Dodge Hornet

The Hornet is back. Correction — the Hornet name has returned. This time, it’s a Dodge sub-compact crossover SUV. For Hornet fans, the last one manufactured was an AMC Hornet from 1970-1977. 

Dodge is manufactured in Italy. According to Road and Track, the Hornet is a “lightly rebodied” Alfa Romeo Tonale, Italy’s own version of the Hornet.

The Hornet entered the Dodge lineup in 2023, replacing the Journey. The model is smaller than the Dodge Durango. The price tag rings in it $39,820 and gets an average of 24 miles per gallon — not bad for an SUV.

This 2024 Hornet GT Plus is a feisty compact. It has a 2.0 liter turbocharge with 268 horsepower. With 9-speed automatic, it buzzes around traffic easily.

This model has many of the safety features and luxury items but at a lower price point. Subtle red stitching on the dash, along with eight speakers, resembles a higher-end SUV. Heated and ventilated seats are included on this model. The driver assist modes can be easily modified for each driver.

The lane warning chimes mean you’ve crossed the center line or to watch for vehicles in your blind spot. If the dinging is annoying, just adjust the sound volume. You can also adjust the strength and how it pulls you back to your lane, resembling a tug of war between you and the steering wheel. 

Fold in the mirrors to get in tight garage spots or when parking next to that monster truck at the grocery store. The 10.25-inch touch screen mirrors your own tablet at home, so it’s easy to figure out climate control and other features. Add up to eight different iPhone profiles and music. If you can’t figure it out, use a voice command to set up preferences. Now, if only I could use a voice command to empty the dishwasher and take out the trash.

As it is a sub-compact, the back seats are a bit snug for adults. The hatch area behind the rear seat includes 27 cubic feet of space. Fold down the back seats for extra storage space.

The alarm system works, as I witnessed firsthand. As I was viewing the trunk space, I pressed the close button and then hopped in the back seat to check out the passenger ‘s view. Within a few seconds, the loud alarm beeped frantically. What did I do? It felt like a swarm of insects buzzing around, telling me to get out. Is that why they call it a Hornet?

Apparently I’d left the key in the front console and locked the truck. The door locked, and I crawled to the front seat to grab the keys. When I went to start the car, a warning flashed “break in attempt detected.” If that really happened, I might want to check to make sure nobody stole any valuables. 

I like how the car tells me things. When I shut off the engine, a notice on my screen said, “Remember phone on charging pad.”

It’s a sporty SUV. perfect for a small family or a solo vehicle to tool around in. And, if you like tech telling you what to do, the Hornet is for you. ♦