The automotive world is buzzing with new models, especially in the rapidly growing electric and hybrid segments. Amidst this electrifying shift, the Dodge Hornet R/T, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), entered the scene, aiming to inject some Dodge muscle into the compact crossover category. As a content creator specializing in auto repair insights for cardiagnosticnearme.com, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various vehicles. The Dodge Hornet Hybrid piqued my interest, promising a blend of sporty driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. But after spending considerable time with this vehicle, a crucial question emerged: Does the Dodge Hornet Hybrid live up to the hype, or is it more of a sting than a sweet spot?
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of a red Dodge Hornet R/T parked on an urban street, showcasing its aggressive styling and compact crossover proportions.
Driving Dynamics: Sporty Aspirations with Hybrid Realities
Dodge, under the Stellantis umbrella, has a knack for revitalizing older platforms, and the Hornet Hybrid is no exception. Beneath its fresh skin lies a heavily modified version of the FCA Small-Wide platform, shared with vehicles like the Jeep Compass and Fiat 500X, and most notably, its platform sibling, the Alfa Romeo Tonale. While sharing underpinnings might raise eyebrows, Dodge has managed to imbue the Hornet Hybrid with a character distinct from its Jeep and Fiat cousins.
The powertrain is where things get interesting. The Dodge Hornet Hybrid features a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine working in tandem with a rear-mounted electric motor powered by a 15.5 kWh battery pack. This setup delivers all-wheel drive capability and plug-in hybrid functionality. In electric-only mode, the Hornet Hybrid surprisingly becomes a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, a unique trait reminiscent of the Peugeot Hybrid4 system. Dodge claims a combined output of 288 horsepower and a substantial 383 lb-ft of torque.
Engage the “Sport” mode, and the Hornet Hybrid awakens its Italian DNA. The throttle response sharpens, the steering feels more direct, and the 1.3-liter turbo engine emits a raspy note, reminiscent of the Fiat 500 Abarth’s energetic character. The electric motor seamlessly fills in the torque gaps, providing brisk acceleration. The suspension, especially with the optional Koni adjustable dampers included in my test vehicle’s Plus Pack, delivers surprisingly agile handling for a crossover. It’s genuinely fun to drive in Sport mode, exhibiting levels of grip and composure unexpected in this segment.
However, the charm fades when you aim for maximum efficiency, the core purpose of a PHEV. In EV mode, the Hornet Hybrid’s sporty tuning can become its Achilles’ heel. The rear-wheel-drive setup in EV mode lacks sophisticated traction management. During a week of mixed snow and rain, any hint of rear wheel slip would abruptly trigger the gasoline engine, forcing the vehicle into hybrid mode. This transition isn’t always smooth, and in slippery conditions, it could lead to momentary fishtailing before the front wheels engaged. The system’s eagerness to switch to hybrid mode, even in situations with minor wheel slip or during range tests, proved to be a recurring annoyance. For a vehicle designed to maximize electric driving, the Hornet Hybrid’s reluctance to stay in EV mode is a significant drawback.
Image alt text: A Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV is plugged into a Level 2 charger at a public charging station, highlighting its charging port location and the ease of public charging.
Range, Battery, and Real-World Efficiency
The Dodge Hornet Hybrid boasts a 15.5 kWh battery (12 kWh usable) providing an EPA-estimated 32 miles of electric range. In real-world testing, during colder temperatures and a mix of city and highway driving, I achieved 36.4 miles on a single charge. This translates to a respectable 3.03 miles per kWh, excluding charging losses. Warmer weather would likely improve these figures, suggesting the 32-mile EPA estimate is achievable under more favorable conditions.
Once the battery depletes, the Hornet Hybrid transitions into a conventional hybrid. It’s EPA-rated for 29 MPG in combined driving, but I observed a slightly better 31 MPG in mixed conditions. While not bad, this fuel economy is comparable to larger vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan, raising questions about the Hornet Hybrid’s efficiency advantage in hybrid mode. For PHEVs, the primary goal is maximizing electric miles, and the Hornet Hybrid’s fuel economy in hybrid mode, while decent, doesn’t particularly stand out.
Charging Experience: Convenient but Not Cutting-Edge
As expected for a PHEV, the Dodge Hornet Hybrid does not offer DC fast charging capability. However, its 7.4 kW onboard charger and relatively small battery pack ensure reasonably quick Level 2 charging times. Dodge claims a full charge from empty in about 2.5 hours using Level 2 charging. For those relying on standard 110-volt Level 1 charging, a full recharge takes approximately 7.5 hours.
In practice, the Hornet Hybrid charged reliably at public Level 2 stations and reached a full charge within the claimed 7.5 hours using Level 1 charging at home. The charging experience is straightforward and aligns with typical PHEV charging expectations.
