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2024 Dodge Hornet vs Mazda CX-50: Which is Better?
Derived heavily from the stylish Alfa Romeo Tonale, the Hornet provides Dodge with a crucial entry into the highly competitive compact SUV market. With a 268-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission powering all four wheels, the Hornet stands out with its lively on-road performance. Dodge ensures each model is well-equipped. On the other hand, Mazda’s shift towards SUVs is evident in the CX-50, showcasing a rugged yet attractive exterior and a near-luxurious interior. Boasting a standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive, the CX-50 becomes more exhilarating with the optional 256-hp turbocharged four.
| Dodge Hornet | Mazda CX-50 | |
| Dimensions | 178.3 in x 72.5 in x 63.8 in | 185.8 in x 75.6 in x 63.9 in |
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 | 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 320 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.5 sec | 6.6 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 15.4 sec | 18.8 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 142 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.
Mazda CX-50
Engine & Performance
All models get a 2.5L four-cylinder, but the better choice is the turbocharged one with 256 hp. The base non-turbo only gives 187 hp. You’ll find a standard six-speed automatic and AWD, ensuring a sporty feel in the CX-50, in line with Mazda’s fun-to-drive tradition. Later, a hybrid model, using Toyota’s powertrain, is anticipated, likely the RAV4 Hybrid’s 2.5L four-cylinder with two electric motors delivering 219 combined horsepower.
Price & Mileage
The CX-50 offers various trim levels, from simple to luxurious, but our pick is the Turbo model. The CX-50 lineup starts at $31,675. The base four-cylinder is the most fuel-efficient, with 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Opting for the turbo trims only slightly decreases these numbers by 1 mpg each, but it amps up the performance significantly. So, for an optimal blend of economy and power, the Turbo model stands out.
Acceleration & Features
Currently, we’ve only tried out the turbocharged version, and it zipped to 60 mph in a lively 6.6 seconds during the track test. The basic CX-50 features a smaller 8.8-inch infotainment screen, but all other trims boast a roomier 10.3-inch display. Both versions use the latest Mazda Connect interface, controlled by a central console click wheel. Plus, every model includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with wireless connectivity.