Is The Dodge Hornet AWD?

Hornet AWD Trims and Pricing

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD will be available in two distinct trim levels for Canadian buyers: the GT and the R/T. Each offers a unique powertrain and feature set to cater to different driving needs and budgets.

The Hornet GT AWD serves as the base model, powered by a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine producing an estimated 265 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This gasoline-only powertrain is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and Dodge’s advanced all-wheel-drive system. Pricing for the Hornet GT AWD is expected to start around $38,000 CAD.

Standard equipment on the GT AWD includes 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED exterior lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and an 8.4-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are also included.

For those seeking an electrified powertrain with added performance, the Hornet R/T AWD is the top-tier model. It features a plug-in hybrid system pairing a turbocharged 1.3L inline-four engine with an electric motor and a 15.5 kWh battery pack. Combined output is a robust 285 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, sent to all four wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The R/T AWD is expected to start around $45,000 CAD.

In addition to its potent hybrid powertrain, the R/T AWD adds performance-oriented upgrades like 18-inch low-profile tires, sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and unique exterior styling cues. Inside, it gains heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and premium audio. A range of optional packages further enhance the R/T with features like a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a digital rearview mirror.

Hornet AWD Powertrain Options

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD offers two distinct powertrain choices – a conventional turbocharged gasoline engine and a plug-in hybrid electric system. Both options deliver impressive performance while prioritizing fuel efficiency.

2.0L Turbocharged Gas Engine (GT Model)

The entry-level Hornet GT is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a robust 265 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This potent powerplant is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and Dodge’s advanced all-wheel-drive system with an active transfer case.

1.3L Turbo Plug-In Hybrid (R/T Model)

For maximum efficiency without compromising performance, the range-topping Hornet R/T features a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing a combined 285 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This sophisticated hybrid system is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and the same advanced all-wheel-drive system as the GT.

All-Wheel-Drive System

Both Hornet AWD models are equipped with Dodge’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which actively monitors traction and seamlessly distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed. This advanced AWD system offers superior grip and handling in various driving conditions, making the Hornet a capable and confident performer on Canadian roads, regardless of the weather.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD boasts a bold and aggressive exterior design that sets it apart from its compact SUV rivals. Inspired by the iconic Dodge muscle car heritage, the Hornet features sleek lines, sculpted surfaces, and a muscular stance that exudes a sporty and athletic presence on the road.

At the front, the Hornet showcases Dodge’s signature split-crosshair grille design, flanked by slim LED headlights that give the SUV a menacing glare. The hood features pronounced character lines that flow seamlessly into the sculpted fenders, adding a sense of dynamism and movement to the overall design.

From the side, the Hornet’s silhouette is characterized by a sloping roofline and a raked rear window, lending the SUV a coupe-like profile. The pronounced wheel arches and available 20-inch alloy wheels further enhance the vehicle’s athletic stance, while the pronounced shoulder line and sharp body creases add visual interest and depth to the design.

At the rear, the Hornet features a distinctive LED taillight design that stretches across the width of the vehicle, complemented by a pair of trapezoidal exhaust tips that hint at the SUV’s performance potential. The rear bumper and diffuser add a touch of sportiness, while the available hands-free power liftgate provides convenient access to the cargo area.

In terms of dimensions, the Dodge Hornet AWD measures 178.8 inches in length, 73.8 inches in width, and 63.8 inches in height, making it slightly larger than its direct rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. Despite its compact footprint, the Hornet offers a generous cargo capacity of 27.1 cubic feet with the rear seats upright and 53.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, providing ample space for hauling gear or luggage.

Interior Design and Features

The interior of the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD strikes a careful balance between sporty styling and practical utility. Upon stepping inside, you’re greeted by a driver-focused cockpit that exudes a premium yet rugged character. The tasteful use of soft-touch materials, contrasted with strategic splashes of brushed aluminum accents, creates an upscale ambiance that belies the Hornet’s relatively affordable price point.

Seating is a strong suit for the Hornet AWD, with comfortable and supportive front seats that offer ample adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body types. The rear seats, while not quite as generously proportioned, still provide enough legroom and headroom for adults to ride comfortably on extended journeys. The optional heated and ventilated front seats, as well as the available heated rear seats, add an extra layer of comfort during Canadian’s harsh winters and sweltering summers.

