2025 Dodge Hornet: Stinging the Subcompact SUV Segment with Style and (Some) Substance

The Dodge Hornet buzzed onto the scene in 2023, aiming to inject a dose of muscle-car attitude into the often-staid subcompact SUV segment. The 2025 model year sees the Hornet continuing its mission, refining its formula rather than reinventing the wheel. While not a radical departure, the 2025 Hornet offers a compelling blend of sporty aesthetics, decent performance, and a price point that undercuts many rivals, though it's not without its compromises.

A Familiar Sting: Design and Exterior

The 2025 Hornet retains the aggressive, muscular design that sets it apart from the crowd. It's a clear descendant of the Dodge Charger and Challenger, sharing their characteristic scowl and athletic stance. The "mail slot" grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights, gives the Hornet a purposeful front end. The hood features prominent bulges, hinting at the power underneath, while the sculpted sides and available 20-inch wheels (on the GT Plus and R/T Plus trims) contribute to a sporty profile.

The rear is arguably the most distinctive aspect, with a full-width LED taillight bar that incorporates the Dodge "Rhombi" logo. It's a bold design choice that, while not universally loved, certainly makes the Hornet instantly recognizable. Available exterior colors range from the understated (like 8 Ball black) to the vibrant (like Hot Tamale red), allowing buyers to customize the Hornet's personality to their taste.

Inside the Hive: Interior and Technology

The Hornet's interior, while not as overtly dramatic as the exterior, is well-designed and functional. The driver-centric cockpit features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen that houses the Uconnect 5 infotainment system. Uconnect 5 is generally praised for its responsiveness, intuitive menus, and features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and over-the-air updates.

Material quality is a mixed bag. While higher trims offer leather upholstery and soft-touch materials in key areas, there's a noticeable presence of hard plastics, particularly on the lower dashboard and door panels. This is a common characteristic in this price bracket, but it does detract slightly from the overall premium feel that Dodge is aiming for.

Space-wise, the Hornet is competitive within its segment. Front-seat passengers have ample headroom and legroom, but the rear seats can feel a bit cramped for taller adults, especially on longer journeys. Cargo capacity is adequate for everyday needs, offering 27 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 54.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This is on par with, or slightly better than, many of its direct competitors.

Performance: Buzz or Bite?

The 2025 Hornet offers two distinct powertrain options, each catering to a different driver profile.

• GT (Gasoline): The GT trim is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive. The GT offers brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time in the mid-6-second range. It's a surprisingly potent engine for a subcompact SUV, providing enough punch for confident highway merging and passing.
• R/T (Plug-in Hybrid): The R/T trim represents Dodge's foray into electrification. It combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor on the rear axle, resulting in a combined output of 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The R/T features a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The electric motor provides an instant torque boost, resulting in a quicker 0-60 mph time than the GT, estimated in the mid-5-second range.The "PowerShot" feature is a highlight of the R/T. Activated by pulling both paddle shifters, it provides a temporary 30-horsepower boost for up to 15 seconds, enhancing overtaking capability. The R/T also offers around 32 miles of all-electric range, allowing for emission-free commuting for shorter trips.

Driving Experience: A Sharper Handling Subcompact

The Hornet's handling is one of its strongest attributes. It feels surprisingly agile and planted for an SUV, thanks in part to its relatively low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension. Steering is precise and responsive, providing good feedback to the driver. While it's not a sports car, the Hornet is certainly more engaging to drive than many of its competitors.

The ride quality is generally comfortable, although the larger wheels available on higher trims can transmit some harshness over rough roads. Road noise is noticeable at highway speeds, but not excessive.

Pricing and Trims: Finding Your Fit

The 2025 Dodge Hornet is offered in a range of trims, starting with the base GT and climbing to the GT Plus, R/T, and R/T Plus. Pricing varies.

• GT: Offers a good value proposition with its powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive.
• GT Plus: Adds features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.
• R/T: Introduces the plug-in hybrid powertrain and its associated benefits.
• R/T Plus: The equipment list will more closely mirror the GT Plus.

The Verdict: A Compelling, If Imperfect, Contender

The 2025 Dodge Hornet is a welcome addition to the subcompact SUV segment. It stands out with its aggressive styling, strong performance (especially in R/T trim), and sharp handling. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system is a definite plus, and the availability of a plug-in hybrid option broadens its appeal.

However, the Hornet is not without its drawbacks. The interior material quality could be better, rear-seat space is somewhat limited, and the ride can be a bit firm with the larger wheels.

Ultimately, the 2025 Dodge Hornet is a compelling choice for buyers who prioritize style, performance, and a touch of muscle-car DNA in a compact and relatively affordable package. It's a vehicle that dares to be different, and for many, that will be enough to make it a winner. It successfully injects some excitement into a segment that often prioritizes practicality over personality. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences.