The 2023 Dodge Hornet arrives with two distinct powertrains, each built around standard all-wheel drive and a compact crossover layout. The GT uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine rated at 268 horsepower, while the R/T pairs a 1.3-liter engine with an electric motor for 288 horsepower and quicker acceleration. At 183.9 inches long with 27 cubic feet of cargo space, it balances performance and utility, but the details behind its equipment and efficiency are more complex.
Key Takeaways
- The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 268 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque, and standard AWD.
- The Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid pairs a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with an electric motor for 288 combined horsepower.
- GT reaches 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, while the R/T does it in 5.6 seconds.
- The Hornet measures 183.9 inches long, 73.4 inches wide, 64.7 inches tall, with a 105.1-inch wheelbase.
- Cargo space is 27 cubic feet behind the seats and 55 cubic feet with them folded, plus a 10.3-inch infotainment screen.
2023 Dodge Hornet Powertrain Options
The 2023 Dodge Hornet offers three distinct powertrain configurations centered on performance and efficiency. DODGE places a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the Hornet GT, pairing it with a nine-speed automatic transmission for measured response and refined shift logic.
The R/T model introduces a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with an electric motor, producing 288 horsepower while preserving mechanical efficiency. Both configurations benefit from all-wheel drive, standard across the lineup, which improves traction and directional control on wet pavement, gravel, and other variable surfaces.
This architecture supports a more liberated driving experience by reducing dependency on ideal conditions and expanding usable capability. The transmission calibration is shared across models, contributing to consistent drivability and smooth power delivery.
Hornet GT Horsepower, Torque, and Acceleration
Building on the Hornet’s turbocharged performance-focused powertrains, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT packs 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
This output gives the Dodge Hornet GT strong midrange pull and responsive acceleration, especially when merging or passing. A nine-speed automatic transmission manages the power band with closely spaced ratios, supporting smooth shifts and efficient delivery.
Standard all-wheel drive helps transfer torque to the pavement with greater traction, improving stability during hard launches and on low-grip surfaces.
In testing, the GT reaches 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, a figure that places it near the front of the compact SUV segment. Its estimated 140 mph top speed further reflects its performance orientation.
How the Hornet R/T Hybrid Works
The Hornet R/T Hybrid combines a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with a rear-mounted electric motor, producing a combined 288 horsepower through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
A 15.5-kWh battery pack supports electric-assist driving modes and provides an estimated electric-only range of more than 30 miles.
The system is engineered to shift smoothly between gasoline and electric power, improving both efficiency and acceleration response.
R/T Hybrid Powertrain
A plug-in hybrid powertrain gives the Dodge Hornet R/T a more technical balance of efficiency and performance, pairing a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with a rear-mounted electric motor for a combined output of 288 horsepower.
This hybrid powertrain uses a 12.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack to support low-emission operation and extended electric driving.
In practical terms, the system is engineered to preserve fuel economy without surrendering acceleration, giving drivers a broader range of motion between charges and fuel stops.
The 6-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery with smooth, precise shifts, helping the turbocharged engine and electric motor work in concert.
For compact-SUV buyers seeking liberated efficiency and responsive capability, the Dodge Hornet R/T presents a mechanically advanced package that favors both range and usable performance.
Electric-Assist Driving Modes
Electric-assist driving modes allow the Hornet R/T to blend its turbocharged 1.3-liter engine and rear-mounted electric motor according to demand, helping the plug-in hybrid deliver both efficiency and responsive performance.
In this hybrid powertrain, the control system can prioritize electric operation, gasoline propulsion, or a combined output of 288 horsepower, depending on load and speed. A 12.0-kWh lithium-ion battery supports more than 30 miles of electric-only driving range, giving drivers room to move with reduced fuel use.
The 6-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery smoothly, while regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration and returns it to the battery.
The result is a technically balanced system that preserves performance, extends driving range, and supports flexible, low-emission travel without compromising the Hornet R/T’s immediate response.
Hornet 0-60 Times and Top Speed
With standard all-wheel drive helping put power down cleanly, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT reaches 60 mph in approximately 6.5 seconds and carries an estimated top speed of 140 mph.