Interior and Cabin Comfort: Alfa Romeo Influence with Dodge Touches
Stepping inside the Dodge Hornet Hybrid, the Alfa Romeo Tonale influence is immediately apparent. The overall design, switchgear, and control layout are largely shared between the two models. While the Hornet Hybrid forgoes some of the Tonale’s softer materials and color-coded trim, the fundamental design and touchpoints are surprisingly upscale for a Dodge.
Image alt text: Interior shot of the Dodge Hornet R/T, focusing on the dashboard, infotainment screen, steering wheel, and Alcantara seats, highlighting the sporty and tech-forward cabin design.
The materials, though predominantly hard plastics, are well-textured and assembled. The shifter operates with a satisfying click, the window switches feel substantial, and the overall fit and finish are commendable. The optional Alcantara seats in my test vehicle offered excellent bolstering, although opting for the track pack unfortunately eliminates the ventilated seat option.
Despite being marketed as a compact crossover, the Hornet Hybrid’s interior dimensions feel somewhat confined compared to segment leaders like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. The rear seat is noticeably tight, further exacerbated by the high beltline and limited rear window area, creating a somewhat claustrophobic feeling for rear passengers. Families seeking maximum passenger and cargo space might find the Hornet Hybrid falling short.
Technology, Infotainment, and User Experience: UConnect Excellence with a Small Screen
The Dodge Hornet Hybrid incorporates Stellantis’s UConnect infotainment system, a user-friendly and responsive platform widely praised across the group’s brands. While a more distinct visual identity for each brand within UConnect would be welcome, the system itself is undeniably one of the best in the industry. It’s intuitive, quick to respond, and easy to navigate. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
However, the infotainment screen itself is on the smaller side. While functional, the smaller icons can be somewhat fiddly to use while driving. A larger display would enhance the overall tech experience and usability.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Adequate but Optional
The Dodge Hornet Hybrid offers a suite of standard and optional safety and driver-assistance features, placing it roughly in the middle of its class. Standard features include Active Driving Assist, encompassing lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, more advanced features like pedestrian and cyclist emergency braking are bundled within the optional $2,245 Tech Pack Plus.
As of this review, neither the IIHS nor NHTSA has conducted safety testing on the Dodge Hornet Hybrid, leaving its official safety ratings undetermined.
Pricing and Value: The Sting of a High Price Tag
The Dodge Hornet Hybrid R/T starts at $42,995, including destination charges. The R/T Plus trim elevates the starting price to $48,340. However, like many Stellantis vehicles, the Hornet Hybrid’s option packages quickly inflate the price. Features like blacked-out trim, gloss black wheels, adjustable suspension, and advanced driver-assistance systems are all part of separate, often costly, option packages.
The as-tested price of the vehicle reviewed, equipped with the Track Pack, Blacktop package, Tech package, and premium paint, reached a considerable $52,305 (after a sunroof delete credit). Adding to the price concern, being manufactured in Italy, the Dodge Hornet Hybrid is not eligible for federal EV tax credits for purchases. Leasing the vehicle can unlock a $7,500 tax credit, but it remains to be seen if this incentive will sway a significant number of buyers.
At this price point, the Dodge Hornet Hybrid enters the territory of premium compact crossovers from brands like BMW, Audi, and Mini. The Mini Countryman, in both gasoline and electric SE variants, competes directly on price and arguably offers a more refined and less frustrating driving experience.
Image alt text: Rear view of the Dodge Hornet R/T, emphasizing its sporty taillights, dual exhaust outlets, and “R/T” badging, highlighting its performance-oriented design.
Verdict: Style and Sportiness at a Premium
The Dodge Hornet Hybrid presents an intriguing proposition: a sporty plug-in hybrid crossover with Dodge attitude. It delivers on the sporty driving promise, particularly in Sport mode, with agile handling and brisk acceleration. The interior exhibits a level of quality and design unexpected in a Dodge, thanks to its Alfa Romeo lineage.
However, the Hornet Hybrid is ultimately hampered by its price. At an as-tested price exceeding $50,000, it struggles to justify its value against more refined and equally capable competitors. The finicky EV mode behavior, combined with a stiff ride and somewhat cramped interior, further detract from its appeal at this price.
If Dodge were to significantly reduce the price, as suggested by reports of dealer discounts, the Hornet Hybrid’s stylish design and engaging driving dynamics might become more compelling. But in the current market, at its MSRP with limited incentives, the Dodge Hornet Hybrid faces an uphill battle to win over buyers seeking a truly compelling PHEV crossover. It offers a sting of sportiness, but the price might leave a more lasting, and less pleasant, sting in your wallet.
Contact the author: [email protected]
More EV Reviews:
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid’s Still Got It
2024 Volvo EX30 Review: Living Up To The Hype
2024 Kia EV6 Long-Term Test: Software That’s Just Okay
The Lexus NX450h+ Is A Good EV Alternative, For A Price
Share this Story
Got a tip for us? Email: [email protected]
