The concept of platform sharing in the automotive world often sparks debate, particularly among enthusiasts. Questions arise about the uniqueness and quality of a vehicle when it shares its foundation with another model. However, history shows that platform sharing can lead to exceptional vehicles. Badge engineering, a related but distinct practice, involves minimal modifications to a vehicle sold under different brands. The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus finds itself at the intersection of these two concepts, and after spending a week behind the wheel, we delve into its merits and place within the Dodge lineup.
Platform sharing has a long and successful history in the automotive industry. From Chrysler’s transformation of the K-Car into the groundbreaking Dodge Caravan in 1984, to Ford’s Aerostar and Explorer drawing from the Ranger pickup, and Toyota’s versatile platform underpinning the Camry, Sienna, and Lexus RX, the benefits are clear. Even the “WK2” Jeep Grand Cherokee owes its platform to the W166 Mercedes-Benz ML.
These examples illustrate how manufacturers utilize “hard points” within a platform—fixed points dictating the placement of body panels and interior components. While elements like wheelbase, track width, and ride height can be adjusted, platform sharing allows automakers to efficiently adapt a base design for various vehicle types, maximizing development cost-effectiveness.
Badge engineering, on the other hand, is a practice of creating a single vehicle, making superficial changes, and marketing it under multiple brands. American automotive history is replete with examples, famously highlighted by Fortune magazine’s critique of General Motors’ A-Bodies in the 1980s. Chrysler’s Neon twins, sold as both Dodge and Plymouth, and Ford’s Mercury Sable, a subtly altered Taurus, exemplify this approach. Even today, the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ partnership showcases modern badge engineering.
While badge engineering may involve minor tweaks like suspension adjustments, paint options, wheel designs, or even engine variations, it’s a more streamlined approach compared to extensive platform adaptation. Both strategies serve the purpose of cost distribution and maximizing sales and profitability.
Decoding the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus: An Alfa Romeo Connection
To truly understand the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus, it’s essential to acknowledge its relationship with the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Alfa Romeo, positioned within Stellantis alongside Dodge, aims to represent performance, Italian style, and attainable luxury in the US market. While models like the Giulia sedan and Stelvio crossover embody these ideals, their market appeal is limited by price and brand positioning. Alfa Romeo needed a smaller, more accessible offering, leading to the creation of the Tonale.
While the exact development narrative remains behind corporate doors, the Dodge Hornet emerged seemingly as a later addition, subsequent to the Tonale’s initial unveiling. The 2024 Dodge Hornet, particularly the R/T Plus model, shares its fundamental architecture with the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Body panels are almost entirely mirrored, save for a distinct Dodge front fascia. Inside, the similarities continue, with an identical interior layout, only differentiated by the swapped positions of the drive mode and start/stop buttons. The powertrain, suspension, and technology are largely carried over from its Italian sibling.
Key Specifications and Features of the Hornet R/T Plus
While every Alfa Romeo Tonale comes exclusively as a plug-in hybrid, Dodge offers the Hornet GT with a conventional turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing a more accessible entry point with a starting price of $31,400. However, the reviewed 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus represents the fully-equipped plug-in hybrid variant, mirroring the Tonale’s powertrain. It combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a 15.5 kWh battery pack, delivering a combined output of 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Dodge claims an all-electric range of up to 30 miles for the Hornet R/T Plus.
The “all-wheel drive” system is realized through the combustion engine powering the front wheels and an electric motor driving the rear wheels. A six-speed Aisin automatic transmission manages front-axle power distribution via an open differential. Engaging Sport mode and utilizing the PowerShot feature—providing a temporary 30-horsepower boost—while aggressively accelerating can highlight the open differential’s limitations with noticeable torque steer.
Activating PowerShot mode enables a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.6 seconds, which Dodge touts as class-leading for PHEVs in the Hornet’s segment.
The suspension setup mirrors the Alfa Romeo Tonale, featuring Koni FSD dampers on the base Hornet GT and optional two-stage adaptive dampers on the Hornet R/T Plus. The test vehicle came with the Blacktop and Track Pack Bundle, incorporating these adaptive dampers, along with 20-inch wheels, Alcantara seats, and visual enhancements. Brembo four-piston front brake calipers are standard on the R/T trim.
