2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: The More Practical Choice Is Clear
With Dodge’s commitment to electrified muscle, new vehicles are beginning to enter the brand’s lineup. The first is the Hornet, a powerful compact SUV eager to compete at the top of the class. But how does it stack up against the popular Toyota RAV4? Here’s everything you need to know in this 2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet comparison.
| 2024 Toyota RAV4 | 2024 Dodge Hornet | |
| Starting Price | $28,475 | $30,735 |
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower + Torque | 203 hp + 184 lb-ft of torque | 268 hp + 295 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | 8-speed automatic, FWD (AWD available) | 9-speed automatic + AWD |
| 0–60 Mph Acceleration + Top Speed | 8.0 seconds + 114 mph | 6.5 seconds + 140 mph |
| Fuel Efficiency | 27/35 mpg city/highway | 21/29 mpg city/highway |
| Cargo Capacity | 37.6 cubic feet behind rear row/69.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded | 27 cubic feet behind rear row/54.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded |
2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Driving and performance
When it comes to straight-line performance, Dodge can’t be beat. The Hornet is among the most potent small SUVs. The GT base model packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 268 hp and nearly 300 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent through a nine-speed transmission to all four wheels. This setup is good for a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.5 seconds and a class-leading top speed of 140 mph.
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is much more pedestrian regarding performance. Its standard model has a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4’s 0-to-60 time is a leisurely eight seconds, and its top speed is 114 mph.
The RAV4 simply can’t keep up with the performance-focused Hornet. Still, the Toyota SUV boasts a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride.
2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Interior
The 2024 Dodge Hornet and 2024 Toyota RAV4 are neck and neck regarding their interiors. However, the Hornet has a hidden advantage because it shares many parts with the mechanically similar Alfa Romeo Tonale, including the same platform. So, the Hornet’s cabin feels similar to the Tonale’s interior. For example, they share the same steering wheel, optional faux-suede interior, and available red leather trim.
On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4’s interior has a more rugged, utilitarian look without going too far. It uses solid materials and doesn’t try to impress with exaggerated trim materials. Yes, the cabin is mostly plastic, but the surfaces are soft to the touch. Furthermore, one of the RAV4’s most significant advantages is storage space. It boasts over 15 cubic feet more maximum cargo volume than its Dodge rival.
2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2024 Dodge Hornet: Trim levels
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 offers six trim levels, listed in order of lowest to highest base MSRP:
- LE, $28,475
- XLE, $29,985
- XLE Premium, $32,875
- Adventure, $34,670
- Limited, $36,760
- TRD Off-Road, $38,095
They vary in price from $28,475 for the LE base model to $36,780 for the luxurious Limited and $38,095 for the trail-ready TRD Off-Road.
Meanwhile, the 2024 Dodge Hornet has four trim levels:
- GT, $30,735
- GT Plus, $35,735
- R/T, $40,935
- R/T Plus, $45,935
The R/T and R/T Plus are plug-in hybrid variants like the RAV4 Prime, which Toyota considers a separate model. So, we’ll leave the PHEVs out of this comparison. However, it’s worth noting the R/T’s 1.3-liter turbo-four setup harnesses 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque and can launch the PHEV to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, Dodge claims.
Which compact SUV is the better fit for you?
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is a better all-around vehicle than the 2024 Dodge Hornet. Does the Hornet offer exciting new features and impressive performance numbers for its class? Absolutely. But Toyota’s compact SUV is one of the world’s best-selling vehicles for a reason. It’s reliable, affordable, and long-lasting.
Sure, the RAV4 hasn’t seen a redesign since 2019. Still, it offers excellent build quality, cargo space, fuel economy, and trim levels to ensure shoppers find the ideal model for their needs and desires. When it comes to pitting the 2024 Toyota RAV4 and 2024 Dodge Hornet against each other, the practical choice is the clear winner.
