct drive PHEV Automatic.
Drive Train: Front engine – rear motor AWD
Suspension: Front – MacPherson Four-wheel independent with Koni FSD shock absorbers .
Rear – Chapman suspension with rear stabilizer bar and Koni FSD shock absorbers
Brakes: Four-wheel discs, ABS, all-speed traction control, electronic brake force distribution and Brake assist. Dodge branded Brembo four-piston fixed front calipers and floating rear performance brake system.
Tires: Goodyear Eagle Sport All Season 225/55 R18 98V mounted on 5-“U” spoke black metallic alloy wheels.
Wheelbase: 103.8 inches
Length Overall: 178.3 inches
Width: 72.5 inches
Height: 63.8 inches
Curb Weight: 4,150 lbs. – est.
Fuel Capacity: 11.2 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 21 mpg city- 29 mpg highway /
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: 5.6 seconds – Top speed 128 mph
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