These Hornet 0-60 times position the GT model as a compact crossover with legitimate pace, while AWD supports confident launches and stable high-speed behavior.
The R/T model moves more quickly, posting a 5.6-second sprint to 60 mph and a maximum horsepower rating of 288, reflecting its plug-in hybrid advantage.
- GT model: balanced acceleration and usable road speed
- R/T model: stronger thrust through electrified torque delivery
- AWD: improved traction during hard acceleration
- estimated top speed: 140 mph for the GT
- maximum horsepower: 288 on the R/T
For drivers seeking technical efficiency without surrendering freedom of motion, the Hornet delivers measurable performance rather than symbolic promises.
2023 Dodge Hornet Dimensions and Cargo Space
The 2023 Dodge Hornet measures 183.9 inches long, 73.4 inches wide, and 64.7 inches high, with a 105.1-inch wheelbase that supports its compact SUV stance and stable road manners.
Its passenger layout prioritizes the front cabin, while rear-seat space is comparatively limited for taller occupants.
Cargo capacity totals 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats and increases to 55 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though this is below some key rivals.
Exterior Size Measurements
Measuring 178.8 inches long, 73.4 inches wide, and 63.2 inches tall, the 2023 Dodge Hornet presents compact SUV proportions with a stable, upright stance.
These Dodge Hornet Specs shape exterior styling through a balanced overall length, broad track feel, and a height that supports a commanding road view. The dimensions reinforce agility without sacrificing utility, while standard AWD supports confident movement on changing surfaces.
Cargo space measures 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 55 cubic feet when folded, giving the vehicle practical freedom for daily demands.
- Compact footprint aids maneuverability
- Width supports planted road presence
- Height improves visibility
- Cargo capacity scales with need
- AWD complements the chassis
Passenger Space Layout
Passenger accommodation in the 2023 Dodge Hornet reflects its compact SUV footprint, prioritizing front-seat comfort and usable cargo flexibility over generous rear-seat room.
The passenger space layout favors an open, spacious layout up front, where occupants benefit from supportive seating and a cabin shaped by modern styling. Interior design cues drawn from Alfa Romeo influence give the Hornet a technical, upscale character without sacrificing practicality.
Rear-seat space is more limited, and taller passengers may find legroom and headroom constrained on longer trips.
Standard technology, including a 10.3-inch infotainment display, reinforces the cabin’s contemporary presentation.
Cargo Capacity Figures
Cargo figures for the 2023 Dodge Hornet reflect its compact, performance-oriented packaging, with a total of 27 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and up to 55 cubic feet when the rear seatbacks are folded flat.
This cargo volume gives the compact SUV a usable balance of utility and driver-focused design, though the rear-seat figure trails some rivals.
- Overall dimensions support a tight footprint.
- Fold-flat seats improve cargo capacity.
- 55 cubic feet creates a more spacious load area.
- 27 cubic feet suits daily practicality.
- Rear room remains constrained for taller occupants.
Hornet Interior Space and Seating Comfort
The 2023 Dodge Hornet offers a roomy front cabin that gives driver and front passenger ample space for everyday comfort, while the rear seat area is comparatively tight and may feel cramped for taller occupants.
Hornet’s cabin balances a spacious cabin up front with rear seating that limits passenger comfort, especially on longer trips. The interior design borrows cues from the Alfa Romeo Tonale, producing a modern, driver-focused layout with practical controls and restrained detailing.
Standard trim materials include black cloth and synthetic leather, while leather and red leather upgrades add a more premium finish. Cargo capacity remains functional at 55 cubic feet with the rear seats folded and 27 cubic feet behind them, though this trails some rivals.
2023 Dodge Hornet Fuel Economy
Fuel economy for the 2023 Dodge Hornet is respectable, though it does not lead the compact SUV class. The standard 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is rated at 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, placing it in the competitive middle tier.
A GT Plus test returned 28 mpg on the highway, indicating that real-world efficiency can remain close to the official figure under steady conditions.
Still, the Hornet’s fuel economy is not class-leading, and several rivals achieve stronger returns. For drivers seeking more freedom from fuel stops, the R/T model is expected to improve efficiency further through hybrid assistance and an electric-only driving range beyond 30 miles.
