What’s the Buzz Around the Dodge Hornet?

Dodge has long been known for producing some of the industry’s most captivating muscle cars, with models like the Charger and Challenger etching their names in the history books. It’s now looking to bring the same performance-minded approach to the subcompact crossover market. Released in 2023, the Dodge Hornet is a welcome addition to the segment, providing a dynamic ride without sacrificing the qualities that have seen drivers flock to crossover models in record numbers.

The Hornet represents Dodge’s most compact model, and is nearly identical to the Alfa Romeo Tonale on which it’s based. Collaborating with the Italian brand allows Dodge to leverage the luxury automaker’s considerable experience in the segment and give the Hornet some Made in Italy appeal that’s sure to up its value in the eyes of car buffs. There were already plenty of reasons to visit us here at your local Dodge dealer near Peoria when shopping for a new vehicle, but the 2025 Dodge Hornet provides the most convincing case to date. Let’s see what the subcompact crossover has to offer as we take a closer look at the Hornet.  

Feel the Sting 

Crossover SUVs are prized for their utility and efficiency. However, while these attributes are certainly both present in the Hornet, Dodge has also amped up the fun factor by placing an increased emphasis on performance. Designed with all-wheel drive as a standard feature and powered by a potent turbocharged engine, the Hornet’s powertrain is the perfect complement to its compact design.

This powertrain is built around a 2.0L four-cylinder paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission to deliver an engaging ride, allowing owners to access 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Those are remarkable numbers for a subcompact SUV and let the 2025 Hornet post an impressive zero-to-60-mph time of 5.5 seconds.

The Hornet’s all-wheel drive approach pays dividends when you’re cruising through curves or getting the SUV up to speed on I-74, and really ups the model’s appeal at a time when four-wheel power is often treated as an optional upgrade. The nine-speed automatic transmission with segment-exclusive column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters offers crisp shifts, further enhancing the Hornet’s competitive resume.

The 2025 Hornet’s turbocharger makes the SUV a standout when it comes to getting the most out of every gallon of gas. The EPA estimates that it can deliver 29 MPG on the highway while still putting an emphasis on performance. An overall rating of 24 MPG combined means that drivers can travel up to 324 miles on a single tank of gas. That’s a pretty solid figure in today’s market, especially when you consider the Hornet’s performance potential and standard all-wheel drive.

Achieving nearly 30 MPG on the highway while sprinting to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds is a rare combination in today’s market, making the 2025 Hornet an obvious choice for Peoria drivers who value both efficiency and speed.  

A Swarm of Advanced Tech

Dodge has packed the 2025 Hornet with some of its most advanced interior tech, from its acclaimed Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity to a premium sound system and a generous set of displays. A 10.25-inch touchscreen comes standard on every trim, along with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that can be easily customized to display whatever information you find to be the most relevant.

In addition to the two industry-leading smartphone connectivity systems, the Hornet features a built-in Amazon Alexa digital assistant. Alexa provides hands-free control of some of the SUV’s most vital features, giving drivers the opportunity to start the engine, adjust climate settings, and access turn-by-turn navigation without their hands ever leaving the wheel. A standard six-speaker audio system provides an immersive listening experience throughout the cabin, but an optional 14-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is the way to go if you’re really seeking that high-fidelity sound.

The Hornet’s base GT trim is packed with a suite of premium features like dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The GT Plus sweetens the pot with a remote start system, wireless charging pad, and auto-dimming rear mirror. The top trim also features a long list of luxury features, ranging from leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats to a heated steering wheel and a sunroof. Throw in the 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and it’s easy to make a case for upgrading to the GT Plus. 

A Well-Appointed Nest 

The hornet might be a notoriously dangerous member of the wasp family, but the same doesn’t hold true for Dodge’s subcompact crossover. The automaker has outfitted the SUV with a full arsenal of advanced safety tech, ranging from Rear Parking Sensors and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection to Auto High-Beam Headlamp Control and Lane Keep Assist as part of the standard package. These features will help to provide a newfound sense of confidence behind the wheel, but it’s the optional Tech Pack that really ups the ante as far as safety is concerned.

The bundle adds ParkSense front, rear, and side Park Assist, plus a Surround-View Camera System that offers a unique, bird’s-eye view of the area immediately surrounding the vehicle. While this latter feature is sure to come in handy when trying to nestle the Hornet into a tight spot before a Peoria Chiefs game, it’s not the only parking-related tech drivers will enjoy when they choose the 2025 Hornet. The Tech Pack also includes Parallel and Perpendicular Park-Assist, which can handle one of the most dreaded driving tasks with ease, automatically nestling the SUV away with little to no guidance from the driver.

Those looking to enhance the Hornet’s performance potential and aesthetic appeal can add the optional Track Pack to the mix. This isn’t your average appearance package, though it does include some stylish upgrades like 20-inch black-painted wheels, red-painted brake calipers, and Alcantara upholstery. A sport-style steering wheel with paddle shifters helps improve the driver-car connection while lending the interior an aesthetic look, but it’s the Dual Mode Suspension that really seals the deal. The adjustable dampers go a long way towards improving the car’s stability when carving through curves, and also help to improve comfort by smoothing out some of the bumps in the road.       

Learn More at Roanoke Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

While we’ve touched on some of the key highlights of the 2025 Dodge Hornet, there’s plenty more to discover when you stop by Roanoke Motors Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Peoria drivers have come to trust us as the area’s go-to source for all things automotive, and our inventory of the Hornet provides an enticing reason to stop by our dealership and learn what all the buzz is about.

The crossover’s performance, efficiency, and tech-forward design might grab all the headlines, but the Hornet also ensures a comfortable on-road experience thanks to a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and more. It’s a well-rounded package, and one that’s sure to make the Dodge Hornet an alluring alternative to your run-of-the-mill SUV for years to come. If you’re ready to take a test drive, discover more about the differences between the two available Hornet trims, or explore any of our quality new and pre-owned vehicles, we’re always here to help. 

Posted in Dodge Dealer Near Peoria | No Comments »