2023 Dodge Hornet Review
What do our experts think of the 2023 Dodge Hornet? We look at powertrain, interior options, trim levels, and more. Find out our thoughts here.
What’s New for the 2023 Dodge Hornet?
The 2023 Dodge Hornet is the beginning of a brand-new model for the brand. As such it comes with a new chassis, a new powertrain, and all-new styling.
The all-new Dodge Hornet comes with two trim levels that both share the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive.
Every Hornet also comes with a large 10.25-inch infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and an excellent user interface that’s both easy to use and quick to react. Next year will see a plug-in hybrid added to the lineup.
2023 Dodge Hornet – netcarshow.com | Shop 2023 Dodge Hornet on Carsforsale.com
The Breakdown
Sleek styling
Great engine
Above average handling
Limited cargo space
Average interior
Meh fuel economy
A great start for Hornet
2023 Dodge Specs
- 268 horsepower from base engine
- 295 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 2 available trims
- 27 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 54.7 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- 10.25-inch infotainment system
- Standard adaptive cruise control
- 3-year limited warranty
2023 Dodge Hornet Powertrain
Dodge is kicking off this new model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. That’s class-leading by quite some measure and the focus on performance doesn’t stop there.
The Hornet only comes with all-wheel drive so the understeer that front-wheel drive rivals suffer from isn’t as prevalent here. Don’t get us wrong, it’s still front-wheel biased and demonstrates torque steer from time to time but it’s better than only front-wheel drive.
The Dodge Hornet uses a nine-speed automatic transmission and has torque vectoring to help it corner. It’ll do 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds which is right in line with the also lovely-to-drive Mazda CX-30. While it’s not as nimble as the Mazda, the Hornet offers excellent power delivery, good handling, and is sincerely engaging. It feels a lot more like a tall hot hatchback than one might think just looking at it.
2023 Dodge Hornet Fuel Economy & MPG
According to the EPA, the Hornet will get up to 21 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. That’s not all that fuel efficient compared to cars like the Volkswagen Taos and the Chevrolet Trailblazer. Notably, though neither of those cars offer the power and performance of the Hornet. When the plug-in hybrid version comes online for the 2024 model year the Hornet will look even better.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
The interior of the Hornet is beautifully appointed with elegant black soft-touch materials and clean lines. The center console looks just a bit bunched up in terms of controls, switches, and knobs, but at the same time, it’s easy to find what one wants to use. Dodge will sell both faux suede seats along with genuine leather units and we think both are very good.
We found no reason to complain about headroom or legroom in either row though it’s worth noting that the center tunnel can come into contact with the driver’s right knee quite regularly. Visibility is good and the ride itself is quite comfortable and quiet too.
Cargo space is decent with 27 cubic feet behind the second row. We’d love to see more space in the cabin itself for storage but we appreciate that the space behind the second row is more generous than Honda’s HR-V and Mazda’s CX-30.
Entertainment & Technology
Both Hornet models come with a 10.25-inch infotainment system that sports an excellent user interface called Uconnect. It’s very fast, very intuitive, and full of features. Of all the systems we’ve tried, it’s one of our favorites.
In addition, Dodge includes Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay connectivity for those that prefer it. In addition, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard too. It’s bright and easy to see even on bright days when the sun bears down. In addition, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is available for those who prefer pristine audio.
Safety Features
The 2023 Dodge Hornet comes with a lot of excellent safety features. They include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition. Buyers can also add a tech package with additional driving aids.
2023 Dodge Hornet Trims & Pricing
GT – $30,735
The base Hornet comes with 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a digital gauge cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, six speakers, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and rear parking sensors.
GT Plus – $35,735
The GT Plus adds remote start, a sunroof, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, integrated navigation, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Warranties
Every Hornet comes with a very basic limited warranty that spans three years or 36,000 miles and a powertrain warranty that goes for five years or 60,000 miles. Dodge doesn’t offer complimentary maintenance of any sort which some rivals do.
What we think
2023 Dodge Hornet – media.stellantisnorthamerica.com | Shop 2023 Dodge Hornet on Carsforsale.com
The 2023 Dodge Hornet is a refreshing entry into a pretty bland segment. It prioritizes power and performance over fuel economy and that’s fun, especially at this price. It’s possible that its value won’t be as good when we get the plug-in version next year but for now, it’s one of the most enjoyable compact utility vehicles to drive.
The Hornet also well-equipped with great safety features and a comfortable interior. If you’re in the market and prefer these features we’d suggest checking out our article on new vehicle incentives before pulling the trigger.
