How long have Dodge Hornets been around?
The Dodge Hornet has been on sale in its current form for about three years, since the 2023 model year was introduced (unveiled in 2022).
Beyond the current production model, the Hornet name carries a longer Dodge history, and the modern Hornet is a revival of that lineage. This article traces when the Hornet first appeared in Dodge’s lineup, how it arrived in showrooms, and what that means for its time in the market.
Origins of the Hornet name and the modern model
The Hornet name has lived on in Dodge lore for years. It first appeared as a concept car in 2006, offering a glimpse of a compact, sporty Dodge. The modern Dodge Hornet that customers can buy today is a revived use of that badge, reimagined as a compact crossover built on a platform shared with the Alfa Romeo Tonale. In this iteration, Dodge positioned the Hornet to compete in the subcompact SUV segment while delivering a Dodge-oriented blend of performance and practicality.
From concept to showroom: market introduction
The contemporary Hornet was officially revealed in 2022 as a 2023 model year vehicle. It marked Dodge’s entry into the growing subcompact SUV market and aligned with Stellantis’ strategy of sharing platforms and powertrains across brands. In the United States, the Hornet’s official sales began with the 2023 model year, expanding Dodge’s lineup to include a small, performance-focused crossover with multiple powertrain options, including a turbocharged engine and a plug-in hybrid variant.
Powertrains and trims
Across its early years, the Hornet offered a range of powertrain choices designed to balance performance and efficiency. The lineup included a turbocharged internal-combustion engine and, in some markets and model years, a plug-in hybrid setup that provided electric-only driving capability. Dodge packaged these options across trims to appeal to buyers seeking sportiness in a compact crossover, with emphasis on daily usability as well as on-road performance.
Notes on drivetrain options
Because the Hornet has evolved across model years, exact horsepower figures, torque outputs, and electric-range estimates vary by year and market. Prospective buyers should consult the latest dealer specifications for up-to-date details on current trims and powertrains.
Where it stands now
As of 2025, the Dodge Hornet remains in production and available in its contemporary model years, continuing Dodge’s push into the subcompact SUV segment and the broader strategy of electrified, performance-oriented crossovers within the Stellantis lineup. The Hornet’s ongoing presence reflects Dodge’s effort to offer a compact, sporty option in a crowded market while leveraging shared engineering with related brands.
Summary
The Dodge Hornet entered the market as a 2023 model year vehicle, with its reveal in 2022, placing its current production life at roughly three years. The name itself has roots dating back to a 2006 concept, but the production Hornet on dealer lots began in 2022–2023 and has continued through 2025 with updates and ongoing sales.
