2023 Dodge Hornet vs Ford Escape Plug In Hybrid

We’ll look at how the R/T compares to the gas-powered Hornet GT. This information has been gathered from original sources to ensure authenticity at the time this was published.

Powertrain Comparison

The Hornet is Dodge’s ‘most important vehicle in years’, writes Motor Trend.

Why? For starters, no other vehicle in the plug in hybrid segment is as capable. Furthermore, the Hornet meets important hallmarks such as driving range and fast charging times.

As you can see in the chart below, Hornets have similar electric range to the other plug-in variants. This allows drivers to enjoy an electric-only commute. Furthermore it has a quick home charging time with a 250-volt charger. In other words, Hornet drivers can enjoy the same or better benefits than they would with a plug in hybrid rival.

Whether it’s the CRV Hybrid, Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or Ford Escape Plug In Hybrid, the Dodge Hornet has a significant edge when it comes to capability. Dodge has created a true muscle SUV with 27 to 84 more horsepower, depending on the rival.

Even better, it has 98 to 228 more torque. The rear electric motor generates 184 lb-ft of torque without the help of the other motor or hybrid engine. Like other hybrid electric vehicles PHEVs, the large battery pack maintains its charge with the help of regenerative braking.

Furthermore, the Dodge EV SUV is the only one to have an available torque boost. With PowerShot, the driver pulls both paddle shifters to activate “launch”. As such, these electric cars can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Interestingly, the system can be utilized in speedier scenarios such as highway passing.

Design and Features Comparison

All in all, SUVs in this price range offer similar basic features. Therefore you can rely on the rivals to offer a full suite of copilot aids. These include systems to avoid common side swipe and forward collision scenarios. Adaptive cruise control regulates speed and works with lane centering for a more automated ride.

In true Dodge fashion, however, the Hornet R/T insists on having a personality inside and out. Taking care of the driver, for instance, it has uniquely angled the driver’s cockpit to make everything easier to see and reach. Likewise, it has designed the dash vents to project the air conditioning more powerfully through an angled design.

Hornet exteriors are distinctive as well. Up front, the hood has muscle-car scoop vents. In the back, there’s a full-length red light square. A Dodge rhombi lights up to add another bit of flair to these distinctive hybrid cars.

Consumers want value for their money, even in cutting-edge electric SUVs. For that reason, R/T standard features include some luxuries such as leather upholstery on its bolstered seats. Options include a racy red interior accent and perforated Alcantara seats.

Plus, It has one of the largest touchscreens in the class. Even better, its digital instrument panel leads the class. This is especially true when it comes to the Honda CRV Hybrid which has a truly outdated instrument panel with just a small screen.

Hornet R/T vs G/T Trim Level

Other than champion fuel efficiency, how does the Hornet R/T differ from its gas-powered edition? In the table, you can see that the plug in hybrid electric Hornet is speedier with 20 extra horsepower and 88 more lb-ft of torque. Of course, its larger battery helps it travel more than 30 miles on its electric battery only.

Still, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is one of the most affordable crossovers with a gas engine. Yet it provides much more power than its gas-powered rivals. Fuel economy is good given its excellent V6-like horsepower.

In addition, many R/T performance features are standard on the less expensive G/T, helping the turbo 4 do more. The table below seeks to lay out the differences and similarities between the Hornet G/T and R/T.

Now that you know more about the Hornet R/T and its rivals, check out how to order the G/T and R/T at your Earnhardt Dodge dealer. Give us a call about the latest Hornet offers. Or, stop by for a closer look at these small SUVs with big muscles.