2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus: A Spirited Bee with a Hint of Biscione

Dodge injects a dose of Italian flair into the compact SUV segment with the 2024 Hornet GT Plus. This all-new offering boasts a sporty design, a peppy turbocharged engine, and a surprising amount of Italian heritage under the hood. But is the Hornet GT Plus all muscle and no substance, or a genuine contender in the crowded world of small SUVs? We spent a week behind the wheel to find out.

Italian Stallion with American Muscle

The Hornet GT Plus undeniably turns heads. Borrowing design cues from its Alfa Romeo Tonale cousin, the Hornet features a bold front fascia with a prominent Dodge grille flanked by sleek LED headlights. The profile is sporty and muscular, with sharp creases and a sloping roofline hinting at the Hornet's performance aspirations. Dodge throws in some American muscle car DNA with a vented hood and available 20-inch wheels, successfully blending Italian sophistication with American brawn.

The interior continues the theme of sporty elegance. Stepping inside, you're greeted by a driver-centric cockpit featuring a leather-wrapped steering wheel (courtesy of Alfa Romeo) and a digital instrument cluster. Dodge's signature Uconnect infotainment system takes center stage on the dashboard, offering a user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. While some materials feel a touch plasticky, overall, the cabin delivers a comfortable and stylish environment.

Borrowed Power, Unleashed Performance

The Hornet GT Plus ditches the usual Dodge V8 rumble for a more modern approach. Under the hood sits a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, churning out a healthy 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine, shared with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, delivers a surprising amount of punch. Mated to a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Hornet GT Plus rockets from 0-60 mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds, according to our tests.  This is quicker than some pricier competitors.

However, the Hornet GT Plus prioritizes performance over fuel efficiency. During our week of mixed driving, we averaged a respectable 24 mpg combined. This falls slightly short of some rivals, but those seeking outright power won't be disappointed. Dodge offers a more fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid option (the Hornet R/T) for those prioritizing economy.

Sporty handling complements the zippy engine. The Hornet GT Plus corners confidently, with minimal body roll despite its higher center of gravity compared to a sedan. Steering feedback is decent, providing a sense of connection to the road. While not as sharp as a dedicated sports car, the Hornet GT Plus delivers a fun and engaging driving experience that lives up to the Dodge badge.

A Sting in the Cargo Hold

One area where the Hornet GT Plus disappoints is cargo space. With just 22.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, the Hornet offers less cargo capacity than many competitors. This might be a dealbreaker for those who prioritize ample space for luggage or gear.

Rear passenger space is also a bit cramped, especially for taller adults. While the front seats offer ample headroom and legroom, the sloping roofline cuts into headroom in the back. This might be a concern for families with young children or those who regularly transport passengers in the back seat.

Technology and Safety

The Hornet GT Plus comes loaded with standard tech features. Uconnect 5 infotainment system offers a user-friendly interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A six-speaker sound system delivers decent audio quality, while higher trim levels offer premium options.

The Hornet GT Plus boasts a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control is also available on higher trims.

The Verdict: A Hornet with a Bite

The 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus is a compelling option for those seeking a sporty and stylish compact SUV. It offers a thrilling driving experience with its peppy engine and sharp handling, all wrapped in a head-turning Italian-inspired design. However, its cramped cargo space and tight rear seats might be a dealbreaker for some.

Ultimately, the Hornet GT Plus caters to a specific audience – drivers who prioritize performance and style over practicality.  If you're looking for a fun-to-drive SUV with a touch of European flair, the Hornet GT Plus delivers.  However, if you need a spacious and family-friendly option, you might want to consider competitors with more cargo and rear passenger space.

Strengths and Weaknesses at a Glance

Strengths:

• Powerhouse Performance: The 2.0L turbocharged engine delivers a thrilling driving experience with impressive acceleration.
• Sharp Handling: Responsive steering and minimal body roll make the Hornet GT Plus enjoyable to maneuver.
• Head-Turning Design: The blend of Italian design cues and American muscle car elements creates a visually striking SUV.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides added confidence and capability in various weather conditions.
• Comprehensive Tech Suite: User-friendly Uconnect infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Safety Focus: A suite of advanced driver-assistance features comes standard, enhancing safety on the road.

Weaknesses:

• Limited Cargo Space: Compared to competitors, the Hornet GT Plus offers less cargo capacity, which might be a concern for some.
• Cramped Rear Seat: The sloping roofline cuts into headroom, making the rear seat less suitable for taller adults or families.
• Fuel Efficiency: While respectable, the Hornet GT Plus falls short of some rivals in terms of fuel economy.
• Borrowed Engine: While the Alfa Romeo-sourced engine performs well, it might lack the traditional Dodge "muscle" feel for some enthusiasts.

Who Should Consider the 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus?

This SUV caters to drivers seeking a sporty and stylish compact SUV that prioritizes performance over practicality.

• Young Professionals: Those looking for a fun and exciting daily driver with a touch of European flair.
• Couples: Drivers who prioritize performance and a comfortable front seat experience over spacious rear accommodation.
• Driving Enthusiasts: Drivers seeking a more agile and engaging driving experience compared to some competitors.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

• Families: Those who require ample cargo space for luggage or gear and spacious rear seats for passengers.
• Off-Road Enthusiasts: While all-wheel drive provides added capability, the Hornet GT Plus isn't designed for serious off-road adventures.
• Fuel-Economy Seekers: There are competitors in the segment that offer better fuel efficiency.

Final Thoughts

The 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus is a bold entry into the compact SUV arena. It injects a dose of Italian style and thrilling performance into the segment, offering a compelling alternative for drivers seeking a fun and stylish everyday companion. While its cargo space and rear seat limitations might deter some, the Hornet GT Plus remains a strong contender for those prioritizing performance and a unique driving experience.  If you value a sporty and exciting drive with a touch of European refinement, the Hornet GT Plus is definitely worth a test drive.