The 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus has been a highly anticipated addition to the crossover market, representing a bold foray into a new segment for the brand. As the first all-new Dodge model in over a decade, the Hornet has a lot riding on its success. However, our week-long test drive revealed a mix of impressive performance and notable flaws, leaving us with conflicting feelings about this crossover's true potential.Unleashing the Power of the Hornet GT Plus
Unmatched Performance in its Class
The Dodge Hornet GT Plus boasts an impressive powertrain, making it the most powerful crossover in its class. Under the hood, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, figures that are genuinely remarkable when compared to the competition. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Hornet GT Plus offers a level of performance that is unmatched in its segment.
Impressive Handling and Braking
Beyond the raw power, the Hornet GT Plus also impresses with its sharp and communicative steering, as well as a well-tuned chassis that keeps body roll in check during spirited driving. The all-wheel-drive system provides a good balance, remaining front-wheel-drive-biased but without the tendency to understeer like some rivals. The brakes, too, offer excellent feedback and modulation, instilling confidence in the driver.
Ride Quality and Cabin Comfort
Surprisingly, the Hornet GT Plus manages to strike a balance between its athletic handling and a comfortable ride quality. The cabin remains quiet and composed, even over less-than-perfect road surfaces, making it a pleasant daily driver. The front seats, with their thick bolsters and Alcantara upholstery, provide a good level of support and comfort for the driver and passenger.
Infotainment and Technology
The Hornet GT Plus also benefits from Dodge's excellent Uconnect infotainment system, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. The system is quick, intuitive, and provides excellent graphics, without any noticeable glitches or freezes. The inclusion of physical buttons and knobs for key functions is a welcome touch, catering to those who prefer a more tactile experience over endless touchscreen controls.
Styling and Interior Design
Aesthetically, the Hornet GT Plus is a standout, thanks to its Alfa Romeo-inspired design. The interior, in particular, is a highlight, with tight panel gaps, a clean and simple layout, and high-quality materials that create a sense of premium craftsmanship. The dual-volume controls for the front passengers are a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall user experience.
Pricing and Value Proposition
One of the Hornet GT Plus's most compelling attributes is its pricing. Despite its impressive performance and features, the base model starts at just ,400, excluding destination fees. Even our well-equipped test car, with a sticker price of ,825, represents a significant value proposition when compared to the competition. Dealers have also been offering substantial discounts, making the Hornet GT Plus an even more enticing option for those seeking a performance-focused crossover.
Limitations and Drawbacks
While the Hornet GT Plus excels in many areas, it does have some notable limitations. The rear seats, for example, lack the same level of support and comfort as the front, and the overall cargo space is on the smaller side compared to some rivals. Additionally, the Hornet's warranty coverage is relatively short, with just three years or 36,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper protection, which may be a concern for some buyers.
The Hornet's Delayed Responsiveness
Perhaps the most significant flaw we encountered during our test was the Hornet GT Plus's strange behavior when launching from a standstill. Despite its impressive power figures, the crossover seemed uninterested in moving with the urgency we expected, exhibiting a noticeable delay in its response to the accelerator. This issue was particularly evident when attempting to quickly cross intersections or merge onto highways, leaving us feeling frustrated and unsure of the root cause.
Balancing Performance and Practicality
The Dodge Hornet GT Plus represents a unique proposition in the crossover market, prioritizing performance in a way that few of its competitors do. While it may not excel in every practical aspect, such as interior space and fuel efficiency, it offers a level of driving excitement that is hard to find in this segment. For buyers who value performance above all else, the Hornet GT Plus could be a compelling choice, especially with the significant discounts currently available.However, for those seeking a more well-rounded crossover experience, the Hornet GT Plus may fall short in some areas. The delayed responsiveness from a standstill, the cramped rear seats, and the relatively limited warranty coverage are all factors that potential buyers should carefully consider before making their purchase decision.Ultimately, the Dodge Hornet GT Plus is a crossover that showcases the brand's commitment to performance, but it also highlights the need to strike a better balance between power and practicality. With some refinements to the powertrain and a few enhancements to the overall package, the Hornet could emerge as a true standout in the crowded crossover segment.
