Unleashing the Dodge Hornet Compact SUV: A Vehicle with a Sting

The compact SUV segment is buzzing with excitement, thanks to the introduction of the 2025 Dodge Hornet. The 2024 Dodge Hornet marked a significant transition from a muscle car-centric brand to a compact SUV, emphasizing its practicality and technology integration. This stylish, performance-driven vehicle has quickly become a standout contender among the best compact SUVs of 2025, offering a perfect combination of power, design, and affordability. Whether you’re navigating city streets or hitting the highway, the Dodge Hornet delivers a dynamic driving experience that’s hard to beat.

For eco-conscious drivers, the Dodge Hornet hybrid options provide a fuel-efficient alternative without sacrificing performance. The hybrid model delivers excellent mileage while maintaining the same exhilarating driving dynamics that Dodge is known for. The plug-in hybrid model offers a unique combination of horsepower, electric capabilities, and advanced powertrain options.

1. Engine Specs and Power: The 2025 Dodge Hornet offers multiple engine options, including a turbocharged base model and a powerful hybrid variant. With up to 265 horsepower, the Hornet ensures every drive is both smooth and thrilling. Its advanced transmission system provides seamless gear shifts, optimizing both power and fuel efficiency.
2. Fuel Efficiency Ratings: Efficiency meets performance in the Dodge Hornet, with fuel efficiency ratings that make it a top contender among affordable compact SUVs from Dodge. The hybrid model takes it a step further, offering even greater savings at the pump.
3. Interior and Technology Features: The Dodge Hornet interior and technology features combine modern design with cutting-edge functionality. Highlights include:
   1. A sleek digital instrument cluster.
   2. A large infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
   3. Advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking.
   4. Intelligent speed assist as part of the advanced safety features.
   5. A heated steering wheel in the base trim and the luxury of a leather steering wheel in higher trims.
4. Performance and Design: The Hornet’s bold exterior design complements its sporty nature. Aggressive styling, sharp LED headlights, and aerodynamic lines ensure it stands out in any parking lot. Its performance and design are tailored to appeal to drivers who want both utility and style.

The 2025 Dodge Hornet is packed with cutting-edge technology and infotainment features that make every drive more enjoyable. At the heart of the Hornet’s tech suite is a standard 10.25-inch fully customizable full-color touchscreen with Uconnect 5. This intuitive system provides easy access to vehicle stats, navigation, and entertainment options, ensuring you stay connected and informed on the go.
For seamless smartphone integration, the Hornet offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to access your favorite apps and media without the hassle of cords. The 12-inch Driver Information Digital Cluster Display provides vital vehicle information at a glance, keeping you informed about your vehicle’s performance and status. Higher-end trims take the audio experience to the next level with a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and a wireless charger, ensuring your devices stay powered up and your music sounds crystal clear.

The 2025 Dodge Hornet strikes a perfect balance between compact size and ample cargo space, making it a versatile choice for a variety of needs. The cargo area is accessible via a convenient hatch, and the rear seats fold flat to accommodate larger items, providing a segment-splitting cargo space that is larger than subcompact SUVs but not as big as some rivals in the compact category.
While the Hornet’s interior room may not be as spacious as some competitors, it still offers ample space for front-seat riders to enjoy a comfortable ride. The rear-seat passengers, however, might find the space a bit cramped, especially on longer journeys. Despite this, the Hornet’s interior is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and utility, making it a practical choice for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

The Dodge Hornet doesn’t just compete—it dominates. In a market filled with great options, the Hornet takes the lead with its balance of affordability, power, and advanced features. When compared to competitors, the Hornet consistently outshines them in areas like engine performance, technology, and fuel efficiency. The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T further enhances this reputation with its impressive specifications, performance features, and hybrid powertrain.

One of the biggest draws of the Hornet is its accessibility. As one of the affordable compact SUVs from Dodge, it offers premium features at a price that fits within most budgets. Financing options and incentives make it even easier to get behind the wheel. The various Hornet models are competitively positioned in the market, offering a range of performance metrics, warranty details, and design options to suit different needs.

The 2025 Dodge Hornet Hybrid is a standout in its class when it comes to fuel economy, offering an impressive estimated 29 mpg combined. When factoring in the electric range from the onboard battery pack, the Hornet Hybrid achieves an outstanding 77 MPGe combined. In real-world testing, the Hornet Hybrid managed 27 mpg on a 200-mile 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, showcasing its efficiency even at higher speeds.
One of the most attractive features of the Hornet Hybrid is its plug-in hybrid powertrain, which allows for up to 32 miles of all-electric driving range. This makes it an excellent option for eco-conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Hornet Hybrid delivers exceptional fuel economy and a smooth, efficient driving experience.

For those who crave excitement behind the wheel, the 2025 Dodge Hornet GT is the perfect choice. This performance-oriented trim is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that produces an impressive 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. With this powerful engine, the Hornet GT can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.1 seconds, delivering a thrilling driving experience.
The GT trim also features a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances handling and provides a more dynamic ride. The red-painted Dodge calipers and 18-inch wheels add a touch of sporty flair to the Hornet’s exterior, making it stand out on the road. Inside, the GT trim offers premium features like ventilated leather seating and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, ensuring you travel in comfort and style. With its impressive performance capabilities and luxurious features, the Hornet GT is an attractive option for drivers who want a compact SUV that delivers both power and sophistication.

Looking to experience the Hornet firsthand? Visit a Dodge dealership near you to test drive the Dodge Hornet and explore current deals. Many dealerships are offering Dodge Hornet financing and incentives, making now the perfect time to buy.