who makes a hornet car

[KhloeMarie]

The Dodge brand, which is part of Stellantis, is the current manufacturer of the Hornet car. This model marked a significant revival of the nameplate for the 2023 model year. Historically, the "Hornet" name was first used by American Motors Corporation (AMC) on a compact car produced from 1970 to 1977. The modern Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover SUV, strategically positioned to compete in a highly popular segment.

The revival of the Hornet name is a clear strategic move by Dodge to attract a new generation of buyers. The brand, historically known for powerful muscle cars like the Challenger and Charger, is expanding its lineup to include more fuel-efficient and practical vehicles. The Hornet is notably the first Dodge vehicle to offer a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain, signaling a major shift in the brand's direction.

Specification	Dodge Hornet R/T (PHEV)	Dodge Hornet GT
Powertrain	1.3L Turbo PHEV	2.0L Turbocharged I-4
Total System Horsepower	288 hp	268 hp
All-Electric Range	30 miles	N/A
0-60 mph Acceleration	~5.6 seconds	~6.5 seconds
Key Feature	Standard AWD, "PowerShot" boost	Sport-tuned suspension

The Hornet is built on the same platform as the Alfa Romeo Tonale, sharing many components. This partnership helps Dodge enter the segment with a proven architecture. The vehicle emphasizes performance-infused practicality, featuring options like Dodge's "PowerShot" system—a 15-second horsepower boost available on the hybrid model. For buyers seeking a small SUV with more character than typical offerings from Honda or Toyota, the Dodge Hornet presents a compelling, sporty alternative.

[Garcia]

These days, it's Dodge. They just brought the name back for a new small SUV. It's a totally different kind of car from the original Hornet, which was a compact sedan made by a company called American Motors back in the 70s. I see them on the road now, and it's a sharp-looking little crossover. It's cool that they're using a classic name, giving it a bit of a history lesson on wheels.

[SanKayden]

You're thinking of the original, huh? That was American Motors Corporation, or AMC. They built the Hornet from 1970 until about 1977. It was their answer to cars like the Ford Maverick. It was a simple, sturdy car—a sedan, a wagon, even a cool hatchback called the AMC Hornet Sportabout. AMC is long gone now, but the name has more history than a lot of people realize before Dodge decided to use it again for their new model.

[VanAlina]

It's a Dodge, part of the big Stellantis group now. The interesting part is why they chose the Hornet name. It's a nod to the past, but the car itself is all about the future for Dodge. It's their first plug-in hybrid, which is a huge deal for a brand known for V8 engines. They're clearly trying to attract a different crowd while keeping their performance image with quick acceleration and sporty styling. It's a smart move.

[Violet]

As a current car shopper, I was surprised to see the Hornet name at my local Dodge dealer. The salesperson explained it’s their new compact SUV, designed to compete directly with the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. What stood out to me was the available plug-in hybrid option, which is rare in that class. It feels like Dodge is using a familiar name to make a bold entry into a market dominated by imports, betting on a mix of efficiency and their signature performance vibe.