Technology takes center stage in the Hornet’s cabin, with a sleek and intuitive 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This system not only provides seamless smartphone integration but also offers crisp graphics and responsive performance. Complementing the central display is a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster that can be customized to suit individual preferences, providing vital vehicle information at a glance.

Keeping occupants comfortable in any climate is a priority, thanks to the Hornet’s dual-zone automatic climate control system. This system not only maintains consistent temperatures throughout the cabin but also features advanced filtration to ensure a steady supply of fresh air. For those seeking even greater climate control, the available Remote Start and Remote Cabin Pre-Conditioning features allow you to prep the interior to your desired temperature before even entering the vehicle.

Cargo versatility is another strong point of the Hornet AWD, with a generous 27.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. For those moments when you need to haul larger items, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats can be easily folded flat, expanding the cargo area to a cavernous 53.7 cubic feet. Thoughtful touches, like the available hands-free power liftgate and the adjustable cargo floor, further enhance the Hornet’s practicality.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD comes equipped with the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience. At the heart of this system is a vibrant 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen display, which serves as the command center for all your multimedia needs.

The Uconnect 5 system boasts lightning-fast processing power and exceptional graphics, ensuring smooth operation and responsive touch inputs. Its user-friendly interface is designed to minimize distractions, allowing you to keep your focus on the road while still enjoying a wealth of features.

One of the standout features of the Uconnect 5 is its advanced voice recognition capabilities. With natural language processing, you can control various functions, such as navigation, audio, and climate control, using simple voice commands. This hands-free operation enhances safety and convenience, especially during long drives.

For audiophiles, the Hornet AWD offers an optional premium audio system from a renowned brand like Harman Kardon or Beats Audio. These systems deliver exceptional sound quality, with strategically placed speakers that create an immersive listening experience. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite tunes or indulging in a captivating podcast, the audio system will bring your entertainment to life.

Smartphone integration is seamless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Simply connect your device, and you’ll have access to your favorite apps, music, and contacts right on the Uconnect 5 touchscreen. Additionally, wireless charging and multiple USB ports ensure that your devices stay powered up and connected throughout your journey.

Over-the-Air (OTA) updates are another highlight of the Uconnect 5 system. Dodge can push software updates directly to your vehicle, ensuring that you always have access to the latest features, bug fixes, and performance enhancements without the need to visit a dealership.

Driver Assistance Technologies

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind on the road. These cutting-edge technologies leverage a combination of radar, cameras, and sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and provide valuable assistance to the driver.

At the forefront of these features is the Hornet’s Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go functionality. This system not only maintains a preset distance from the vehicle ahead but can also bring the Hornet to a complete stop and resume driving automatically, making it an invaluable asset in stop-and-go traffic situations.

Complementing the Adaptive Cruise Control is the Lane Keeping Assist system, which gently guides the vehicle back into its intended lane should it begin to drift unintentionally. This feature is particularly useful for long highway drives, helping to reduce driver fatigue and improve overall safety.

The Hornet AWD also boasts an Automatic Emergency Braking system that continuously monitors the road ahead for potential hazards. If an imminent collision is detected and the driver fails to respond, the system can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or potentially avoid the impact altogether, providing an extra layer of protection.

Additionally, the Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection system helps to eliminate blind spots by alerting the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes or approaching from the sides when reversing out of a parking spot. This feature is especially beneficial when navigating busy urban environments or crowded parking lots.

Rounding out the Hornet’s ADAS suite is the Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection system, which leverages advanced algorithms to identify and alert the driver to the presence of pedestrians or cyclists in the vehicle’s path, further enhancing safety and reducing the risk of collisions.

With these cutting-edge driver assistance technologies, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD not only offers a thrilling driving experience but also prioritizes the safety and well-being of its occupants and those around them.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD delivers a potent and engaging driving experience, blending punchy acceleration with composed handling and a choice of drive modes to suit your needs. Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the GT model produces an estimated 265 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, providing robust power delivery and spirited acceleration from a standstill or when overtaking on the highway.

