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2024 Dodge Hornet vs Honda CR-V: What To Choose?
The Hornet, drawing inspiration from the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Enters the compact SUV market with a platform, styling, and interior reminiscent of its sleek counterpart. Propelled by a 268-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Hornet stands out with its spirited on-road performance. Dodge ensures a competitive edge by including a comprehensive set of standard features across all models. On the other hand, the recently debuted CR-V garnered immediate success. Offering reliable performance, ample space, versatile driving dynamics, and engine options. Including a 204-hp hybrid version delivering an impressive 40 mpg combined. With a wealth of modern tech and safety features, the CR-V stands out as our top choice in the fiercely contested compact crossover segment.
| Dodge Hornet | Honda CR-V | |
| Dimensions | 178.3 in x 72.5 in x 63.8 in | 184.8 in x 73.5 in x 66.5 in |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 | 2.0L Atkinson inline-4 + AC motor |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 204 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.5 sec | 7.9 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 15.4 sec | 24.7 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 111 mph |
Dodge Hornet
Engine & Performance
The nonhybrid Hornets feature a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, delivering 268 hp, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD. In urban settings, both Hornet models exhibit lively performance. While the handling is confident and leans towards a sporty feel, it falls short of the athleticism found in competitors from Mazda or Volkswagen. However, it surpasses the Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage in engagement. Although those crossovers may offer a smoother cruising experience, making them better suited for casual drivers.
Price & Mileage
The Dodge Hornet is priced starting at $32,995 for the GT model, with the GT Plus variant reaching $37,995. The base GT offers a range of appealing standard features, such as a spacious 10.3-inch infotainment display. Wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 17-inch aluminium wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The EPA estimates the Hornet’s fuel efficiency at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Acceleration & Features
In initial drives, many found the Hornet to be quite lively, and its turbocharged powertrain propelled the GT Plus test car to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds on the track. All models are equipped with a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. The software interface is the latest Uconnect 5 system. Also used in other Stellantis models like the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and the Ram 1500 pickup truck. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Amazon Alexa integration. Opting for the GT Plus trim brings a 14-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo and in-dash navigation.
Honda CR-V
Engine & Performance
The Honda CR-V features a standard 190-hp turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine behind its upright grille. It is mated to a CVT and is available with either FWD or AWD. This engine is standard on the LX, EX, and EX-L models. On the other hand, the Sport and Sport Touring models exclusively come with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 204 hp. While the Sport model is available with either FWD or AWD, the latter is standard on the Sport Touring. Every CR-V is equipped with hill-descent control to assist in controlling the SUV’s speed on steep or slippery declines at low speeds.
Price & Mileage
The Honda CR-V has a starting price of $30,850 for the LX model, and it goes up to $41,550 for the Sport Touring Hybrid. The CR-V lineup includes the LX, EX, and EX-L models with a standard gas-only powertrain. Additionally, the Sport Hybrid, Sport-L, and Sport Touring Hybrid models exclusively feature the hybrid powertrain. Among these, we recommend the hybrid options. The FWD CR-V with the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine has EPA estimates of 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The most fuel-efficient CR-V is the FWD Sport Hybrid, achieving 43 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.
Acceleration & Features
The Sport Touring Hybrid CR-V achieved a respectable 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds during testing, while the non-hybrid EX-L model took a bit more time at 8.3 seconds for the same test. The CR-V’s infotainment system varies across trim levels. The LX, EX, and Sport models feature a 7.0-inch touchscreen with physical volume and tuning knobs, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The EX-L and Sport Touring models are equipped with a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger display, lacking a tuning knob, features a volume knob and built-in navigation, along with two USB-C ports for rear-seat passengers and wireless smartphone charging. The 12-speaker Bose sound system is available for those opting for the top-of-the-line CR-V Sport Touring.