The Dodge Hornet has officially been on the market for two years now and will soon welcome the 2025 model. So, if you are shopping for a used Dodge for sale and want a pre-owned Hornet, consider a 2023 or 2024 model. Alternatively, if you always love the newest and freshest designs, then you should check out the 2025 Hornet.
This exciting, fun-to-drive, performance-forward compact SUV brings the elements that are iconic to the Dodge brand, like powerful engines and striking designs, all within the versatile and highly useful body of a small SUV. You’ll have some options when selecting your Hornet model. So, in order to help guide you in your shopping journey, below we will cover some major standard and available highlights of the Hornet lineup, as well as important distinctions to be aware of amongst models. Let’s take a look.
The Hybrid and the Traditional Gas Engine
First, the 2024 and 2025 Hornet come in the hybrid R/T and the traditional gas-engine GT. The hybrid model delivers an impressive 288 hp as well as 383 lb-ft of torque. It even has a 32-mile all-electric range, so when you’re low on gas, the RT can offer you some extra time on the road before stopping for gas.
For those who would like to stick to a traditional gas engine model, the GT is also powerful and fuel-efficient, boasting 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The EPA states that the 2024 and 2025 Hornet models have a fuel economy of 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, so whether you stick to urban streets or fly down freeways, you’ll see good fuel efficiency in this model.
The Difference Between Hybrid and Gas Models
There are some important differences to note between the hybrid and traditional gas engine models, as the 2024 model year brought some really unique features. For starters, only the hybrid has what Dodge calls the PowerShot feature. At the press of a button, this feature gets you a burst of 30 hp. So when you really want to put your Hornet to the test, you can.
The way to activate the PowerShot feature is to pull both steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters at the same time while performing a pedal kick down. Once activated, it will shave 1.5 seconds off your 0 to 60 time. By the way, your Hornet is smart and will not give you the PowerShot if it is not capable. The system will check the battery level and temperatures before responding to your demand for a PowerShot.
The hybrid model has a group of modes that you can select. First, there is the Hybrid mode, which will allow the vehicle to perform with optimal fuel economy. It provides the combined powers of the gas engine and battery, reducing fuel consumption when possible while monitoring battery levels. Then there is the Electric mode. It allows you to drive in all-electric, giving the gas engine a break. It will do this until it senses that the battery is low or until the driver demands more power. There is also E-Save mode. It prioritizes the use of the gas engine to save battery power.
Finally, it also has a Sport mode, which the hybrid vehicle shares with the traditional gas engine model. At the press of a button on your steering wheel, it will unlock access to the full potential of the Hornet, provide tighter steering, a sharper throttle and an optimized shift schedule. The result is a truly thrilling behind-the-will experience that gives you an intimate connection with the road.
Features That Come Standard for Both the R/T and GT
Their powertrains and associated performance dynamics are the two main differences between the Hornet R/T and the Hornet GT. Dodge intentionally made all of the other features and packages available on all models so that all drivers looking for a hybrid or gas vehicle can experience the fun to be had in a Hornet. Whether you are looking at the initial 2023 model as a pre-owned option or considering the new 2025 one, you’ll find these standard features in each.
Both are going to have standard all-wheel drive, as well as terrific driver assist systems, consisting of sensors and cameras that enable you to be the safest driver possible. Additionally, both vehicles have a 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 display, so you’ll enjoy a massive touchscreen to control your apps. Plus, you’ll get a 12.3-inch digital cluster on each vehicle, helping you monitor vehicle and journey stats.
Packages Available for Both the R/T and GT
Now, let’s talk about the packages you can add to either vehicle. Dodge created a clever and diverse selection of packages that let you customize the experience you have in your Hornet. Are you looking for a true performance vehicle, ready for the track and capable of more than you ever dreamed an SUV could manage? Then check out the Track Pack, which has track-ready performance and style details that will make you excited to get behind the wheel. One of these is a dual-stage valve suspension, which improves handling and traction and offers a smoother ride. It also gets you ultra cool-looking 20-inch Abyss wheels and aluminum interior accents, along with red brake calipers.
If you want an ultra-edgy look that’s perfect for urban streets, consider the Blacktop Package. As its name suggests, it’s going to get you blacked-out details throughout, like 18-inch Abyss wheels, gloss black badging, and gloss black mirror caps. You’ll look like an undercover superhero with this package.
Finally, you have the Tech pack. As its name suggests, it unlocks access to more technology features, primarily in the driver assistance department. These include Traffic Sign Recognition, which can detect upcoming posted traffic signs and display their associated icon on your driver information display in case you missed them with your own two eyes. It also has Driver Attention Assist, which monitors your behavior to ensure you are fit to be behind the wheel and alerts you if it senses you are too tired to drive.
Front and rear park sensors and a ParkView 360-degree camera with Park Assist for parallel and perpendicular spots are also part of this package in models from 2024 and newer. So, if you regularly need to get your Hornet into tight parking spots, you’ll enjoy having this package. That covers the available packages for each model. Now let’s talk trims.
The R/T and GT Plus Models
Also available for both the R/T and GT are the Plus models. These add comfort and convenience features that make them appealing to commuters or road trippers. For both the R/T and GT Plus, you get leather seating surfaces, an 8-way power passenger seat, ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, a sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate. The GT gets the addition of driver seat memory boasting three settings, wireless charging, a remote start system, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and auto-dimming interior lights.
Check Out the Dodge Hornet Today
Dodge smartly designed the 2025 Hornet to be versatile and adaptable to different driver needs, building off what it had established with the 2023 Hornet. But the most important thing to know is that it is, at its core, it’s a Dodge. That means engines that roar and a behind-the-wheel feel that will take your breath away. Dodge understood that many of its customers craved the performance features for which its vehicles were known but needed a more “practical” body style than the traditional muscle car. Hence, the Hornet was born, and we’re so glad it was. Whether you’re looking at the 2025 model or opting to take advantage of a pre-owned one, you’ll find that it provides an exceptional driving experience that few can match.
