Because the gas-powered Dodge Charger and Challenger are out to pasture, the Dodge Hornet has big shoes to fill. However, it’s lacking one thing that would really help it stand out in the segment, which is a muscular personality. 

The 2024 Dodge Hornet doesn’t feel unique

First of all, I’m not saying the Dodge Hornet is a bad SUV. When I was 16, my Dad’s midlife crisis vehicle was a 2008 Dodge Charger V8 HEMI and that meant the family couldn’t afford a vehicle for me to get to school and work. 

So, I drove it like a teenager. It was fast and fun but there were things I didn’t like about it. It was too wide, had horrible blind spots, and was hard to park. But it was fun and the engine sounded great. It certainly stood out in the pack as a popular four-door sports car. 

It’s like Stellantis took the Dodge Charger as a starting point and carved a sleeker, more aerodynamic, and smaller sports car known as the new Dodge Hornet out of clay.

It is fast, engaging, and fun. It’s a bit simple, but that’s fine. It’s perfect for the people who want to set tech aside to focus on the road.

However, it’s also a day late and a dollar short to the segment due to a lack of personality. That may sound harsher than I intend for it too. So, don’t get mad, just hang with me here.

But when I first sat in the Hornet, it seemed like I already reviewed it because it felt like a rebadged Alfa Romeo Tonale. In my humble opinion, the Tonale has more style with better curves and a more detailed interior. It feels masculine and Italian with a unique personality.

The 2024 Hornet starts at $31,400, and the 2024 Tonale rings in at $43,845. So, you could call the Hornet a light version of the Tonale. The interiors are pretty similar only the Hornet has fewer luxury touches.

If you don’t think the 2024 Dodge Hornet is basic, then go for it. I did enjoy the GT trim that I had for a week with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. 

It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds The more fuel-efficient PHEV variant gets there in 5.6 seconds. It certainly has enough power and smooth transmission shifts to put a smile on your face. 

The 2024 Dodge Hornet is excellent for cornering and has plenty of grip around tight bends with confident brakes. The adaptive dual-mode suspension provides a smooth ride and adds to the athletic performance.

For some reason, paddle shifters are missing, but I typically don’t pay much attention to steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters unless I want to drive with more precision. 

If you don’t feel like racing around town, you don’t have to use the Sport Mode which tightens up response times for more engagement. Plus, the 18.93-foot turning radius is extremely convenient. 

My model didn’t have a full-size spare, but it did have a tire patch kit. I used the portable air inflator to put air in another car’s tire. It was fun to use. To be honest, now I’m sad that the Hornet and the portable air compressor are gone.

But I do have a few potential drawbacks for you to consider. The tech is a little basic, but that could be a positive for those looking for a simple setup. The 10.25-inch touchscreen somehow seems dwarfed in the dash. 

It isn’t distracting and could be beneficial to those who want to clear their mind and focus on driving. However, the backup camera needs improving. It has a slow refresh rate and lags behind real-time events. 

If another car passes you when you’re backing out, it lingers on the screen despite already being further down the parking lot or road in real life. 

The interior is a bit louder than expected at highway speeds, but the engine is quiet. In Sport Mode, the engine provides delightful and daring growls. 

Also, the Hornet is lacking in passenger and storage space, especially in the back row. Taller folks may need more room. 

Last but not least, while the elegant nature and performance of the 2024 Dodge Hornet are attractive aspects, it’s quite the departure from the Dodge brand which is formally known for its muscular performance. 

I have mixed feelings about the Hornet. It’s fun to drive and could be an engaging daily driver. However, it needs tech improvements and stand out features.