The R/T plug-in hybrid variant takes performance to an even higher level, combining a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined output of around 285 horsepower and an impressive 383 lb-ft of torque. This setup delivers blistering acceleration, with the ability to reach 60 mph in under 6 seconds, making the Hornet R/T one of the quickest compact SUVs on the market.

Both powertrains are paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission and Dodge’s advanced all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and handling in all conditions. The AWD system can seamlessly distribute power between the front and rear axles, enhancing stability and grip on slippery surfaces or during spirited driving.

The Hornet’s suspension setup, featuring MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear design, provides a well-balanced combination of ride comfort and agile handling. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive feedback, allowing you to confidently navigate winding roads or tight city streets with ease.

For those seeking even sharper handling dynamics, the Hornet AWD offers selectable drive modes that adjust various vehicle parameters, such as steering weight, throttle response, and transmission shift points. Sport mode tightens up the suspension and sharpens the throttle response for a more engaging and exhilarating driving experience, while Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency.

Despite its compact size, the Hornet AWD boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it capable of hauling small trailers or recreational equipment with ease. Robust brakes, including available high-performance Brembo brakes on higher trims, provide confident stopping power and excellent pedal feel.

AWD Capabilities for Canadian Weather

The 2024 Dodge Hornet’s advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is designed to provide confidence and control in even the harshest Canadian weather conditions. Whether navigating through heavy snowfall, icy roads, or venturing onto light off-road trails, the Hornet AWD is engineered to tackle it all with ease.

At the heart of the Hornet’s AWD capabilities is an intelligent, fully automatic system that continuously monitors traction and distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed. When driving on slippery surfaces like snow or ice, the system can seamlessly shift up to 60% of the available torque to the rear wheels, enhancing grip and stability.

For those who frequently encounter deep snow or venture off the beaten path, the Hornet AWD offers a dedicated Snow/Sand/Mud drive mode. This mode optimizes the vehicle’s settings, including throttle response, transmission behavior, and traction control calibration, to provide maximum traction and control in challenging off-road conditions.

Additionally, the Hornet AWD comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety and stability features designed to enhance confidence in adverse weather. These include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Brake Assist, all working together to help maintain control and prevent skids or loss of traction.

Whether navigating through a Canadian winter wonderland or exploring the great outdoors, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD promises to be a capable and reliable companion, providing the traction, control, and confidence needed to conquer any terrain or weather condition.

Fuel Economy and Range

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2024 Dodge Hornet offers a compelling balance of performance and economy, particularly in its hybrid variants. The gas-powered GT model, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, is estimated to deliver around 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway for the AWD configuration. While these figures are respectable for a compact SUV with a potent turbocharged engine, the real efficiency stars are the plug-in hybrid R/T models.

The Hornet R/T e-AWD plug-in hybrid combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. In pure electric mode, the Hornet R/T is expected to deliver an all-electric range of around 30 miles, making it an excellent choice for daily commutes and city driving. When the gasoline engine kicks in, the R/T is projected to achieve an impressive combined fuel economy rating of around 40 mpg.

Charging the Hornet R/T’s battery pack is a straightforward process. Using a Level 2 (240V) charger, the battery can be replenished from empty to full in approximately 2.5 hours. For added convenience, owners can also utilize a standard 120V household outlet for charging, albeit at a slower rate of around 12 hours for a full charge.

It’s worth noting that fuel economy and range figures can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and individual driving styles. However, Dodge has made a concerted effort to optimize the Hornet’s efficiency, ensuring that both the gasoline and hybrid models deliver a compelling blend of performance and fuel savings, making them an attractive choice for eco-conscious Canadian drivers seeking a practical and efficient compact SUV without sacrificing driving excitement.

Professional Reviews and Test Drive Impressions

The all-new 2024 Dodge Hornet, especially the AWD models, has garnered significant attention from major automotive publications and journalists. As one of the first vehicles to hit the market under Dodge’s new electrified performance strategy, the Hornet AWD has been put through its paces by industry experts.

Car and Driver’s test drive of the Hornet R/T AWD hybrid praised the vehicle’s punchy acceleration and engaging driving dynamics. Their reviewer noted, “The Hornet’s hybrid powertrain delivers a surprising amount of thrust, making it genuinely fun to drive. The AWD system also provides impressive grip and stability, even when pushed hard.”

