Dodge has revealed the first electrified vehicle to join its portfolio of soon-to-be axed V8 muscle cars, the Hornet compact utility vehicle (CUV).
Starting with looks, the new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model may appear somewhat familiar to you. That’s because the Hornet is a restyled version of the Alfa Romeo Tonale which parent company Stellantis also produces.
In keeping with the American brand’s distinctive styling though, Dodge has given the Hornet a “mail slot” style front grille as seen on models like the Charger sedan. The brand says it gives the CUV a performance-focussed appearance to match its electrified heart.
![Dodge Hornet rear three quarter view driving on bridge](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dodge-hornet-2-e1660712073214.jpg)
Looking at the vehicle from the side, it’s clear to see its Tonale roots in the form of its body lines and rear pillar. However, a new rear tail lamp stretches across the width of the body complete with Dodge’s Rhombi logo placed in the centre.
Inside, the Hornet adopts the Tonale’s driver-focussed interior with controls subtly “tipped” towards the driver. This includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
![Dodge Hornet interior view](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dodge-hornet-4-e1660711951439.jpg)
Dodge says the Hornet is the most powerful utility vehicle one can buy for under $30,000 ($NZ47,277) in the US. It’s no V8 but the Hornet still manages 213kW and 519Nm from its petrol hybrid powertrain.
The R/T variant comes with a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder adopted from the Stellantis Global Small Engine (GSE) family and is combined with a 90kW electric motor powered by a 15.5kWh battery pack. That allows the CUV to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
![Dodge Hornet side view](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dodge-hornet-5-e1660711990685.jpg)
One trick feature found on the R/T is its PowerShot feature, giving the electric motor an extra 18kW for 15-seconds of more power. Three driving modes can be selected including hybrid, electric and e-save mode to preserve battery charge.
The Hornet GT model features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder providing the driver with 197kW and 400Nm at their disposal, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
![Dodge Hornet front three quarter view in town](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dodge-hornet-3-e1660711877580.jpg)
Both powertrains come with all-wheel drive as standard.
Koni suspension handles the Hornet’s driving dynamics while optional adjustable dampers and Brembo front brake calipers can be fitted alongside a torque vectoring system.
![Dodge Hornet wheel view](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/dodge-hornet-6-e1660712030719.jpg)
The Dodge Hornet won’t be sold in New Zealand but its Alfa Romeo Tonale sibling will be from next year.