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2024 Dodge Hornet vs Kia Sportage: What To Buy?
The Hornet, drawing inspiration from the stylish Alfa Romeo Tonale, fills a crucial gap for Dodge in the competitive compact SUV segment. Powered by a 268-hp turbo-four and featuring a spirited on-road demeanour, it outshines rivals. Boasting standard amenities like a digital gauge display, advanced infotainment, and driver-assistance features, the Hornet impresses. In contrast, the Kia Sportage prioritizes spaciousness, positioning itself against the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. With a starting price, the Sportage offers a 187-hp engine, with Hybrid and PHEV options addressing power concerns. While its unique design distinguishes it, the Sportage shares similarities with the Hyundai Tucson, presenting a well-equipped and affordable alternative in the compact crossover market.
| Dodge Hornet | Kia Sportage | |
| Dimensions | 178.3 in x 72.5 in x 63.8 in | 183.5 in x 73.4 in x 66.9 in |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 | 2.5L DOHC inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.5 sec | 8.6 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 15.4 sec | 24.4 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 117 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.
Kia Sportage
Engine & Performance
The standard powertrain for the Sportage features an 187-hp 2.5L four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available with either FWD or AWD. The Sportage has been redesigned on a new platform with an extended wheelbase, contributing to enhanced ride comfort. Models like the X-Line and X-Pro, with a rugged appearance, aim to impart an off-road aesthetic. The X-Pro, in particular, is equipped with features suitable for rough terrain, including black 17-inch rims, all-terrain tires, and various drive modes.
Price & Mileage
The Kia Sportage is priced starting at $28,565 for the LX and extends up to $39,365 for the X-Pro Prestige. The EX, positioned in the midrange, is considered a value-oriented choice, incorporating features like a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless smartphone charging, and heated front seats. Regarding fuel efficiency, the Sportage achieves 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with FWD, while AWD models have EPA ratings of 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Acceleration & Features
On the test track, the nonhybrid Kia Sportage took 8.6 seconds to reach 60 mph, while the hybrid variant achieved this in a swifter 7.4 seconds. In terms of infotainment, the Sportage offers standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base configuration includes an 8.0-inch infotainment display, along with a digital gauge display. Opting for the larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen is recommended for enhanced connectivity and clearer graphics. Touch-sensitive controls beneath the infotainment interface switch between the climate system and the stereo. Optional features include an upgraded Harman/Kardon audio system, a wireless phone charger, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.