2025 Dodge Hornet Review

The 2025 Hornet in Phoenix comes in two primary flavors: the R/T and the GT.  These trim levels claim best-in-class power outlay, best-in-class suspensions, class exclusive damping shocks, class exclusive brake calipers, and unique performance features.

The R/T is the Head of the Hive with a hybrid powertrain that delivers an exhilarating driving experience. For those drivers who prefer a more traditional approach, the GT offers a turbocharged gasoline engine that still packs a punch.

Shoppers can personalize their choice with the Tech Pack, Track Pack and more. The Hornet Blacktop Package adds blacked out detailing for a very racy ride.

Track packs add excitement with a dual stage valve suspension and 20-inch Abyss wheels. The exterior gains red brake calipers while the interior gets dressed in special accents. These Dodge Hornets in Phoenix match their sporty performance with a sportier interior featuring Alcantara sport seats and aluminum pedals.

The 2025 Dodge Hornet R/T represents the Dodge brand's move into the electrified performance arena. A 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor delivers a total output of 288 horsepower and a staggering 383 lb-ft of torque. This setup guarantees that this is the most powerful utility vehicle in its class. 

But the R/T isn't just about raw power; it also offers an impressive 32 miles of all-electric range, thanks to its 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery.

One of its standout features is the PowerShot. This on-demand feature provides a burst of 30 extra horsepower, rocketing the R/T from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. To activate PowerShot, simply pull both steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and kick down the accelerator pedal. The system will then check the battery charge and temperature before unleashing the extra power.

Maximizing efficiency, the hybrid mode prioritizes electric power until the battery reaches a minimum level. Electric mode allows for all-electric, zero-emission driving. And E-Save mode prioritizes the gasoline engine to conserve battery power. To maximize fun, sport mode quickens the pace.

For those who prefer a traditional gasoline engine, the 2025 Dodge Hornet GT in Phoenix delivers with the Hurricane4. This 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder pumps out 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most powerful gas-powered vehicle in its class.

Like the R/T, the 2025 Hornet GT adds more fun via a dedicated button on the steering wheel. This Sport mode enhances throttle response, optimizes shift points, and provides access to full power and torque for a more engaging driving experience. With the punch of a button, the Hornet GT can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.5 seconds.

Both the GT and R/T are all-wheel drive SUVs, ensuring optimal traction and control in various driving conditions. Dynamic torque vectoring precisely distributes torque to the wheels with the most grip, improving traction and cornering ability. When combined with Sport Mode, the system acts as an electronic limited-slip differential, further enhancing the Hornet's agility.

Getting your favorite Hornet trim level starts with a good trade-in value. Phoenix area drivers can use this Kelley Blue Book tool for a fair assessment.

Dodge has engineered the Hornet to be more than just a straight-line performer. Both the R/T and GT models are equipped with a host of features designed to enhance handling and provide a dynamic driving experience.

Class-exclusive Koni frequency selective damping shocks offer a balance of comfort and control, smoothing out bumps and dips while keeping the Hornet composed during cornering. Working in conjunction with the shocks is the best-in-class front and rear fully independent suspension. 

Braking performance is another area where the 2025 Dodge Hornet in Phoenix excels. The R/T comes standard with Brembo four-piston front fixed calipers, providing exceptional stopping power. These class-exclusive calipers are also available as an option on the GT. 

Further enhancing braking performance on the R/T is the class-exclusive brake-by-wire Intelligent Braking System. This technology ensures consistent pedal feel and performance under various driving conditions. An available dual-stage valve suspension allows you to adjust the damping characteristics to suit your driving style or the road conditions.

Inside the Hornet, you'll find an interior that's as technologically advanced as it is sporty. Dodge has stayed true to its driver-centric design philosophy, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach.

Two large screens dominate the Dodge dashboard. The digital cluster provides a wealth of information, including speed, engine RPM, fuel level, and more. You can customize this digitized cockpit to show different gauges and information, including hybrid drive mode displays for the R/T. Featuring easy to read menus, the touchscreen is endowed with Android system for fast responses to spoken commands.

• 12.3-inch digital cockpit

• 10.25-in Uconnect 5 system, Android-based

• Customizable home screen layouts

• Two phones connect simultaneously

• Wireless Android Auto

• Wireless Apple CarPlay

• Available Amazon Alexa

• Dual-zone automatic climate controls

For audiophiles, the available Harman Kardon premium sound system delivers an immersive listening experience. This system boasts 14 speakers and 465 watts of total output, ensuring crystal-clear sound quality.

From the start, Hornet seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's ample space for both passengers and cargo. The overall design is modern and stylish, with red stitching accents adding a touch of sportiness.

Choosing the R/T Plus or G/T Plus adds more style, amenities and tech tools. Stylistas will love the full leather seating and many other soft touches. The driver’s power chair is matched with an eight-way power passenger seat. These are ventilated front seats, which make Phoenix drivers and their partners extremely comfortable during our hottest summers. A sunroof can bring in light and air when the weather’s nice.

A hands-free power liftgate makes it easier to access the spacious cargo hold. The Harman Kardon sound system, a wireless charger, remote starter, and a heated steering wheel are additional GT/Plus features.

Safety is a top priority in any vehicle, and the Dodge Hornet is no exception. Standards include a comprehensive suite of advanced features designed to protect you and your passengers.

Universal standard features include automatic emergency braking, which can detect pedestrians and cyclists and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision. A Lane Support System helps you stay within the marked lines by providing visual and haptic warnings if you start to drift. 

Blind-spot detection with rear cross path detection alerts you to incoming traffic, helping you avoid accidents when changing lanes or backing up. With these and other driver assistance features, the 2025 Dodge Hornet in Phoenix provides peace of mind and helps you stay safe on the road.

For added peace of mind, the Hornet offers three levels of parking assistance. The standard system includes four rear parking sensors and a high-definition backup camera with guidelines. The available Tech Pack adds front parking sensors, a ParkView 360 camera, and parallel and perpendicular park assist.

The Tech Pack also includes a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that take safety and convenience to the next level. These features include Intelligent Speed Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition, which can detect speed limits and provide a one-click option to adjust your speed accordingly. Driver Attention Alert monitors driving behavior and alerts you if it detects signs of fatigue. 

Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control  maintains a safe following distance and can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop to match traffic. Lateral control-lane support tech combines lane keeping assist and traffic jam assist to help keep the Dodge Hornet centered in its lane.

Ready to experience the sting of the Hornet for yourself? Visit your local Dodge dealer in Phoenix, Earnhardt CDJR in Gilbert.

Whether you choose the electrified R/T or the traditional GT, the Hornet is fun to drive and packed with features.