Edmunds highlighted the Hornet’s well-sorted chassis and sharp handling, stating, “The Hornet feels more agile and responsive than its compact SUV competitors, with precise steering and minimal body roll. The AWD system ensures excellent traction and confidence in all weather conditions.”

Autoblog’s review praised the Hornet’s interior quality and technology, commenting, “The cabin feels upscale and well-appointed, with quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The available driver assistance features are also impressive for this class of vehicle.”

Motor Trend’s test drive noted the Hornet’s impressive fuel efficiency, particularly with the hybrid powertrain. Their reviewer stated, “The Hornet R/T AWD’s hybrid system delivers impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance. We consistently saw real-world numbers in the mid-30s during our testing.”

Overall, professional reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the Hornet AWD’s blend of performance, practicality, and value. Journalists have lauded the vehicle’s driving dynamics, interior quality, and advanced technology features, making it a compelling option in the compact SUV segment.

Owner Reviews and Real-World Ownership

While professional reviews offer valuable insights, nothing compares to the real-world experiences of actual owners. Despite being a brand-new model, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD has already garnered a dedicated following, with early adopters sharing their impressions and experiences on various online forums and social media platforms.

One of the most common praises from Hornet AWD owners is the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy. Many have reported achieving better-than-advertised MPG figures, especially with the plug-in hybrid R/T model. “I’m averaging around 33 MPG in mixed driving, and that’s without even trying to be too efficient,” one owner shared on a Dodge enthusiast forum. “The electric range is also surprisingly good, allowing me to cover most of my daily commute on electric power alone.”

The AWD system has also received glowing reviews, with owners praising its capability in various weather conditions. “I live in Ottawa, and the Hornet AWD handled our brutal winter like a champ,” wrote another owner. “The AWD system is seamless and provides excellent traction, even on unplowed roads.” Many have lauded the Hornet’s balanced ride and handling, finding it engaging to drive while still being comfortable enough for daily use.

On the flip side, some owners have expressed disappointment with certain aspects of the Hornet AWD. A recurring complaint is the lack of storage space, with some finding the cargo area and interior cubbies to be too small for their needs. “The Hornet’s interior is well-designed, but the cargo space is quite limited, especially with the sloping roofline,” one owner noted. “It’s a trade-off for the sleek styling, but it might be a deal-breaker for some.”

Overall, early owner reviews of the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD have been overwhelmingly positive, with most praising its fuel efficiency, capable AWD system, and engaging driving dynamics. While no vehicle is perfect, the Hornet appears to be striking a compelling balance between performance, practicality, and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for Canadian drivers seeking an affordable and versatile compact SUV.

The Hornet AWD vs The Competition

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD enters a fiercely competitive compact SUV market, going up against established players like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue AWD. While these rivals offer well-rounded packages, the Hornet AWD brings a unique combination of performance, style, and electrification to the table.

In terms of power and acceleration, the Hornet AWD’s turbocharged engines and available plug-in hybrid powertrain give it a significant edge over most competitors. The R/T hybrid, with its potent 285 horsepower, can sprint from 0-60 mph in a sports car-like 6.1 seconds, outgunning the RAV4 Prime and CR-V Hybrid. Even the base GT model’s 265 horsepower turbo four outmuscles the non-hybrid offerings from Honda, Toyota, and Nissan.

The Hornet AWD’s driving dynamics also promise to be more engaging and athletic than the competition. With a lower center of gravity, tuned suspension, and available drive modes, the Hornet should deliver a more spirited and responsive driving experience compared to the softer, more comfort-oriented rivals.

When it comes to styling, the Hornet AWD’s bold, muscular design and aggressive front fascia give it a more youthful and energetic look compared to the relatively conservative designs of the CR-V, RAV4, and Rogue. The Hornet’s interior also brings a more premium and tech-focused vibe, with available features like a digital gauge cluster and head-up display.

However, the Hornet AWD may fall behind in areas like overall interior space and cargo capacity, where the larger CR-V and RAV4 could have an advantage. Additionally, the well-established reputations and proven reliability of Honda and Toyota could sway some buyers away from the new Hornet.