Inside the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus, the cabin provides a comfortable and well-appointed environment. The seats offer adequate bolstering for support without feeling overly restrictive. A three-spoke steering wheel of reasonable thickness frames sizable metal paddle shifters—a signature Alfa Romeo design cue. The gear selector maintains a conventional “PRNDL” layout on the center console.
Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 infotainment system takes center stage, offering a user-friendly interface, though it can occasionally feel slightly sluggish. It’s paired with a Harman/Kardon sound system that delivers adequate audio quality. The Hornet R/T Plus features a fully digital instrument cluster, presenting a wealth of driving information in a clear and organized manner without being overwhelming.
The price tag for this Dodge-badged, Alfa Romeo-engineered compact crossover reaches an eye-raising $54,000 and beyond in fully loaded R/T Plus configuration. While dealer incentives and potential tax credits (at least $6,000 via Chrysler Capital lease for plug-in R/T models) can mitigate the financial impact, it remains a significant investment. Even with incentives, the Hornet R/T Plus positions itself as a premium offering in the compact crossover segment.
Driving Dynamics: Experiencing the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus
Driving the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus evokes a strong sense of familiarity with the Tonale. The startup chime and audible cues are virtually indistinguishable, and the driving experience is remarkably similar.
In electric-only mode, the Hornet R/T Plus demonstrates sufficient power for urban driving. Acceleration feels responsive at city speeds and remains adequate for highway cruising, though passing maneuvers reveal the limitations of the electric motor’s 121 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque against the vehicle’s 4,140-pound weight. However, engaging the full powertrain by pressing the accelerator firmly brings the turbocharged three-cylinder engine into play. The transition is seamless, and the combined power output makes the Hornet R/T Plus surprisingly quick for its class.
In hybrid operation, ample power is readily available across the rev range. The two power sources work harmoniously, although aggressive acceleration from a standstill in hybrid mode can induce noticeable torque steer. The paddle shifters offer manual gear control, but the engine’s power delivery tends to flatten out before reaching the redline, a characteristic of small, quick-spooling turbos optimized for city driving responsiveness.
When pushed through corners, the Hornet R/T Plus exhibits commendable grip and composure. The steering, while lighter than some might prefer, offers quick turn-in response—a signature Alfa Romeo trait. Body roll is well-managed, and the adaptive dampers deliver a generally comfortable ride quality in both urban and highway environments.
Braking performance is also well-executed, providing a confident pedal feel with a progressive engagement. Intriguingly, Sport mode enhances regenerative braking, contributing to energy recuperation and a more dynamic driving feel.
Overall, the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T is a competent performer, but it lacks a truly engaging or dramatic driving character. It prioritizes efficiency and comfortable cruising over outright sportiness.
The Hornet’s Crucial Role for Dodge
The Dodge brand currently faces a transitional period. Iconic models like the Charger and Challenger are nearing the end of their production runs. The Durango SUV’s future is uncertain, having outlived its platform counterparts, the WK2 Jeep and W166 Mercedes. The Grand Caravan minivan ceased production in 2020. While Ram trucks operate somewhat independently within Stellantis, the Dodge brand is seeking new direction.
With a new Charger on the horizon, the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus assumes a critical role in maintaining Dodge’s presence in the market. It presents a compelling package, especially if priced strategically. Comparing the sticker price of the loaded Hornet R/T Plus to its Alfa Romeo Tonale sibling reveals a narrow gap—around $3,000. Factoring in available incentives can widen this gap. Looking at the gas-powered Hornet GT, the price difference becomes substantial, making the badge-engineered approach more commercially justifiable.
Enthusiasts might express skepticism towards the Hornet R/T Plus, and from a purist perspective, such criticism may be valid. However, appealing to niche preferences doesn’t drive mainstream sales. The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus emerges as a well-rounded crossover, offering a touch more excitement than competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross. It projects a bolder image through marketing and design compared to models like the Kia Seltos. Furthermore, it integrates modern technology, encompassing driver assistance features and a user-friendly infotainment system.
For the typical crossover buyer, the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus delivers on essential attributes. It provides a blend of performance, efficiency (in PHEV form), technology, and distinctive Dodge styling, positioning it as a competitive option in the crowded compact crossover segment.
