Dodge has long been a symbol of raw American performance, known for creating some of the most iconic muscle cars like the Charger and Challenger. With decades of experience building vehicles that embody speed, power, and bold styling, Dodge is now applying its expertise to a new, fast-growing segment: the compact SUV market.
Unlike many crossovers that prioritize comfort over character, the Hornet is built with Dodge’s signature spirit — blending aggressive design, thrilling performance, and cutting-edge technology into one bold package. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards SUVs and crossovers, Dodge’s introduction of the Hornet shows a commitment to evolving with the market while staying true to the brand’s high-performance roots. Whether you're a long-time Dodge enthusiast or someone looking for a crossover that breaks the mold, the 2025 Hornet promises to deliver an experience that's anything but ordinary.
Bold and Aggressive Design
At the front, the Hornet features a menacing grille with a gloss-black finish, flanked by slim, piercing LED headlights that enhance its intimidating presence. The hood is sculpted with subtle power bulges, hinting at the performance that lies beneath. Aerodynamic elements, like the functional side vents and sporty front splitter, not only add to its athletic appearance but also contribute to better airflow and efficiency.
Blacked-out window trim, bold fender flares, and available 20-inch alloy wheels further emphasize its wide stance and sporty proportions. At the rear, sleek LED taillights span across the liftgate, connected by a light bar that adds a modern, high-tech touch. The rear diffuser and dual chrome exhaust tips complete the Hornet’s dynamic look, reinforcing that this is no ordinary crossover — it’s a true performance-inspired SUV.
Performance That Excites
True to Dodge’s legacy, the Hornet isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it's about making every drive an experience filled with excitement, power, and control. This powerplant, paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, propels the Hornet with authority, delivering brisk acceleration that puts it among the quickest in its class. With standard all-wheel drive, the Hornet ensures excellent grip and stability, making it just as confident on twisty roads as it is on slippery surfaces.
The R/T combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, resulting in a total system output of around 288 horsepower and an impressive 383 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the instant torque delivery from the electric motor, the Hornet R/T launches off the line with thrilling urgency.
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Modern Interior and Advanced Technology
Dodge has designed the Hornet’s interior to blend sporty aesthetics with premium materials and intuitive technology, creating a driver-focused environment that elevates every journey. The cockpit-style layout puts all key controls within easy reach of the driver, while a thick, flat-bottomed steering wheel adds a true performance-car feel. Optional heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control further enhance the Hornet’s everyday usability and comfort.
At the center of the dashboard is a cutting-edge 10.25-inch touchscreen running Dodge’s latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system — one of the most intuitive and customizable systems on the market. Uconnect 5 offers faster processing, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and multiple user profiles, allowing each driver to have their own customized settings for navigation, audio, and climate preferences.
This high-resolution display keeps important information directly in the driver’s line of sight, reducing distractions and enhancing the driving experience. The 2025 Hornet also packs an impressive list of standard and available safety technologies, aimed at giving drivers greater peace of mind. Features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with active braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system help to keep the Hornet safe in all conditions.
For audiophiles, an optional Harman Kardon premium sound system with 14 speakers turns the Hornet’s cabin into a concert hall on wheels, delivering rich, immersive audio quality no matter the journey.
Pricing and Trims
The lineup starts with the Hornet GT, which is expected to have a starting price around $31,000. The GT Plus trim provides a more luxurious feel while maintaining the Hornet’s aggressive attitude, and it's a great option for those who want a more premium experience without moving into hybrid territory.
It also offers an estimated 30 miles of all-electric range for emissions-free city driving. In addition to its impressive performance credentials, the R/T trim includes unique styling touches, upgraded braking and suspension systems, and special driving modes designed to maximize electric boost and efficiency. Pricing for the R/T variant is expected to start closer to the mid-$40,000 range, reflecting its additional powertrain complexity and enhanced features.
Dodge will also offer several optional packages across the lineup, allowing customers to further customize their Hornet. These packages include performance upgrades, appearance enhancements, and added technology features, ensuring that buyers can tailor their Hornet to match their exact tastes and driving needs.
With its competitive pricing and range of well-equipped trims, the 2025 Dodge Hornet offers something for nearly every type of driver — whether you prioritize value, luxury, or pure driving excitement.
Why the 2025 Hornet Stands Out
In a crowded compact SUV market filled with safe, predictable options, the 2025 Dodge Hornet dares to be different. It breaks away from the mold by injecting genuine performance, aggressive styling, and bold personality into a segment that often prioritizes practicality over excitement. The Hornet isn’t just another crossover — it’s a statement for drivers who refuse to settle for boring.
One of the key factors that sets the Hornet apart is its authentic performance DNA. Few vehicles in this class can match the Hornet’s acceleration, handling dynamics, and all-wheel-drive confidence, especially at a price point that remains accessible for a wide range of buyers.
The Hornet’s design also plays a huge role in its uniqueness. It looks fast, even when standing still — a visual promise that the driving experience will be anything but ordinary. Finally, Dodge's offering of a plug-in hybrid variant shows a smart recognition of the changing automotive landscape.
