2026 Dodge Hornet Specs, Price, Release Date – Lots of people are looking forward to the 2026 Dodge Hornet. Find out why this little automobile revolutionizes its category by joining CarcareVip. The 2026 Dodge Hornet is reimagining tiny cars with its eye-catching exterior, cutting-edge interior, powerful engine, and cutting-edge safety measures. Come along as we investigate this remarkable vehicle in detail.
The 2026 Dodge Hornet provides a comparable experience to the more expensive Alfa Romeo Tonale, but it’s more inexpensive. The Dodge and Alfa share a plug-in hybrid engine, but the Dodge also offers a 268-horsepower non-hybrid variant. The all-wheel drive system is standard on both engines.
The Hornet’s cabin is somewhat smaller and offers less space for passengers and baggage compared to comparable compact SUVs such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. But when it comes to handling on the road, the Hornet really shines. Digital gauge displays, the most recent infotainment interface from Dodge, and several driver-assistance systems including autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle recognition are all standard on every Dodge model.
This year, the plug-in hybrid R/T variant is available; it features a 288-horsepower drivetrain and can supposedly go more than 30 miles on electric power alone. There won’t be any major updates to the Hornet portfolio in 2026, its second year on sale. 2026 Dodge Hornet Specs
2026 Dodge Hornet Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
An eye-catching external design distinguishes the 2026 Dodge Hornet from its rivals. This little vehicle radiates elegance and sportiness with its sharp angles, aggressive posture, and striking characteristics. The Hornet’s intimidating appearance is heightened by its prominent grille and its elegant LED headlights, which encircle the front fascia. The aerodynamic design and contoured sides add to its dynamic appeal. The availability of eye-catching color selections also gives prospective customers a sense of customization.
All the way from its practical hood scoops and classic wide stance to its futuristic interior and aggressive appearance, the 2026 Dodge Hornet expertly blends modern conveniences with its utilitarian exterior. A power sunroof with a power-rolling sunshade and a windjammer that lowers wind noise, spring-loaded, is standard on the GT Plus and R/T Plus Performance Hybrid variants. Get ready to go with ease by loading up. You may enter with ease even when your hands are full thanks to the hands-free power liftgate that is offered. Opening it is as easy as kicking your foot beneath the license plate.
The 2026 Dodge Hornet has an exquisitely designed cabin that expertly marries practicality with high-end luxury the moment you step inside. Long trips are a delight in the roomy interior, which provides plenty of space for the driver and passengers. The chairs offer great support, even on long rides, thanks to their ergonomic design.
The Hornet spares no expense when it comes to technology. Large touchscreen infotainment system that gives a multitude of entertainment options and effortlessly interfaces with cellphones serves as the highlight of the dashboard. Staying connected while on the road is made easy with smart connection capabilities like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition, the car’s excellent audio system provides an engrossing listening experience.
The Hornet’s interior is similarly big as the Tonale’s, so it’s comfortable up front but cramped in the back. Similar to the Tonale, this vehicle’s interior has a tall shift lever for the automatic gearbox located in the center console and a slightly inclined infotainment system and main controls aimed towards the driver.
Similar to the Alfa Romeo, the Hornet’s steering wheel is adorned with a Dodge emblem in the middle. Underneath the left spoke, you’ll find the integrated ignition switch. The GT Plus trim level includes leather upholstery, while the Track package adds faux-suede. The standard upholstery is black with red stitching. On top of that, a red leather inside is an additional option.
Every trim level is equipped with a 12.3-inch digital gauge display and a 10.3-inch infotainment interface. This Stellantis model shares its software interface with the newest Uconnect 5 system, which is also found in the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and the Ram 1500 pickup truck. Included as standard equipment are wireless technologies like as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connection. When you choose for the GT Plus trim, you get a wireless phone charger and a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo instead of the base model’s audio system. 2026 Dodge Hornet Specs
2026 Dodge Hornet Specs
Engine & Performance
The 2026 Dodge Hornet doesn’t skimp on performance. Depending on your driving style, you may choose from a number of potent engine options located under the hood. There are two exciting engine options available for the Hornet: a fuel-efficient four-cylinder and a high-performance turbocharged version.
Navigating tight city streets or twisty highways is a breeze with this car’s quick gearbox and excellent handling. The Hornet is the ideal compromise between ease of movement and responsiveness thanks to its agile chassis and finely adjusted suspension system. In addition, cutting-edge safety systems like traction and stability control make sure you’re safe on the road no matter what.
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Hornet GT variants is turbocharged and capable of producing 268 horsepower. Both all-wheel drive and the automatic transmission with nine speeds are part of the package. Our first impressions of the Hornet GT were that it had a lively ride, and we think that its motor would be more than enough to get it to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds.
