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The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT in Acapulco Gold.

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The Dodge Hornet conveys characteristic Dodge styling cues, such as a hood with integrated heat extractors and a “mail slot”-style grille opening.

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The entry-level 2023 Dodge Hornet GT model is the industry’s quickest, most powerful compact utility vehicle under $30,000.

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A Track Pack package for the Dodge Hornet, offering the most performance-oriented configuration, is available for both the GT and R/T and upgrades to 20-inch Abyss wheels and red Brembo brake calipers.

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Premium interior touches for the 2023 Dodge Hornet include class-exclusive, racing-oriented Alcantara seats embellished with unique “red crust” accents that visually burst out and gradually fade, highlighting the unique Alcantara seat perforation.

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The ignition control for the all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet is positioned prominently on the console. Additional performance controls are placed at the fingertips with a button on the performance-oriented steering wheel that enables drivers to choose between Sport and Standard drive modes for the GT and hybrid driving modes for the R/T, keeping the driver connected to the car.

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As automotive journalists, every week brings a new and exciting adventure. This time, we had the pleasure of spending a week with the all-new 2023 Dodge Hornet GT Plus. It was a journey filled with thrills, surprises and, of course, a lot of driving.

First impressions

The Hornet GT Plus arrived in our driveway and greeted us with a bold, aggressive stance. Its sharp lines, sculpted hood and distinctive grille gave off the feeling of athleticism, setting the stage for the excitement we would experience in the upcoming days. Dodge’s signature design language was unmistakable, and it was clear that this compact SUV meant business.

Inside, we were treated to a well-crafted interior. The cabin had an air of sportiness, thanks to the GT Plus trim’s unique accents. The leather-wrapped steering wheel felt great in our hands, and the bolstered sport seats provided ample support and comfort for any adventure that could come our way. With the Uconnect infotainment system and a large touch screen display, we knew that staying connected and entertained wouldn’t be an issue.

On the road

From our first to last trip being behind the wheel of the Hornet GT Plus was a great experience. Powered by a lively 2.0-liter Hurricane 4 engine, this compact SUV offered a spirited driving experience. With 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque on tap, merging onto the highway and navigating through city streets proved effortless in the small SUV. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifted smoothly, giving way to our appreciation of the responsive nature of this powertrain.

The GT Plus trim’s sport-tuned suspension and all-wheel-drive system further enhanced the driving dynamics. Whether it was cruising down the highway or taking on winding roads, the Hornet GT Plus felt composed and confident. Its precise steering and well-tuned chassis added a dose of excitement to our daily commutes.

Interior comfort

One of the highlights of our weeklong trek was the Hornet GT Plus’s interior comfort. The sport seats not only looked the part but also offered excellent support during long drives. The rear seats provided ample legroom and headroom, making it a practical choice for both front and rear passengers. With a spacious cargo area, we had no trouble fitting a huge haul from Costco into the rear space.

The Uconnect 5 10.25-inch infotainment system proved to be very user-friendly, with intuitive controls with seamless, wireless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The touch screen display was responsive, and the optional Alpine audio system delivered impressive sound quality. Whether we were streaming music or using the navigation system, the Hornet GT Plus kept us connected and entertained throughout the week.

Tech and safety

Safety is always a top priority for us, and the Hornet didn’t disappoint in this regard. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. These technologies provided an extra layer of confidence on the road, especially during heavy traffic.

Parking and maneuvering were made easy with the assistance of the 360-degree camera system. It offered a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making tight parking spots a breeze to navigate. We also appreciated the rain-sensing wipers, which automatically adjusted their speed based on precipitation intensity, keeping visibility optimal during a couple of late summer downpours.

Adventures await

As the weekend approached, we decided to take the Hornet GT Plus on a ‘Sunday Drive’ to explore some scenic routes around Utah County. The SUV’s comfortable interior and spacious cargo area made it a perfect companion for our drive. We loaded up our hiking gear and set off to get in a great drive with an afternoon hike.

The all-wheel-drive system proved its worth as we encountered some unpaved roads and uneven terrain. It provided excellent traction and stability, ensuring that we reached our destinations safely. Whether we were admiring breathtaking views at a scenic overlook or enjoying lunch by a remote stream, the Hornet added an extra layer of excitement to our outdoor escapades.

City exploration

As our week transitioned back to the daily grind, we often had time to explore city streets in the Hornet. Its compact size and agile handling made it a breeze to navigate through crowded and sometimes narrow streets and tight parking spaces. The compact SUV’s elevated seating position provided a commanding view of the road, helping to make city driving a stress-free experience.

The sport-tuned suspension, which had impressed us during our earlier drives, continued to shine in urban settings. It absorbed road imperfections with ease, ensuring a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. We appreciated the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay and push-button start, making our city adventures even better listening to our favorite podcasts.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Hornet GT Plus delivered respectable mileage, averaging around 28 mpg during our week of diverse driving scenarios. It wasn’t just fun to drive; it would also help save at the pump.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT Plus proved itself to be a well-rounded and exciting option in the compact SUV segment. It combined style, performance and practicality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking adventure without sacrificing everyday comfort. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that’s as versatile as it is thrilling, the Hornet GT Plus is certainly worth a test drive.

The Hornet’s exterior design turned heads wherever we went, and its well-appointed interior kept us comfortable and connected. With a host of advanced safety features and tech-savvy amenities, it catered to our modern needs.

Base price: $34,995

Destination charge: $1,595

Price as driven: $40,216

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