Overview
The 2026 Dodge Hornet is Dodge's first compact SUV — borrowing platform from Alfa Romeo Tonale and adding Dodge's performance tuning and aggressive styling. It's a genuine performance-oriented compact SUV with PHEV capability.
The Hornet shares its architecture with the Alfa Romeo Tonale — a sophisticated Euro-engineered platform. This brings genuine chassis competence to Dodge at a practical price point.
2026 Trims & Pricing
GT gas and R/T PHEV variants.
Full Specs
| Spec | GT (gas) | R/T PHEV |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 2.0L Turbo I-4 | 1.3L Turbo + Electric Motor |
| HP | 268 hp | 285 hp (310 PowerShot) |
| EV Range | N/A | 32 mi EPA |
| MPG / MPGe | ~24/31 mpg | ~83 MPGe combined |
| 0–60 | ~6.5 s | ~5.6 s |
| Drive | AWD std | eAWD std |
| Cargo | 55.3 cu ft max | 50.5 cu ft max |
Gas Powertrain
EPA highway rating measured at 55 mph. Real-world highway at 70 mph is typically 32–34 mpg. Towing near max capacity reduces highway fuel economy 20–30% — budget accordingly for trailer trips.
Unlike most compact SUVs where AWD is a $1,500–$2,000 option, every Hornet includes AWD as standard. This is a significant value differentiator for snow-belt buyers.
The GT's 2.0L turbocharged engine delivers 268 hp with AWD standard — strong for a compact SUV. Sport-tuned suspension and a performance exhaust note give the Hornet a more aggressive character than most rivals.
PHEV System
R/T PHEV has a "PowerShot" boost mode that adds 25 hp for up to 15 seconds during acceleration. The result is a brief 310-hp thrust — useful for highway merging or spirited driving.
The R/T PHEV pairs a 1.3L turbocharged engine with an electric motor for 285 hp and 32 miles of EV range. Most daily commutes run entirely on electricity; gasoline provides extended range backup.
PowerShot & Character
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The Hornet's sport-tuned suspension and AWD-standard give it noticeably more engaging dynamics than the Chevrolet Equinox or Ford Escape. It's not a muscle car, but Dodge's DNA is clearly present.
Shared architecture with the Alfa Romeo Tonale (Italian cousin). The Hornet brings Dodge styling — aggressive front fascia, performance-oriented interior with Uconnect 10.25-inch — to a practical AWD compact crossover.
Reliability
Hornet is new for 2023. Initial reliability data is mixed — some quality control issues reported in early production. PHEV system is new and has limited long-term data. Recommend 2025 model year.
| Area | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo Gas | Good | Shared with Alfa Tonale; early data positive |
| PHEV System | Average (early) | New system; some charging issues reported in early units |
| eAWD System | Good | eAWD performing reliably in initial data |
| Uconnect 5 | Good | Well-proven platform; stable and reliable |
| Build Quality | Average | Some panel gap and interior finish complaints early on |
| Overall | Average | Early adopter risk; recommend 2025 for best maturity |
Consult Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA for the specific model year you are considering. Build year matters significantly.
Recalls
Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls using your 17-digit VIN. New recalls are issued regularly — check before any used vehicle purchase.