- GT: 21 mpg city
- GT: 29 mpg highway
- GT Plus: 28 mpg highway test
- R/T model: expected EV range over 30 miles
- Overall: competitive, not segment-best
Hornet AWD, Handling, and Road Feel
Beyond efficiency, the 2023 Dodge Hornet’s driving character is shaped by its standard all-wheel-drive system on both the GT and R/T models. Hornet AWD supports traction and stability on wet, dry, and uneven pavement, giving the crossover a more secure stance when freedom means moving with confidence.
On the GT, the turbocharged engine delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing immediate response and strong midrange pull. The R/T’s plug-in hybrid setup sharpens performance further, reaching 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
Torque Vectoring enhances handling by directing power where it is needed during cornering and low-grip maneuvers. The result is an engaging, controlled driving experience that favors balance over outright sportiness.
Compared with Mazda rivals, the Hornet may feel less sharply tuned, yet it offers a more composed and rewarding driving experience than the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.
Hornet Tech and Safety Features
Technology and safety in the 2023 Dodge Hornet are anchored by a standard active-safety suite that includes automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection, helping reduce collision risk in everyday driving.
Standard active safety in the 2023 Dodge Hornet includes automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection, helping reduce collision risk.
Hornet tech integrates lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, supporting stable lane position and limiting unintended drift. The available adaptive cruise control adds lane-centering, easing highway travel while preserving driver control and spacing.
Inside, the infotainment system uses a 10.3-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving direct access to navigation, media, and communications.
Child door locks further reinforce cabin security for younger occupants, reflecting a practical approach to protection and autonomy.
- automated emergency braking responds to detected obstacles
- pedestrian detection expands urban safety coverage
- lane-departure warning supports disciplined vehicle placement
- adaptive cruise control reduces fatigue on open roads
- infotainment system enables seamless smartphone integration
Hornet GT vs. R/T Trim Levels
The 2023 Dodge Hornet is offered in two distinct trim levels, the GT and the R/T, each aimed at a different balance of price, power, and efficiency.
Hornet GT uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine rated at 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, delivering 0-60 mph acceleration in about 6.5 seconds. It starts at $32,330, making it the more accessible choice.
R/T trim levels add hybrid technology through a plug-in system with a rear-mounted electric motor, a 12.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, and 288 horsepower total output. This setup cuts the sprint to 60 mph to roughly 6.1 seconds and enables over 30 miles of electric-only driving.
Both versions include all-wheel drive as standard, supporting traction, stability, and performance on varied roads.
The GT emphasizes conventional gas-engine efficiency, while the R/T favors electrified capability and stronger thrust for drivers seeking more liberated motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Dodge Hornet a Good Vehicle?
Yes, the 2023 Hornet appears good. Hornet performance review notes strong acceleration; Dodge design aesthetics are aggressive; Interior comfort analysis finds front-room adequate; Safety ratings evaluation remains important; Fuel efficiency comparison and Market competition insights are mixed.
Why Is No One Buying a Dodge Hornet?
When the market trends shifted, consumer preferences favored roomier rivals. Brand perception weakened under competition analysis; marketing strategies failed to offset pricing concerns. As the adage says, all that glitters is not gold.
What Are Some Common Problems With the Dodge Hornet?
Common Dodge Hornet problems include engine issues, transmission problems, electrical faults, mediocre fuel efficiency, inconsistent interior quality, and occasional safety concerns. Some owners also report cramped rear seating and limited cargo space, affecting daily practicality.
What Are the Key Features of the Dodge Hornet?
The key features include Hornet technology features, Interior design elements, Safety innovations, Fuel efficiency ratings, Infotainment system, and Exterior styling options, with advanced connectivity, driver assistance, practical packaging, and performance-oriented engineering supporting independent mobility.
Conclusion
The 2023 Dodge Hornet closes as a compact performance crossover with a split personality: the GT acts like a turbocharged spark, while the R/T hybrid delivers a stronger, smoother surge. Standard all-wheel drive helps anchor both trims, giving the Hornet a planted, surefooted character on the road. With balanced dimensions, useful cargo space, and sharp acceleration, it stands as a finely tuned machine—part urban commuter, part athletic scalpel—built to cut through daily driving with precision.
