It could be released as a model in 2023.
Only recently, the all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale has been revealed. It was first announced on February 8. In June 2021, rumors of a small crossover called the Hornet from Dodge first surfaced. We last heard about the Hornet in August when new rumors suggested it would be built along with the Tonale.
Two photos show the Hornet exposed, but in very small parts. These images could indeed be Dodge’s small SUV. However, they may not show a common platform beneath. According to a video posted to an Alfa Romeo Facebook page, it showed footage from the Alfa factory at Pomigliano d’Arco. Although the video is no more available, a few screenshots were saved in the forums at Autopareri.com. These images eventually made it onto social media.
One image shows the front end of a red SUV that looks very similar to the new Tonale. Although the hood looks different and the headlights and front fascia have been modified, the proportions appear to be identical. It’s not difficult to swap fascias or headlights from the same platform.
The interior is captured in the second image. This is where things get more interesting. Although some portions of the dash remain covered, the interior looks almost identical to the Tonale’s. The center console, center stack and steering wheel are identical. However, one exception is that the Dodge badge has replaced the Alfa Romeo emblem on the airbag.
The Hornet is expected to share the Tonale’s platform and plug in hybrid arrangement. Although a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine has been rumored to be in Dodge’s plans, we have not heard of any other combinations or trims. Given the similarities, it is not surprising that the Dodge Tonale or Hornet could be clones. Dodge will target lower-priced competitors to the Alfa’s luxury customers.
We should be seeing something about the Hornet this year, with the Tonale now officially in place.