What is the Dodge Hornet based off of?
The Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV that was recently introduced by Stellantis, the parent company of the Dodge brand. While the Hornet name may be familiar to some, this new model is actually based on a different platform than its predecessor.
Origins of the Dodge Hornet
The Dodge Hornet nameplate has a long history, dating back to the 1950s. The original Hornet was a compact car produced by Dodge from 1952 to 1957. It was known for its sporty design and performance, and was a popular choice among younger buyers at the time. The Hornet name was then revived in the early 2000s for a concept car, but that model never made it to production.
The New Dodge Hornet
The latest iteration of the Dodge Hornet is a significant departure from its predecessors. This new Hornet is a compact crossover SUV, built on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Tonale. This means it shares many of the same underpinnings and design elements as the Tonale, but with Dodge's distinctive styling and performance-oriented features.
Key Features of the Dodge Hornet
The Dodge Hornet is available in several trim levels, each with its own unique set of features and capabilities. Some of the key highlights include:
- Turbocharged engine options, including a high-performance Hornet R/T model
- Available all-wheel drive system
- Sporty, aggressive exterior design with Dodge's signature styling cues
- Spacious and well-appointed interior with modern technology features
- Competitive pricing and fuel efficiency for the compact crossover segment
By leveraging the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform, Dodge has been able to bring the Hornet to market quickly and efficiently, while still maintaining the brand's performance-focused identity.
Conclusion
The new Dodge Hornet represents a fresh take on a classic nameplate, blending the brand's heritage with modern crossover SUV design and technology. While it may not be a direct successor to the original Hornet, this new model is sure to appeal to a new generation of Dodge enthusiasts looking for a compact, sporty, and capable vehicle.
What is the Dodge Hornet equivalent 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.
Is the Dodge Hornet the same as the Alfa Romeo Tonale?
Both models use a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. However, the Hornet produces 288 horsepower, while the Tonale makes 285 horsepower. Despite similar power outputs, the Tonale feels more refined and tuned for a smoother, more premium driving experience.
What is a Dodge Hornet based on?
The Hornet is produced in Italy and is a platform-mate and rebadged variant of the Alfa Romeo Tonale.
Who is Hudson Hornet based on?
The Hudson Hornet, and its character Doc Hudson, is based on the real-life NASCAR racer Herb Thomas and his championship-winning 1951 Hudson Hornet. Thomas was a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who dominated the early 1950s with the "Fabulous Hudson Hornet," making the automaker a household name and influencing the character's story arc.
- Herb Thomas: A pioneering NASCAR driver who won championships in 1951 and 1953, largely behind the wheel of a Hudson Hornet. The "Fabulous Hudson Hornet" name was painted on his car and became his nickname.
- The Fabulous Hudson Hornet: The 1951 Hudson Hornet was a championship-winning car in its own right, thanks to the powerful Twin-H-Power inline-six engine.
- Character inspiration: The Pixar movie Cars uses Thomas's career and the iconic car as a foundation for the character of Doc Hudson, who is a retired racing legend with a championship past.
- Other influences: The character's name also pays homage to the Hudson Motor Car Company, which realized the marketing power of racing success.
