2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus: 7 Surprising Facts About Its Maximum Speed

The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus is out, and if you’re itching to find out just how fast this hybrid SUV can really go, you’re in for a treat. A performance-oriented compact SUV combining power and efficiency is just what the market needed—and Dodge delivered. Whether you're wondering how it stacks up in terms of speed or you're interested in the overall driving experience, we've got everything you need to know right here. Let's dive into what makes the Hornet R/T Plus tick, focusing on its speed capabilities and what that means for you as a driver.

A Quick Overview of the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus

The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus marks the brand's foray into the increasingly popular compact SUV segment. This little beast packs a punch, combining a plug-in hybrid powertrain with bold styling and performance. If you're thinking of the Hornet R/T Plus as just another hybrid, think again—it’s designed to thrill, with a sharp focus on agility and handling while still promising fuel efficiency.

Below, we’ll take a deep dive into this SUV's maximum speed and performance while also touching upon its unique selling points and potential drawbacks—sprinkled with a bit of humor for good measure.

Maximum Speed: How Fast Can the Hornet R/T Plus Go?

So, just how quick is the Dodge Hornet R/T Plus? Let’s break down its speed capabilities:

• Top Speed: The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus can hit a top speed of 128 mph. Now, that might not break any land speed records, but it’s plenty fast for a compact SUV and makes highway merges and lane changes a breeze. You'll definitely feel the thrill when you push this thing on open roads.

• 0-60 mph Acceleration: This Hornet isn't just about top speed; it's about getting there quickly. It boasts a 0-60 mph time of just 6.1 seconds. That’s right—this hybrid SUV can easily keep up with some sports cars, and the electric motor’s instant torque gives you a surprising kick off the line.

• Powertrain Combination: The Hornet R/T Plus combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a rear-mounted electric motor. Together, they produce 288 horsepower and a whopping 383 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor helps bridge any lag from the turbo, making sure you get that quick acceleration you're after.

But How Does It Feel on the Road?

According to Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast who recently took the Hornet R/T Plus for a spin, “You’d think a hybrid compact SUV would be all about efficiency. But no, this thing is fun to drive—it’s punchy, and you feel that torque the second you hit the gas. Honestly, the top speed isn’t even the best part; it’s how quickly it gets there.”

Driving Experience: Speed and Handling

The Hornet R/T Plus is a blast to drive, but there's more to it than just outright speed. Let's break down the driving experience:

Agile Handling

• The Hornet R/T Plus has surprisingly nimble handling thanks to its compact size and well-balanced weight distribution. Steering is responsive, and it feels agile when cornering—perfect for zipping around town or tackling those winding country roads.

Modes of Driving

• The Hornet R/T Plus features different driving modes, including Hybrid, Electric, and E-Save modes. If you're looking to max out your speed, you'll want to be in Sport Mode. This mode optimizes both the gasoline engine and electric motor for performance, giving you that extra power boost when you want to feel the thrill.

Braking and Suspension

• Braking feels confident with regenerative braking that helps charge the battery while bringing you to a stop. It’s smooth but effective. The suspension strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, which is great for daily driving but doesn’t make you feel like you're driving a marshmallow.

Fuel Economy: Balancing Speed and Efficiency

It’s a hybrid, so efficiency is part of the package. Despite the sporty performance, the Hornet R/T Plus has commendable fuel economy for its class. You can expect around 30 mpg combined when driving in Hybrid Mode, while its all-electric range can reach up to 30 miles on a full charge.

• Long Trips vs. Short Bursts: If you’re using the Hornet for your daily commute or quick errands, you’ll love the all-electric mode, which is both quiet and smooth. But if you’re going for a longer drive or want to feel that speed, the Hybrid Mode is your friend. You get the best of both worlds—fuel efficiency and fun driving.

Performance Highlights: More Than Just Speed

Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

• The Hornet R/T Plus uses a 6-speed automatic transmission that’s tuned for sporty shifts. The transmission is smooth and quick to respond, giving you that sense of control when you need it.

