“It's comfortable while providing tech and power. It makes your daily commute fun to drive while still respecting your fuel cost.”
2023 Dodge Hornet: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest news for 2023 is the Hornet itself: this is the all-new compact SUV’s launch year and the start of its first generation.
About the 2023 Dodge Hornet
1st generation, first year
Dodge positions the Hornet as the compact SUV for people who think most small crossovers are too dull. The pitch centers on aggressive styling, more standard power than mainstream rivals, standard AWD, and a cockpit that feels aimed at the driver instead of just commuting duty. In simple terms, the Hornet is Dodge’s everyday performance SUV: practical enough for daily use, but sold on quick acceleration, sharp responses, and a louder personality than the usual compact SUV crowd.
Dodge positioned the GT as the gas-powered performance entry point, with a 268-hp turbo four-cylinder and standard AWD, while GT Plus adds leather, navigation, upgraded audio, and more convenience features. R/T is the 288-hp plug-in-hybrid performance model with an electric rear motor and Brembo front brakes; R/T Plus combines that powertrain with a more upscale cabin. Every trim has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The launch lineup consists of 268-hp gas-powered GT models and 288-hp plug-in-hybrid R/T models. Every 2023 Hornet has all-wheel drive.
Tech
Every trim has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Structural
The Hornet launches with fully independent suspension, Koni dampers, and a system that directs power across the wheels to improve cornering throughout the lineup.
2023 Dodge Hornet specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | ||
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd | Automatic, 9-Spd | ||
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | ||
| Fuel Type | Gas | Plug-In Hybrid | Gas | Plug-In Hybrid |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | ||
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | ||
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 288 hp | 268 hp | 288 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb | 2000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 54.7 cu-ft | 50.5 cu-ft | 54.7 cu-ft | 50.5 cu-ft |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2023 the first year of the Dodge Hornet?
Yes. The 2023 Hornet is an all-new compact SUV and the first model year of the Hornet’s first generation.
Which 2023 Dodge Hornet trims are plug-in hybrids?
The 2023 Hornet R/T and R/T Plus are plug-in hybrids. Their 288-hp system combines a turbocharged 1.3-liter engine with a rear electric motor, a six-speed automatic transmission, and electric all-wheel drive.
Did every 2023 Dodge Hornet have all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is standard on every 2023 Hornet, including the gas-powered GT models and plug-in-hybrid R/T models.
How are the 2023 Hornet GT and R/T different?
The GT is gas-powered, while the R/T is a plug-in hybrid. The GT uses a 268-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a nine-speed automatic; the R/T has a 288-hp hybrid system, a six-speed automatic, an electric rear motor, and Brembo front brakes.
What display technology is standard in the 2023 Dodge Hornet?
Every 2023 Hornet has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard throughout the lineup.
2023 Dodge Hornet Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Dodge Hornet.
3.9
2023 Dodge Hornet
(80 reviews)
“It's a bit tight inside but not hard to get used to. Ride is a bit harsh and some noise can be heard from multiple parts of the vehicle while riding. Aside that it's really fun and responsive.”
“It's a great sleek beautiful car, inside and out! It's safe and drives with ease and power”