The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is a compact SUV. (Dodge)
The Dodge Hornet GT compact SUV that shares its platform with the also-new Alfa Romeo Tonale and is built alongside it at a factory in Italy, making it the first Dodge imported from the country.
The Hornet GT is smaller than most of the models in its class like the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V, but Dodge likes to think it is in a class of its own.
The Hornet name has been used on several historic cars. (Dodge)
Starting at $31,590, the Hornet comes standard with all-wheel-drive, a 268 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite its slightly awkward-looking high-riding stance, it is very much a street utility vehicle and the most-powerful SUV for the price.
The dashboard is equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system display. (Dodge)
The interior is very much Dodge. It has a curvaceous dash, lots of chrome trim and seats with throwback rib-patterned upholstery. The rear seats are not the roomiest in the segment, but six-footers will fit. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster brings it into the modern day along with a 10.3-inch touchscreen display on the dashboard.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is standard along with a blind spot monitor and adaptive cruise control. An optional tech package adds an updated 360-degree parking camera and a lane-centering cruise control.
A Track Pack package upgrades the suspension, brakes, wheels and tires. (Dodge)
Along with a Track Pack upgrade that adds higher performance shocks, brakes, wheels and tires, Dodge will be offering even more parts through its Direct Connection catalog to amp things up even farther, just like it does for the Charger and Challenger muscle cars.
The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T GLH Concept is a showcase for future performance parts that may be offered for the Hornet. (Dodge)
The compact SUV segment is both the biggest and most competitive today. Dodge has clearly tried hard to stand out and has succeeded at that.
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The Hornet may not be the perfect compact SUV for everybody, but that was exactly its very sharp point.
Gary Gastelu is Fox News Digital's automotive editor.