Dodge has unveiled its new SUV. The Dodge Hornet bursts onto the scene with the aim of boosting brand sales and, above all, starting its electrification process. It is a model based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale and presumes, among other things, to have a plug-in hybrid mechanics.
The wait is over. Dodge
has presented its new and expected SUV in society. The dodge hornet has burst onto the scene loaded with very important news and with the difficult task of giving a strong boost to the sales of the well-known American brand. A model closely related to the Alfa Romeo Tonale and that, without a doubt, marks a turning point.
The new Hornet will allow Dodge to directly attack one of the most important segments of the market. That of the compact SUVs. In addition to having extensive technological equipment and a characteristic design, it can boast of being Dodge’s first hybrid vehicle. Let’s go into details.
The design of the new Dodge Hornet
We are facing a quickly recognizable model. It is undeniable that numerous points of union have been maintained with the Alfa Romeo SUV. However, as you might expect, Dodge has tried to Americanize the Tonale’s design so that the new Hornet has its own personality. It is at the front where the features of this new SUV are concentrated.
The front has been completely redesigned and not only has optical groups with LED technology. The grille and bumper are also different from the Tonale. At the rear, the changes are minor and are limited to some taillights whose light signature is different. Also, the Dodge badge is backlit on this part of the vehicle. The side view is practically identical.
It is important to note that the new Hornet will be available in two versions, GT and R/T. Depending on the configured finish level, it will show one or another design element. For example, 17-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard. The R/T variant has 18-inch wheels. The optional Track package has also been announced with which to bring out all the character that this model hides.
The interior and technology of the new Dodge Hornet
Leaving aside the outside, if we go into the interior of the new hornet we will quickly be enveloped by a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The cabin is elegant and, in the specific case of the driving position, we can describe it as digital and connected. is combined a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch touch screen.
The touch screen is the “nerve center” of the interior and allows you to operate the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. It is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, it allows access to numerous online digital services. Other equipment to highlight are the Harman-Kardon sound system and the wireless charger for compatible mobile phones.
As for the list of driving assistance systems, we can say that it is broad and solvent. Standard includes, among other functions, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistant and blind spot detection with rear crossing. Optionally, other systems such as traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control and traffic jam assistant can be equipped.
The engines of the new Dodge Hornet
The new Hornet can boast of being Dodge’s first plug-in hybrid car (PHEV). The entry on the scene of this model, in addition to being key to giving a boost to the sales of the American brand, is also a turning point in its particular process of transition to electric mobility.
The plug-in hybrid version is also the most powerful engine in the Hornet range. The powertrain is made up of a 1.3-litre petrol engine which is combined with a small electric motor to develop a total power of over 289 hp (285 hp) and 519 Nm of maximum torque. It is driven through a six-speed automatic gearbox and boasts an all-wheel drive setup. A key component is the 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery as, thanks to it, the Hornet can travel up to 48 kilometers in 100% electric mode.
Dodge also proposes a conventional mechanics for those drivers who do not want to bet on sustainable mobility. It’s about a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 272 hp (268 hp) and 400 Nm of maximum torque. This block is connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system.
Release date and prices of the new Dodge Hornet
When will it hit the market? The order book for the new Hornet is now open in the United States. The starting price is $29,995 (€29,465). The first units will arrive at dealerships at the end of the year. Those interested in getting the R/T version will have to wait until spring 2023. The production process will take place in Italy. In the same Stellantis facilities where the Alfa Romeo Tonale is manufactured.
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Stellantis