Ultimately, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD offers a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a compact SUV with a sportier driving experience, bold styling, and electrified powertrain options. While it may not match the practicality or reputation of some rivals, the Hornet’s unique blend of performance, design, and technology could make it a standout choice in the crowded compact SUV segment.

Where to Buy and Pricing in Canada

The all-new 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD will be available at Dodge dealerships across Canada starting in late 2023. Dodge has a robust network of over 400 dealerships nationwide, ensuring that prospective buyers can easily find a location to test drive and purchase the Hornet AWD.

According to the official Dodge Canada website, pricing for the 2024 Hornet AWD trims is as follows:

• Hornet GT AWD: Starting at $38,995 CAD
• Hornet R/T AWD: Starting at $53,995 CAD

It’s worth noting that these prices are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) and do not include additional fees such as freight and PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection), which typically add around $2,000 to the final price. Additionally, taxes and dealer-installed options will further increase the out-the-door cost.

However, Dodge often offers incentives and discounts, particularly on new model launches, to entice buyers. These can include cash rebates, low-interest financing rates, or special lease deals. It’s advisable to check with your local Dodge dealer or the Dodge Canada website for the latest offers and incentives available on the 2024 Hornet AWD.

Prospective buyers can also take advantage of Dodge’s online shopping tools, such as the build and price configurator, to customize their desired Hornet AWD trim and get an accurate estimate of the final cost, including any applicable incentives or discounts.

Cost of Ownership and Value Analysis

When considering the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD, it’s important to evaluate the overall cost of ownership and value proposition. While the initial purchase price is a significant factor, there are several other expenses to consider over the vehicle’s lifespan.

Fuel costs are a major ongoing expense, and the Hornet AWD’s fuel efficiency will play a crucial role. The non-hybrid GT model is expected to achieve an estimated combined fuel economy of 25 mpg, while the plug-in hybrid R/T model is projected to deliver around 35 mpg in hybrid mode and over 80 MPGe when running on electric power alone. Depending on your driving patterns and annual mileage, the potential fuel savings with the hybrid model could offset its higher initial cost over time.

Maintenance and repair costs are another significant factor in the overall cost of ownership. As a new model, it’s difficult to project long-term reliability and maintenance expenses for the Hornet AWD. However, Dodge’s reputation for solid build quality and the use of proven Stellantis components should bode well for reasonable maintenance costs in line with other compact SUVs.

Insurance premiums are also an important consideration. As a performance-oriented vehicle with advanced safety features, the Hornet AWD may have slightly higher insurance rates than some competitors. However, the exact rates will vary based on your location, driving history, and other factors.

When it comes to resale value, it’s too early to make accurate projections for the Hornet AWD. However, Dodge’s strong brand recognition and the vehicle’s unique positioning as a performance-oriented compact SUV could help it retain value better than some mainstream competitors.

Overall, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD presents a compelling value proposition for Canadian buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and capable compact SUV with a dash of performance and style. While the initial purchase price may be higher than some competitors, the potential long-term savings in fuel costs and strong resale value could offset the premium, especially for the hybrid R/T model.

Conclusion – Is the Hornet AWD Right for You?

The 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD is a compelling choice for Canadian drivers seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and efficiency in a compact SUV package. With its potent yet fuel-efficient powertrain options, capable all-wheel-drive system, and a well-appointed interior, the Hornet AWD checks many boxes for those seeking a daily driver with a sporty edge.

The Hornet AWD is an excellent choice for those who frequently encounter inclement weather conditions, thanks to its robust AWD system and available all-terrain tires. Its spacious interior and ample cargo space also make it a practical choice for small families or active individuals with a penchant for outdoor adventures.

While the Hornet AWD may not be the most exhilarating performance SUV on the market, it strikes a nice balance between spirited driving dynamics and everyday usability. The plug-in hybrid R/T model, in particular, offers a compelling combination of power and efficiency, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers who don’t want to sacrifice performance.

Ultimately, the 2024 Dodge Hornet AWD is a well-rounded and competitively priced offering in the compact SUV segment. If you’re in the market for a practical, efficient, and capable SUV with a dash of performance and style, the Hornet AWD is certainly worth a closer look.