Compact utility vehicles represent a popular segment of the American auto market thanks to their versatility and efficiency. The 2025 Dodge Hornet has quickly become a favorite CUV among the most discerning drivers, offering performance-driven power, tremendous versatility, and bold features that set it apart from its competitors.
Is the 2025 Dodge Hornet the Most Exciting Compact SUV of the Year?
Compact SUVs continue to dominate the American auto market for their versatility, performance, and everyday practicality. The 2025 Dodge Hornet stands out by blending muscle-car power with SUV functionality making it a top contender for anyone searching best small SUV with AWD or compact hybrid SUV with performance features.
Two Potent Powertrains for Class-Leading Power
What Makes the 2025 Dodge Hornet’s Engines Stand Out?
If you’re wondering which small SUV has the most horsepower, the Dodge Hornet easily tops the list.
With a muscle car pedigree in a compact utility vehicle frame, the new Hornet is built to perform with two powertrain options that set it apart from the pack. The base trim GT has a 2.0-liter intercooled turbo inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 268 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. It’s mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission and comes with a standard AWD drivetrain. It has an estimated fuel efficiency of 21 in the city and 29 on the highway.
The R/T trims have hybrid powertrains for maximum efficiency without sacrificing performance. The powertrain includes a 1.3-liter intercooled turbo inline 4-cylinder that is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that generates up to 288 horsepower and 383 foot-pounds of torque with an estimated combined fuel efficiency rating of 77 MPGe.
High-Performance Handling and Agility
There’s little doubt the Hornet is built for performance, and it incorporates many features that help it deliver its power to the pavement efficiently. With front and rear frequency-damping strut suspension and electric power-assisted steering activation, the Hornet can handle curves with ease. Its AWD powertrain keeps the Hornet in constant contact with the driving surface, and its near-perfect weight distribution and dynamic torque vectoring enhance the ride.
Other performance enhancements that are available on the Hornet include Brembo brakes, optional dual-stage valve suspension, the PowerShot feature that adds up to 30 horsepower for up to 15 seconds, and a Sport Mode that elevates the throttle while optimizing steering and engaging the electronic limited-slip differential.
Comfortable Cabin Loaded With Modern Tech Features
Though the Hornet’s engineering leans heavily into its performance characteristics, it’s still a utility vehicle with a comfortable, versatile interior cabin. It can seat up to five adults across two rows of seating with a dedicated cargo volume of 27 cubic feet. However, that capacity expands to 50.5 with the rear seat folded down.
The technology in the cabin helps drivers stay safe and connected on the road and track. It includes safety and connectivity features like the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, a 10.25-inch color touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, the ParkView rear backup camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, the LaneSense system, and adaptive cruise control.
It’s easy to see why the Dodge Hornet is considered one of the leaders in its class, with peak-performance features, powerful and efficient engines, and a wide range of technological amenities. Contact Otto Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Greenwich in Greenwich, NY, to see the Hornet for yourself and take one for a test drive today.
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