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    First Drive: 2023 Dodge Hornet Competes on Power and Image

    But this buzzy latecomer trails leading small SUV competitors in many key areas

    2023 Dodge Hornet GT driving
    Dodge Hornet GT
    Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports

    The Hornet is the first small hatchback from Dodge since the woeful, unimpressive Caliber retired in 2012, and it is the brand’s first all-new model in almost a decade. Given the wait and the number of strong small SUV competitors to benchmark, we hoped for better. 

    The Hornet shares most of its body, powertrain, and interior with the 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale. These mechanical twins are built alongside one another at corporate parent Stellantis’ Giambattista Vico plant in Pomigliano d’Arco, Naples, Italy. 

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    The Hornet and Tonale are so similar that the grille, wheels, and a touch of interior trim are about all that distinguishes them. Our Hornet was given a sportier appearance thanks to the pricey GT Blacktop Package that added black trim and badges, and special wheels for about two grand.

    But we found that beyond a bit of extra pep compared to its rivals, the Hornet does not feel special. It may help lure some of the SUV-hungry public into Dodge showrooms. But we recommend cross shopping, for reasons explained in our review. 

    If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Dodge Hornet is available to you below. Once we complete 2,000 break-in miles, we’ll put the Dodge Hornet through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

    If you haven’t signed up to be a CR member yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. 

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    What we bought: 2023 Dodge Hornet
    Powertrain: 268-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; nine-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive 
    MSRP: $29,995
    Options: Cold weather group ($495), Blue Steele paint ($595), GT Blacktop Package ($1,995) 
    Destination fee: $1,595
    Total cost: $34,675

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