Dodge Hornet R/T Awarded in 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems

Rear View of the 2023 Dodge HornetDodge shows there is life after the Hemi with the announcement that the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid has won the 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award. The Stellantis models carried by Rairdon’s Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Bellingham have accounted for 23 winners in the 30-year history of the award, and this is the seventh consecutive year a Stellantis product has been included among this prestigious list of winners.

Of major interest is that this year, it was earned by Dodge’s first electrified model, though Stellantis’s electrified drivetrains have won before. This year’s award for the 1.3-liter turbo I-4 PHEV follows last year’s dual win for the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid in the Jeep® Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe and the all-new Hurricane Twin Turbo I-6 in the Grand Wagoneer.

Plug in Hybrid Dodge HornetPlug-in Hybrid Provides Best of Both Worlds

The Hornet R/T combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with two electric motors to deliver a system output of 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The motors are supplied energy by a 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and propel the Hornet R/T on nothing but electrons at regular operating speeds for an estimated 30 miles. That covers much, if not all, of many people’s commute or daily driving routine. However, the Hornet R/T operates as a standard hybrid when long distances are called upon, providing an EPA-estimated combined MPG of 29. All Hornet R/T models have all-wheel drive.

Seat Detail in the 2023 Dodge HornetAs a Dodge, the Hornet R/T has performance in its DNA, so it is no surprise that the Hornet R/T is the quickest and most powerful vehicle in its very crowded segment. This is helped by PowerShot features, which provide a 15-second boost of 30 horsepower. That is sufficient to reduce 0 to 60 mph acceleration time by 1.5 seconds and will significantly shorten passing times and distances. 

“This powertrain is a joy to drive in most situations, from punching up PowerShot on a launch to silent EV motoring on local errands,” said Bob Gritzinger, WardsAuto editor-in-chief and a Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems judge. “It’s quick when you want it, mellow when you’re just cruising.”

“Driving fun won’t ever go out of style, and the 1.3-liter turbo PHEV that powers the Dodge Hornet R/T, as well as other very successful models around the world, opens a new chapter for performance,” said Micky Bly, Stellantis head of global propulsion systems. “Our global electrification strategy is in full execution mode and with it comes new levels of capability and performance, all geared toward powering class-leading products that deliver on our ambition for clean, safe and affordable mobility.”

Rear View of the 2023 Dodge HornetAll Part of a Large Plan

Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan calls for the company’s products to cut their overall global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030. Stellantus also plans to lead the industry by achieving net carbon zero by 2038. The plan forecasts reaching a 100% European passenger car BEV sales mix and a 50% passenger car and light-duty truck BEV sales mix in the United States by 2030. Early 2024 will see the arrival at Rairdon’s of Bellingham, Stellanus’ first North American battery electric vehicles in the form of the all-electric Ram ProMaster van and the Fiat 500e.

Interior of the new Dodge HornetWhile the Hornet R/T is Dodge’s first electrified vehicle, parent company Stellantis has become the best-selling automaker in the U.S. for PHEVs through its Chrysler Pacifica PHEV and the above mentioned Jeep models

As Dodge’s newest nameplate, the Hornet disrupts the popular if sleepy compact crossover category with the highest standard power and extraordinary efficiency. If you are considering a compact crossover, you need to make sure the Hornet is on your list and come to Rairdon’s Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Bellingham for a test drive.