4 Dodge Hornet Alternatives That Aren’t a Ford Mustang Mach-E
Dodge recently announced that the Hornet will be the brand’s upcoming performance SUV and will have an optional plug-in hybrid powertrain. However, for those looking for more options beyond its fully electric competitor, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, several other alternatives exist. Whether you are interested in a hybrid, PHEV, or EV, these alternatives offer unique features and capabilities that may be worth considering. We’ll take a closer look at four top alternatives to the Dodge Hornet, including their key features and what sets them apart from the competition.
1. Alfa Romeo Tonale
The Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a similar build to the Dodge Hornet but with its own unique styling. One of the major differences is that the Tonale comes standard with a plug-in hybrid system, whereas the Hornet’s PHEV option is optional. The Tonale has a base price of $49,900, making it slightly more expensive than the Hornet. Under the hood, it features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
According to CarExpert, it produces 118 kW (158 horsepower) and 240 Nm of torque. The Tonale also boasts impressive fuel economy, with a rating of 5.6 liters per 100km. Inside, it features carbon cloth/leatherette upholstery with beige stitching and a multicolor pattern on the seats. It also includes advanced safety features like traffic sign recognition and intelligent speed assist.
2. Jeep Wrangler/Wrangler 4xe
The Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe models may not be direct competitors to the Hornet, but they offer a unique driving experience that can’t be matched by any other SUV. According to Jeep, the base model comes at an affordable $31,195, while the 4xe model starts at $54,735. The Wrangler has a V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission, with four-wheel drive as standard. It seats up to five people and offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and a power output of 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
The fuel economy is not as efficient as some other competitors, with an EPA combined rating of 19 mpg. However, the Wrangler is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an off-road-capable SUV. Meanwhile, the 4xe model has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that offers up to 21 miles of electric-only range and up to 49 MPGe combined.
3. Mitsubishi Outlander/Outlander PHEV
The Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander PHEV are reliable and practical options available as gas or plug-in hybrid models. The base Outlander starts at a reasonable $27,895, while the PHEV model has a higher starting price of $39,845. Both models have a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission, but the PHEV has an all-wheel drive system and a more powerful 221 horsepower engine, compared to the gas model’s 181 hp.
Edmunds states that the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV also has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, while the gas model can tow up to 2,000 lbs. They both have spacious interiors with seating for up to seven passengers and a cargo capacity of 30.4 cubic feet behind the second row. While not as flashy as some competitors, the Outlander is a practical and reliable choice for those looking for a hybrid or gas SUV.
4. Toyota RAV4/RAV4 Prime
The Toyota RAV4 lineup offers buyers a versatile range of options, including gas-only, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models. The gas-only RAV4 has a respectable 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, along with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. It also has a spacious cargo capacity of 37.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 69.8 cubic feet with them stowed.
In contrast, the RAV4 Prime delivers a powerful punch with 302 horsepower and a maximum towing capacity of 2,500 lbs. The Prime model also has an AWD system and a cargo capacity of 33.5 cubic feet. The Toyota RAV4 has a starting price of $27,975, while the RAV4 Prime starts at $42,340. Whether it’s the gas-only or Prime model, the RAV4 offers a comfortable seating arrangement for up to five passengers.
