Can a Dodge Hornet pull a boat?
The Dodge Hornet can tow a small boat, but you should stay within its official limits and plan for weight, safety, and local rules. In practice, this typically means a lightweight trailer and boat totaling around 2,000 pounds or less, with careful loading and setup.
As a compact crossover, the Hornet is positioned as a versatile daily driver that can handle occasional towing tasks. This article explains the official towing rating, what that means for common boats, and how to tow safely and effectively without overloading the vehicle or compromising handling on the road.
Official towing specs and practical limits
Before listing the numbers and guidance, note that towing capacity is a ceiling set by the automaker and can depend on options, drivetrain, and configuration. The Hornet’s maximum towing rating is around 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Max tow rating: up to about 2,000 pounds for a loaded trailer with a boat—this is the ceiling you should not exceed.
- Payload considerations: the vehicle’s payload (passengers, cargo, and any hitch equipment) reduces what you can tow safely. Always check the exact window sticker for your build.
- Hitch and wiring: towing requires a compatible hitch class (typically II or III) and a trailer wiring harness to power lights and brakes.
- Trailer brakes: depending on trailer weight and local regulations, electric brakes may be required or prudent for stability on longer trips.
- Tongue weight guidelines: general towing practice calls for roughly 10–15% of the trailer’s weight as tongue weight to keep steering responsive and maintain balance.
Bottom line: the Hornet can handle small, light boats, but you must ensure the boat-and-trailer combination stays within the 2,000-pound limit and is outfitted with proper hitching and braking equipment. Exceeding the rating can affect braking, acceleration, and overall control.
Choosing the right boat and trailer for a Hornet
If you’re eyeing weekend outings, aim for boats and trailers that fit well under the Hornet’s towing cap. The following examples illustrate typical fits for light-duty towing, though always verify actual weights for your specific boat and trailer combination.
- Small aluminum fishing boats with trailers in the 12–16 foot range and light trailer loads.
- Small fiberglass runabouts with modest ballast and a trailer that keeps total weight near or below the 2,000-pound rating.
- Inflatable boats on lightweight trailers, which can stay within the limit more easily than larger fiberglass vessels.
When in doubt, weigh the loaded trailer and boat, then compare to the Hornet’s official rating. If the combined weight approaches 2,000 pounds, proceed with extra caution and consider a larger tow vehicle for longer trips and additional gear.
Practical towing guidelines for boating with the Hornet
These practices help ensure safer towing of a boat with a Hornet and reduce the risk of overloading or instability on the road.
- Verify the total weight: ensure the boat plus trailer does not exceed roughly 2,000 pounds, including gear, fuel, and equipment.
- Use proper hitching: install the correct class II/III hitch, wiring, and ball size, and confirm electrical connections work before heading out.
- Check tongue weight and weight distribution: ensure the trailer is loaded so that tongue weight is balanced and within recommended ranges.
- Consider trailer brakes: for longer trips or heavier setups, electric brakes on the trailer improve stopping power and stability.
- Plan routes with low steep grades: climbing hills or pulling away from a stop with a heavy load stresses the drivetrain; allow extra time and space.
- Drive conservatively: gradual acceleration, steady speeds, and wider stopping distances help maintain control when towing.
Importantly, always consult your Hornet’s owner’s manual and the dealer for the exact towing specifications for your configuration, and follow local towing laws and trailer requirements wherever you travel.
Summary
The Dodge Hornet can tow a small boat, typically up to about 2,000 pounds with the proper equipment. Real-world suitability depends on the boat’s weight, the trailer, and how you load the system. Stick to the official rating, use the right hitch and brakes, and load the trailer within safe tongue-weight parameters. For heavier boats or longer trips, consider a larger tow vehicle to avoid pushing the limits of the Hornet.
How do I know if my car can tow a boat?
This is actually really easy and simple: Just check your vehicle's ownership manual. It should specify towing capacity. (If it does not, your vehicle may not be able certified for towing any capacity at all.) Sample page from an owner's manual, showing maximum towing capacity.
Can you tow with a Dodge Hornet?
If you're taking your thrills to the open road, the 2024 Dodge Hornet offers splendid towing capabilities for your adventures. Whether you want to bring a small boat to the campsite or need to tow a small trailer, both engine options offer a 2,000-pound maximum towing capacity.
How much towing power do I need for a boat?
Most 20-ft boats weigh between 3,000-5,000 lbs. with trailer and gear, so you'll want at least 5,000 lbs. towing capacity for safe handling.
Can you put a hitch on a Dodge Hornet?
Available. Now all of those accessories are going to stay in place with a 5/8 pin and clip that's not going to be included with the hitch. But a lot of times your accessories.
