What engine does the Dodge Hornet use?
The Dodge Hornet is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, delivering roughly 270 horsepower and about 295 lb-ft of torque. This core powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
In more detail, the Hornet was introduced as a compact crossover built on the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform, blending Dodge’s performance heritage with European-inspired efficiency and handling. This article outlines the engine’s key specifications, how it fits into the Hornet lineup, and what prospective buyers should know about performance and configuration.
Engine specs and performance
Below is a snapshot of the principal engine characteristics and what they translate to in everyday driving and sportier use.
- Engine type: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Power output: around 270 horsepower
- Torque: approximately 295 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Standard all-wheel drive
- Platform: Shares architecture with the Alfa Romeo Tonale
With this configuration, the Hornet aims to balance brisk acceleration with everyday usability, offering the performance edge Dodge buyers expect in a compact crossover without a heavy fuel- economy penalty.
Variants and options
As Dodge rolled out the Hornet, the lineup centered on the 2.0-liter turbo powerplant with all-wheel drive available across trims. While talk of additional powertrains and plug-in hybrid options has circulated, the current US lineup centers on this turbocharged four-cylinder as the core engine. If and when broader drivetrain choices arrive, Dodge would typically detail them through official channels and model-year announcements.
Why the engine matters for performance
The 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 underpins the Hornet’s quick takeoffs and confident highway merges, while the turbocharger helps maintain strong mid-range torque for passing and overtaking. The pairing with an 8-speed automatic and standard AWD aims to deliver predictable power delivery and stable handling in a range of weather and road conditions.
Context within the market
The Hornet represents Dodge’s foray into the compact crossover segment, harnessing technology and engineering from its Tonale-derived platform. This approach allows Dodge to offer a performance-oriented package in a smaller, more fuel- efficient footprint than traditional midsize muscle cars, appealing to buyers who want everyday practicality with a sporty edge.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Hornet uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine delivering about 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive as standard. This setup positions the Hornet as a performance-focused compact crossover that blends Dodge’s driving character with Alfa Romeo–style engineering.
Closing note
As with all model iterations, specifications can vary by market and trim. For the most current figures and any new powertrain options, consult Dodge’s official specifications for the current model year.
What kind of engine is in the Dodge Hornet?
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
All nonhybrid Hornets are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 268 horsepower and comes paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. During our initial test drive, we found the Hornet to be fairly perky, especially around town.
Is a Dodge Hornet faster than a 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 Dodge Hornet an Alfa Romeo?
The Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV marketed by Dodge exclusively in North America starting with the 2023 model year. The five-door, five-passenger, all-wheel drive vehicle is the brand's smallest model. The Hornet is produced in Italy and is a platform-mate and rebadged variant of the Alfa Romeo Tonale.
What's special about the Hornet 2.0 engine?
The Hornet 2.0 has a 184cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that is OBD2B compliant. Compared to the previous engine, this one makes 16.7bhp and 15.7Nm, which is a minscule drop. Moreover, the engine is paired with a five-speed gearbox with an assist and slip clutch.