Conversely, Dodge’s first plug-in hybrid is the R/T model. It has 288 hp thanks to its electric motor and turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine. Even while all-wheel drive is still standard on the R/T, it comes with a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the GT’s five-speed. Pulling both paddle shifters activates PowerShot, a function that briefly increases output by 30 horsepower in the engine.
At our test track, the Hornet R/T Plus PHEV equaled the Alfa Romeo Tonale’s 0-60 mph speed of 5.5 seconds when the PowerShot mode was enabled. This is to be expected given the near-identical nature of the two vehicles; the only difference is that the Alfa does not utilize the gimmicky PowerShot function to get its top speed.
Even when powered solely by electricity, the Hornet R/T (and hence the Tonale) manages to seem energetic in metropolitan environments. You won’t get the same level of athleticism or satisfaction from rivals like Volkswagen or Mazda, but the handling is assured and dynamic. 2026 Dodge Hornet Specs
2026 Dodge Hornet Fuel Economy
Many people now prioritize fuel efficiency when purchasing a vehicle due to growing environmental concerns and the high cost of fuel. To allay these fears, the 2026 Dodge Hornet’s powertrain range provides outstanding gas mileage. The four-cylinder engine options are great for long-distance trips or regular commutes because of the excellent gas mileage they provide in both city and interstate traffic.
The Hornet also uses state-of-the-art engine technology including start-stop functionality and direct fuel injection to maximize efficiency without sacrificing power. The automobile is both economical and eco-friendly because to its emphasis on economy.
The R/T plug-in hybrid model’s 12.0 kilowatt-hour battery pack allows for 33 miles of all-electric range on a single charge. We were able to get 31 miles out of the Hornet on electric power alone before the gas engine kicked in during our fuel efficiency test on a highway with a speed restriction of 75 mph. Using a level 2 charger to recharge the battery took about 2.5 hours.
2026 Dodge Hornet Safety Features
That 2026 Hornet is loaded with state-of-the-art safety systems to guarantee the safety the drivers and passengers, since safety is Dodge’s top priority. Automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a full complement of driver-support systems are all included in the car. Together, these systems improve situational awareness and contribute to safer driving.
On top of that, the Hornet has a sturdy structure and crumple zones that are precisely designed to absorb impact energy when it crashes. Additional occupant safety is provided by many airbags, which include front, side, and curtain airbags. Thanks to these safety improvements, the 2026 Dodge Hornet has topped independent safety group crash test ratings.
Among the many driving aids included as standard equipment on the Hornet is autonomous emergency braking that can identify both pedestrians and cyclists. Parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring are included on all versions. Additional capabilities, such adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, are available as an extra Tech package. See the NHTSA and IIHS websites for additional details about the Hornet’s crash test results. Important safety measures consist of:
- Standard automated emergency braking.
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- Standard lane-departure warning.
- Lane-keeping assist.
- Available adaptive cruise control with lane-centering features.
2026 Dodge Hornet Release Date & Price
There is a wide variety of trim levels and available options for the 2026 Dodge Hornet, so it can meet the needs of buyers with varying tastes and budgets. Depending on their individual requirements, buyers may personalize their Hornet by selecting from a wide range of available feature combinations. Although prices could change depending on the features you choose, Dodge’s pricing strategy is designed to give you the most bang for your buck.
An abundance of desired features, including as a spacious 10.3-inch touchscreen display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless compatibility, 17-inch bronze wheels, rain-sensing defo wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more, come standard on the affordable GT variant. For those in search of complete relaxation, we recommend the Cold Weather Family program. You get heated seats. This is a heated wheel, a remote start as standard equipment. You can save money by skipping this bundle if you live in a warmer climate.
Trims | Price |
GT | $32,331 |
GT Plus | $37,331 |
R/T PHEV | $42,531 |
R/T Plus PHEV | $47,531 |
Conclusion
With its eye-catching appearance, state-of-the-art technology, outstanding performance, sophisticated safety features, and remarkable fuel economy, the 2026 Dodge Hornet is expected to create a stir in the compact vehicle market. If you’re looking for a fashionable city cruiser or a practical everyday driver, the Hornet is a great choice. Its versatility and reasonable pricing make it a strong candidate for class leadership. Keep an eye out for the 2026 Dodge Hornet’s debut so you may drive a tiny automobile of the future.
Although it falls short of being considered a great SUV, the 2026 Hornet gets the job done. The fun element of this Dodge is increased by its lively powertrain and somewhat competent handling, but that is almost its sole redeeming trait.
Note: The details included in this blog post are derived from pre-release material that was accessible when the article was written. If you want the latest information, you should check official sources or call your nearest dealership.