It reportedly shares a lot with the Alfa Romeo Tonale mechanically.
As a concept crossover, the Dodge Hornet nameplate was unveiled at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show. A production version never arrived…until now. These spy photos capture one in light camouflage while he is being developed on the road in Detroit.
The Hornet currently in production is not the same as the original concept. There are similarities to the Alfa Romeo Tonale which make sense since both vehicles use the same platform.
The Hornet’s front fascia has inlets at the corners and a trapezoidal opening in its center. The vehicle’s front features a narrow grille and an opening slightly larger above. The narrow, pointed edges of the headlights are accentuated by their sharp edges.
The Hornet’s sides have cladding around the wheel wells, lower edge and body. The crossover doesn’t look too boxy thanks to the angled window and arching roofline on the rear hatchback. The rear door’s lower window has an upward sweep. These wheels look identical to the Tonale’s.
The spoiler at the tail is located on the roof. A surround for the spoiler outlines the sides and windows. There are three rectangular taillights on each side.
According to reports, the powertrains for Hornet are the same as those offered by Tonales. The Dodge would have a 1.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder and an electric motor to power the rear axle. This would result in a total system output at 272 horsepower (203 kW) in the USA. The battery pack, which can be charged at 15.5 kilowatts per hour, would provide more than 30 miles of range.
It could also follow the Tonale’s complete engine lineup. The US would get a turbocharged four-cylinder with 256 horsepower (191 kW) or 295 pound-feet (405 Newton-meters). The Alfa offers two 1.5-liter mild hybrid powertrains in Europe and a diesel option.
Their production site will also be a connection between the Hornet & the Tonale. Both will be produced at the Pomigliano d’Arco Assembly Plant, Italy. The small crossover will be coming in 2022 , as confirmed by Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand boss.