During our review of the debut of the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT here, we were impressed with the compact-utility vehicle’s style including the signature “mail-slot” style grille, vehicle-width taillamp, 268 horsepower, and overall thrill to drive. In 2024, we get the R/T Plus, an updated version of the Hornet that shows Dodge’s aspiration to provide an earth-friendly, hybrid plug-in model. 

Exterior Hornet badging on the Blacktop Package.

Still embracing a lot of the physical characteristics of the precious year’s introduction, plus a responsive powertrain flexing 288 horsepower from a 1.3-liter, I-4 turbo PHEV engine, the five-seater R/T Plus­­—standing for the “Road and Track” series that has more performance than a standard version but just below the track-terrorizing SRT trims­—puts a lot of emphasis in gas conservation. With an EPA-estimated 77 MPG-equivalent in combined city/highway miles when utilizing the hybrid capability, and 26 MPG if driven solely in gas mode. (Note that the Hornet can go approximately 30 miles on solely battery power.) I strongly recommend anyone considering the electric vehicle sector to entertain owning a hybrid first to get an idea on how electricity works with a vehicle; getting gas is always an option with hybrids. The R/T Plus is a version that could help that transition. 

The 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T features a high-power inverter and 7.4-kW charging module allowing for a full battery charge to be reached in approximately 2.5 hours using a Level 2 charger.

The Plus trim, which is about $5K more than the R/T version, adds genuine leather, a theateresque Harman Kardon sound system, ventilated front seats, voice activation, power sunroof, a hands-free liftgate, and wireless charging to name a few upgrades to the already generous standard features. More recommended options this review model boasted included the stunning Blu Bayou paint and red leather seats. The Customer Preferred Package ($2,345) delivers parking-assist applications, a surround-view camera system, and a plethora of other safety features. Boost the eye candy level with black gloss paint on the mirror caps and side window moldings,18-inch “Abyss” finish aluminum wheels, a leather wrapped steering wheel, and signature “R/T” badging which collectively comes in the R/T Blacktop Package ($1.595).  

For a hybrid to fit five comfortably while providing a nimble, road-gripping driving experience with fewer trips to filling stations, the head-turning R/T Hornet could be a perfect fit. 

Price: $46,400 MSRP base; $52,925 as reviewed with aforementioned packages

Gas economy: 77 MPGe/29 gasoline only

For more information, visit Dodge.com.