What year did Dodge introduce the Hornet?
The Hornet was introduced in 2022 as the 2023 model-year compact SUV from Dodge, reviving a name from the 1970s AMC era and signaling a shift toward electrified, performance-oriented crossovers.
What the debut signified for Dodge
The Hornet’s arrival marked Dodge’s expansion into the compact-SUV space with a modern, efficiency-conscious model that still carries the brand’s performance DNA. It leveraged a platform shared with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, reflecting Stellantis’ strategy to unify engineering across brands while offering electrified options.
Heritage and branding
The “Hornet” badge has historical roots in American cars, most notably with AMC in the 1970s. Dodge revived the name for a contemporary crossover, aligning it with the company’s push toward broader electrification and a refreshed lineup.
Milestones in the Hornet’s rollout
The following milestones chart the Hornet’s path from initial announcement to showroom availability.
- Announcement and reveal: Dodge publicly introduced the Hornet in 2022 as a new compact SUV for the brand’s lineup refresh.
- Model-year designation: The Hornet was launched as the 2023 model-year vehicle, following typical industry practice of naming model years ahead of sales.
- Market introduction: Production and initial deliveries began in 2023, with the model reaching Dodge showrooms and select markets.
The timeline confirms that Dodge introduced the Hornet in 2022 for the 2023 model year, with sales starting in 2023.
Technical context
Platform and powertrain strategy
The Hornet sits on a platform shared with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, enabling turbocharged engines and hybrid or plug-in hybrid options. This approach allowed Dodge to deliver a modern, efficient compact SUV with performance-oriented DNA without developing a completely new architecture.
Trim range and market aim
Although exact trims and outputs vary by market and year, the Hornet has been positioned to blend practical everyday usability with Dodge’s signature driving dynamics, targeting buyers seeking a small SUV with spirited performance and electrified options.
Summary
In brief: Dodge introduced the Hornet in 2022 as a 2023 model-year compact SUV, reviving a classic name while leveraging a Tonale-based platform and pursuing electrified, performance-driven crossovers in a competitive segment.
When did Dodge start making the Hornet?
Dodge has introduced the Hornet nameplate in two main ways: a concept car in 2006 and a production compact SUV in 2023. The 2006 concept was a mini multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that was planned for production but canceled after the 2008 financial crisis. The 2023 production model is a compact crossover SUV, built on the Alfa Romeo Tonale platform.
- 2006 Concept: Dodge unveiled a concept for a mini multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) called the Hornet in 2006. It was intended for a 2010 release but was canceled due to the financial crisis and restructuring at Chrysler.
- 2023 Production Model: The name was revived for a new production model in 2023. This is a compact crossover SUV based on the Alfa Romeo Tonale and is Dodge's first plug-in hybrid vehicle.
What is special about the Dodge Hornet?
The 2025 Dodge Hornet is built to feel lively. The GT's 2.0-liter turbo delivers strong midrange torque and quick throttle response for everyday passing. The R/T PHEV uses electric torque to make launches feel immediate. One of the pros of the 2025 Dodge Hornet is the estimated 0 to 60 time.
What year did the Hornet car come out?
1951
Hudson Motor Car Company introduced the first Hornet in 1951 as a performance model featuring the automaker's new "H-145" engine. The automaker formed a stock car racing team centered on the car, and the "Fabulous Hudson Hornet" soon became famous for its wins and stock-car title sweeps between 1951 and 1954.
What vehicle did the Dodge Hornet replace?
In 2023, Dodge started to phase out its Dodge Durango SUV and began to replace it with the all-new Dodge Hornet, America's first muscle SUV. It's got three trims, good gas mileage, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) trim called the Dodge Hornet R/T.