All-Wheel Drive: For All Conditions

• The Hornet comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), which not only improves traction in all conditions but also makes cornering a lot more fun. You won’t be skidding around corners unless you really push it.

Pros and Cons: The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious

Let’s break down some pros and cons of the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus, with a touch of humor, of course.

Pros

1. Fast Acceleration – With a 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, it’s one of the quicker compact SUVs out there.
2. Electric Efficiency – The plug-in hybrid powertrain allows for efficient daily driving.
3. Sporty Handling – Sharp steering and balanced suspension make for a fun driving experience.
4. Standard AWD – All-wheel drive is a great feature for performance and safety.

Cons (with a smile)

1. Top Speed Is Limited to 128 mph – Not that you should be going faster on public roads, but there’s always that one guy who’ll say, “Well, my Camaro can do 160.”
2. Rear Legroom Is Tight – Hey, it’s a compact SUV; if you want to stretch out like you're on a long-haul flight, maybe consider a minivan.
3. Small Electric Range – With just 30 miles of all-electric range, don’t expect to go cross-country without a stop—think of it more as a quick sprint to your local coffee shop.
4. Limited Cargo Space – Thanks to the hybrid battery, cargo space takes a bit of a hit. So don’t plan on moving your whole house with it.

Comparing to the Competition: How Does the Hornet Stack Up?

When looking at other hybrid compact SUVs in the market, the Dodge Hornet R/T Plus stands out for its performance. Let’s compare it to a few rivals:

• Toyota RAV4 Prime: While the RAV4 Prime has a longer electric range (42 miles) and better fuel economy, it doesn’t quite have the sportiness or handling prowess of the Hornet.
• Kia Sportage PHEV: The Kia Sportage PHEV offers a slightly larger cabin and similar electric range, but again, it lacks that sporty edge that makes the Hornet R/T Plus so fun to drive.
• Ford Escape PHEV: The Escape PHEV is a solid all-around SUV, but it focuses more on comfort and utility than on performance. It has a quieter ride, but you'll miss out on the excitement the Hornet provides.

Technology and Infotainment: Making the Drive Even Better

The Hornet R/T Plus comes packed with a range of tech features:

Uconnect 5 System

• The Uconnect 5 infotainment system is responsive and easy to use. The 10.25-inch touchscreen display is clear, vibrant, and gives you access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM Radio. The screen layout is intuitive and allows for customization.

Advanced Safety Features

• Standard Safety Suite: Includes forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature helps maintain a safe following distance and adjusts your speed based on traffic.

Pricing and Trims: What Does the Hornet R/T Plus Cost?

The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus starts at around $42,000, but with added features and packages, you could see that number go up a bit. Compared to its competitors, it's competitively priced given the performance-focused nature of the vehicle. For those who prioritize sporty driving dynamics and a balanced hybrid experience, the price feels justified.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus the Right SUV for You?

So is the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus the ultimate compact SUV? It depends on what you're after. If you're looking for a blend of speed, sporty handling, and efficiency, all in a stylish package, then yes, it checks a lot of boxes. The maximum speed of 128 mph and its quick acceleration make it a thrill to drive, while the hybrid setup ensures you're not constantly at the gas pump. However, if you're all about electric range or require more rear-seat space, there are better options out there.

As Alex Collantes put it, "The Hornet R/T Plus isn’t just a great hybrid—it’s a fun SUV. It's not perfect, but it makes you forget the little things because you're having too much fun driving it."

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and test drive the Hornet R/T Plus—just make sure to keep an eye on that speedometer; you might just find yourself going a bit faster than you intended.

References:

1. Dodge Official Website: 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus Overview
2. MotorTrend: “Dodge Hornet R/T Plus First Drive Review: A Compact Hybrid That Packs a Punch”
3. Car and Driver: “2024 Dodge Hornet Review: Fun-First Hybrid with Performance to Match”