2023 Dodge Hornet: A New Electrified SUV Arrives.. 2023 Dodge Hornet: A New Electrified SUV Arrives. After pushing the Journey into retirement in 2020, a void has been created within Dodge’s catalog. It is with this in mind that the American manufacturer unveiled, as part of Dodge Speed Week, a new compact SUV: the 2023 Hornet.
Recall that the name Hornet was first used in the 1940s at Hudson, then in the 1970s at AMC. This name was also used to baptize a Dodge concept in 2006.
The 2023 Hornet is built on the same architecture as the Alfa Romeo Tonale which will arrive early next year. Stylistically, we recognize Dodge’s signature. Depending on the angles, the Hornet makes us think of a smaller format Durango .
An electrified R/T version.
Dodge also boasts of offering the most powerful compact SUV in its segment. Like what, even in a niche where pragmatism is in the spotlight, Dodge tries to stand out with performance. Under the hood of the R/T trim houses a turbocharged 1.3L four-cylinder engine. It’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, a 90 kW electric motor and a 15 kWh battery. This technology offers the possibility of traveling up to 50 kilometers in all-electric mode, according to data estimated by the manufacturer.
The whole thing develops a power of 285 horsepower and 383 lb-ft. Thanks to the electric system, the PowerShot function provides an additional 25 horsepower on demand.
It only takes 6.2 seconds to reach 97 km/h.
A more affordable GT version.
At the entry level of this new model, Dodge offers the GT version. It has a base price below $40,000 for the Canadian market. It is entitled to the Hurricane engine, a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder unit. It develops 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. This engine, calibrated to be powered by premium gasoline (91 octane) works in conjunction with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The GT version reaches 97 km/h in 6.5 seconds.
Both with the GT and R/T versions, the new Hornet comes standard with four-wheel drive. Both versions can tow up to 907 kilograms.
On board, the Hornet features 12.3-inch digital instrumentation under the driver’s eyes. It also benefits from the Uconnect 5 infotainment system and a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
The return of the GLH?
During the unveiling of the Hornet, Dodge also unveiled a concept version of a Hornet GT GLH. It will be remembered that this acronym which means «Goes Like Hell» designated the performance version of the Dodge Omni of the 1980s. Without mentioning further details, the American manufacturer hinted that the weight/power ratio was more interesting with the Hornet GTGLH. Customized by Direct Connection, this concept is entitled to a lowered suspension, 20-inch wheels, a less restrictive exhaust system as well as decorative strips.
Dodge will begin production of the Hornet GT in the last quarter and hopes to deliver the first units sometime in December of this year. We will have to wait until spring 2023 to see the R/T version arrive. It will be assembled in Naples, Italy.
00:00 Dodge Hornet A New Electrified SUV Arrives.
00:51 An electrified R/T version.
01:48 A more affordable GT version.
02:50 The return of the GLH?
