Is a Dodge Hornet faster than a Hellcat?
The quick answer: No. Across the common configurations in today’s market, the Hellcat delivers far faster straight-line acceleration and higher top speed than the Hornet. The Hornet is a sporty compact SUV with strong turbocharged performance, but it cannot match the raw power of Dodge’s supercharged V8 muscle cars.
Context: what each car is and how they differ
The Dodge Hornet is a modern compact crossover introduced to offer practical space with sportier handling, typically powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with around 270 horsepower and optional all‑wheel drive. The Dodge Challenger/Charger lineup known as the Hellcat uses a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, delivering from roughly 717 horsepower in the baseline Hellcat to higher outputs in Redeye and Jailbreak variants. In everyday terms, the Hornet prioritizes practicality and efficiency with spirited performance, while the Hellcat emphasizes quarter‑mile capability and track-ready speed.
Performance benchmarks by model
Dodge Hornet performance snapshot
Before listing numbers, it’s worth noting that performance depends on trim, drivetrain, tires, and whether launch features are engaged. The figures below reflect typical configurations in the U.S. market for the Hornet lineup as of 2023–2024.
Here is a snapshot of typical performance figures for current Hornet variants:
- Hornet GT (2.0L turbo I-4, often with FWD or available AWD): 0–60 mph in roughly 6.5–7.5 seconds; top speed around 130–150 mph depending on configuration.
- Notes on other trims: performance can vary with options and tuning, but even the sportiest Hornet variants remain well below the acceleration and top-speed figures of Hellcat models.
Concluding note: Even the quicker Hornet variants lag the Hellcat in straight-line speed, and their higher‑speed envelope generally sits well below the 200 mph range typical of Hellcat models.
Dodge Challenger/Charger Hellcat performance snapshot
Before listing the numbers, please keep in mind that Hellcat performance varies by model year, drivetrain, and specific package (such as Drag Mode or Performance tires). The following figures reflect common ranges for the core Hellcat family in recent years.
Typical performance figures for Hellcat variants include:
- Challenger/Charger Hellcat (717 hp): 0–60 mph around 3.3–3.5 seconds; top speed about 199 mph.
- Challenger/Charger Hellcat Redeye (797 hp): 0–60 around 3.3–3.4 seconds; top speed about 199–203 mph.
- Challenger/Charger Hellcat Jailbreak (807 hp): 0–60 around 3.0–3.3 seconds; top speed around 203 mph.
Bottom line: Hellcat variants routinely deliver sub‑4-second 0–60 times and top speeds approaching or exceeding 199 mph, placing them well above the Hornet in straight‑line performance.
Bottom line and context
For straight-line speed, the Hellcat wins across its lineup. The Hornet’s strengths lie in practicality, everyday usability, and a spirited driving personality for a compact crossover. If speed in a straight line is your primary criterion, the Hellcat is the clear choice; if you want a more versatile daily driver with engaging performance, the Hornet offers a compelling alternative.
Summary
In direct comparison, the Dodge Hellcat outperforms the Hornet in acceleration and top speed across its variants. The Hornet delivers robust turbocharged performance in a practical SUV package, but it cannot match the quarter‑mile power and top speeds of the Hellcat’s supercharged V8 lineup. The choice comes down to whether you prioritize raw speed or a more versatile daily driver with dynamic feel.
What Dodge is faster than the Hellcat?
The Demon 170. With the most power in the Dodge Challenger Demon vs. Hellcat battle, the Demon 170 is, quite obviously, the fastest model here.
What does a Dodge Hornet compare to?
The Dodge Hornet's main competitors are compact SUVs like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai Tucson. Other rivals include the Toyota RAV4, Kia Seltos, and Chevrolet Equinox. For buyers also considering performance-oriented or hybrid models, other competitors are the Alfa Romeo Tonale (also based on the Hornet's architecture) and the Kia Niro (for plug-in hybrid options).
This video compares the Dodge Hornet to the Mazda CX-5: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · Mar 14, 2023
Primary competitors
- Mazda CX-5: Often compared for its sporty driving dynamics.
- Honda CR-V: A major competitor in the compact SUV market.
- Nissan Rogue: Another key rival, especially in terms of fuel economy.
- Hyundai Tucson: A strong competitor with a competitive starting price.
- Toyota RAV4: Competes with the Hornet in both gasoline and plug-in hybrid versions.
- Kia Seltos: A competitor that offers a similar size and price point.
This video compares the Dodge Hornet R/T with the Kia Sportage PHEV: 1mRaiti's RidesYouTube · Apr 12, 2024
Other competitors to consider
- Chevrolet Equinox: A direct competitor with a lower starting price.
- Ford Escape ST-Line: A competitor that starts at a lower price point.
- Alfa Romeo Tonale: Shares its platform with the Hornet.
- Kia Niro: Competes with the Hornet's plug-in hybrid option.
- Jeep Compass: Shares the same architecture and engines as the Hornet GT but has a lower starting price.
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.
Is the Dodge Hornet the fastest SUV?
THE MOST POWERFUL CUV OUT THERE 1
Not only is the Dodge Hornet the most powerful CUV in its segment, but each of its powertrains boast their own accolades—the R/T is the quickest 2, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds, while the GT is the fastest 3 with an estimated top speed of 140 mph.
