SAN ANTONIO

Dodge Hornet compact crossover rings up as a bargain in base form

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We first encountered the all-new Dodge Hornet five-passenger crossover this past spring during a daylong manufacturer media ride-and-drive program in Asheville, North Carolina.
Our initial impressions of Dodge’s first foray into the small-crossover segment were favorable, but our time in the driver’s seat was limited. 
For this report, we were given a full week to explore the Hornet, with our test vehicle being the base GT model, which starts at $30,735 (plus $1,595 freight) – a bargain for what you’ll get.

We also recently tested the Alfa Romeo Tonale, another new compact crossover from the same parent company as Dodge (Stellantis). There were many similarities, because the Dodge Hornet is essentially an Americanized version of the Tonale, and is made in the same Alfa plant in Italy.
This familial connection is key to the Hornet’s mission: to bring a sporty compact crossover into the Dodge lineup to appeal to young couples and families. Alfa has long been known as a sports brand.

Some of the Hornet GT’s sporty attributes – beyond its styling – include quick acceleration from its turbocharged gasoline engine and roadhandling that feels more like that of a sports coupe than a family SUV. All-wheel drive is standard on all Hornet models, as well.
The GT model comes with the 2.0-liter Hurricane inline four-cylinder turbo engine, connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission, rated at 268 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque (using premium fuel).

Dodge says it can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. That’s not exactly sports-car performance, but it’s impressive for a family hauler.
There also is a GT Plus model, using the same drivetrain, which offers more standard amenities including leather seats,…