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While SUVs are appealing for their spaciousness, utility, and comfort, they are often slow and lumbering vehicles. They also tend to be more expensive compared to other vehicle segments. However, an exciting new SUV from Dodge is neither of those two things. It’s the affordable 2023 Dodge Hornet, which is both fast and cheap. It’s the fastest and most powerful SUV that costs under $30K. 

2023 Dodge Hornet delivers quick acceleration

Front view of affordable 2023 Dodge Hornet, fastest and most powerful SUV that costs under $30,000
2023 Dodge Hornet | Dodge

Dodge has built a reputation for offering powerful muscle cars. And now, it takes the same approach with its affordable new SUV, the 2023 Dodge Hornet, which has a starting price under $30,000.

Also, the Hornet has a unique twist — a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain for the R/T model. This is the first time the American automaker has produced an electrified performance vehicle.

While an electrified model might seem like sacrilege to the ICE-loving Dodge faithful, the results are undeniable. The plug-in hybrid system, which combines an electric motor with a turbo 1.3L four-cylinder engine, doles out 285 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This output enables the Hornet to accelerate from 0-60 mph in only 6.1 seconds. That’s very fast for an SUV. 

Furthermore, the PHEV provides an electric-only driving range of over 30 miles. This helps reduce gas consumption to minimize financial pain at the pump. 

For SUV drivers that don’t want an electrified model, there’s a fully gas-powered version of the Hornet with the GT trim. This is the cheapest trim in the lineup — and the fastest and most powerful SUV for under $30,000. The GT trim comes equipped with a turbo 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine, which doles out 265 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Its 0-60 mph time is 6.5 seconds. While not as quick as the plug-in hybrid, the Hornet GT is the fastest SUV you can get for such a low price. 

How much does the 2023 Hornet cost for each trim?

Rear angle view of black 2023 Dodge Hornet, fastest and most powerful SUV that costs under $30,000
2023 Dodge Hornet | Dodge

As mentioned, the cheapest trim in the 2023 Dodge Hornet lineup is the GT. It has a starting cost of $29,995 MSRP.

Here is the starting price for each 2023 Hornet trim:

  • GT: $29,995 MSRP
  • GT Plus: $34,995 MSRP
  • R/T (PHEV): $39,995 MSRP
  • R/T Plus (PHEV): $44,995 MSRP

While the plug-in hybrid models are more expensive, the GT trim is an affordable option. In times of high inflation, it’s remarkable to find an SUV that’s so cheap, fast, and powerful. 

Performance features add to the fun-to-drive nature of the Hornet

The exciting driving experience of the 2023 Hornet is not just about speed and power, though. The affordable SUV offers a multitude of performance features that add to its fun-to-drive nature. 

Notable performance features include dynamic torque vectoring, Koni shocks, and Brembo four-piston brake calipers. Also, for an even more engaging driving experience, there’s a Sport Mode. It provides more responsiveness for the throttle, quicker shifting, and more precise steering. Additionally, all models have an all-wheel drive system — for enhanced traction and cornering abilities.

The new 2023 Dodge Hornet is an affordable SUV for budget-minded drivers that desire high-level excitement on their journeys. With a starting price of $29,995 MSRP, the Hornet is the fastest and most powerful SUV that costs under $30K.

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Staff Writer, Producer - SUVs

Mark Putzer

With seven years of experience writing in the automotive industry prior to joining MotorBiscuit in 2021, Mark’s work can be found on dealership websites across North America. A Bachelor of Science degree in zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison sent Mark into the wilderness for environmental studies. Here, he discovered a passion for driving off-road trucks and SUVs off the beaten path.

During his extensive international travels, Mark developed an affinity for foreign cars and international automotive markets. Inspired by the industry-wide push toward environmentally-friendly EVs and hybrids, Mark covers topics about recent advances in the automotive industry, in addition to everything from off-road concepts to emerging EV technology.