Are Dodge Hornets fast?
Yes—Dodge’s Hornet offers brisk acceleration and confident highway performance for a compact crossover, thanks to a turbocharged engine lineup and available all‑wheel drive. It isn’t a sports car, but it is noticeably quick for its segment.
As Dodge’s new Hornet enters the market, speed is often evaluated against rivals in the compact SUV class. The question of fast depends on the trim, drivetrain, and how you define speed—quick 0–60 times, strong passing power, or high top speeds all come into play.
Performance snapshot
The following figures summarize the Hornet’s core performance traits and how they vary by trim and option. Numbers can shift with tires, drivetrain, and testing conditions.
Before listing the key specs, this paragraph explains what readers will see in the upcoming breakdown.
- Engine and output: The Hornet GT uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing about 270 horsepower and around 295 lb-ft of torque; higher trims like the R/T push power higher, roughly toward 300 hp.
- Drivetrain: The base GT is typically front‑wheel drive, with all‑wheel drive available or optional on other configurations; sport-minded trims emphasize AWD performance.
- Acceleration: 0–60 mph times for the GT configuration generally sit in the mid‑to‑high six seconds range with AWD, with faster times possible on the higher‑power variants depending on tires and setup.
- Top speed: GT models usually reach the low‑to‑mid 140 mph range, while the more powerful trims can push toward higher speeds given favorable gearing and aero.
Overall, the Hornet’s performance is competitive within its class, delivering quicker acceleration and stronger highway confidence than many non-performance compact SUVs. The combination of turbopower, light-to-moderate weight, and available AWD helps it feel punchy in daily driving and capable on longer open-road runs.
How it compares to rivals
In the crowded compact SUV segment, speed is influenced by power, weight, traction, and gearing. The Hornet’s turbocharged engine lineup and available AWD give it a credible edge in quick launches and confident passing power. Independent reviews often note that, while not a dedicated performance model, the Hornet provides more immediate acceleration than many of its non-performance peers and pairs that speed with practical utility, cargo space, and modern technology.
Handling and technology
Beyond raw numbers, steering feel, suspension tuning, brake performance, and drive-mode options shape how fast the Hornet feels on twisty roads. Dodge offers sport-oriented settings and traction-management features that help translate turbo output into usable speed without sacrificing daily comfort.
Summary
The Dodge Hornet stands out in its class by offering brisk acceleration, solid highway manners, and practical utility. While it isn’t a muscle car or track-focused performance machine, its turbocharged engine, available all‑wheel drive, and thoughtfully tuned chassis deliver credible speed for daily driving and confident highway overtakes. For buyers prioritizing a fast, versatile compact SUV, the Hornet represents a compelling option within Dodge’s current lineup.
How fast is the Dodge Hornet?
The Dodge Hornet's top speed is 140 mph for the GT and GT Plus models and 128 mph for the R/T and R/T Plus models. The GT models have a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, while the R/T models are quicker, reaching 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, partly due to the PowerShot feature that provides a 15-second boost.
This video reviews the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus, discussing its specs and test drive: 55sHawkeye RidesYouTube · Feb 9, 2024
| Model | Top Speed | 0-60 mph Time |
|---|---|---|
| GT and GT Plus | 140 mph | 6.5 seconds |
| R/T and R/T Plus | 128 mph | 5.6 seconds |
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Is the Dodge Hornet faster than the Hellcat?
So, Which One's Faster? It's no contest. The Hellcat dominates the Hornet in every performance metric: 0–60:Hellcat ~3.4 seconds | Hornet ~6.5 seconds.
Is the Hornet a fast car?
Dial up the adrenaline in the 2024 Dodge Hornet GT, the fastest and most powerful gas compact UV in its segment*. *Based on 2023 IIHS's Compact UV segment, latest available competitive information. Fastest based on top speed of 140 mph and 0-60 time of 6.5 seconds; Most Powerful Based on: 268 horsepower.
What is so special about the Dodge Hornet?
1. Impressive Performance and Reliability. The Dodge Hornet performance and reliability are key highlights that make this SUV a leader in its class. Featuring a dual mode suspension, the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T offers enhanced driving dynamics, improving both handling and comfort.
