Bill Volz's Westchester

Jun 20, 2024
Dodge Hornet parked in parking lot with sunset

Image by Dodge.com

The Dodge Hornet is an exciting new compact SUV with impressive performance and excellent fuel efficiency. As a fresh addition to the Dodge lineup, the Hornet aims to attract modern SUV buyers who prioritize power and practicality. Fuel economy is crucial for many consumers, and the Hornet delivers this without compromising its sporty character. Our team at Bill Volz Westchester put together this guide to the 2024 Dodge Hornet, exploring its EPA-estimated fuel-efficiency ratings, comparing it with its competitors, and offering insights into maximizing your gas mileage.

EPA-Estimated Fuel-Efficiency Ratings

Dodge offers the 2024 Hornet in four trims: the GT, GT Plus, R/T, and R/T Plus. The Hornet GT has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard. According to EPA estimates, the Hornet GT and GT Plus achieve 21 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined. These figures are impressive for a compact SUV with a powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, as many competitors struggle to reach 25 mpg combined.

The Hornet R/T and R/T Plus offer even greater efficiency. These plug-in hybrid models feature a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 15.5 kWh battery pack. This powertrain delivers an impressive 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The 2024 Hornet R/T can travel up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it a compelling choice if you have short daily commutes. The EPA rates the Hornet R/T at 77 MPGe when operating in electric mode. With a depleted battery, it’s good for 29 mpg combined, which is still very efficient for a compact SUV.

Competitive Comparison

To appreciate the 2024 Dodge Hornet’s fuel efficiency, let’s compare it to some of its key rivals in the compact SUV segment. The Honda CR-V, a popular choice, offers a combined 30 mpg with its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. Toyota’s RAV4, another strong contender, achieves up to 30 mpg combined with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.

The rugged Ford Bronco Sport gets 26 mpg combined with its base 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. In comparison, the Hornet’s impressive 24 mpg combined fuel efficiency, despite its powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, sets it apart from the competition.

While the Hornet GT’s 24 mpg combined may not match the ratings of the CR-V or RAV4, it’s important to note that it offers a more powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive. The Bronco Sport comes closer in terms of performance, but the Hornet still has an edge in fuel economy. The Hornet really shines with the R/T plug-in hybrid model, which blows the competition away with its 77 MPGe rating and 32-mile electric range. If you prioritize efficiency and can take advantage of the electric-only driving mode, the Hornet R/T is a clear winner.

Factors Affecting Fuel Economy

It’s important to remember that the EPA bases its fuel-efficiency ratings on standardized testing procedures that may not always reflect real-world driving conditions. Several factors can affect the 2024 Dodge Hornet’s fuel economy, including driving habits, weather conditions, terrain, and vehicle maintenance.

Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and frequent braking can negatively affect the Hornet’s fuel economy. To maximize efficiency, drivers should aim for smooth and gradual acceleration, braking, and steering inputs and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Extreme hot and cold temperatures can impact the Hornet’s gas mileage, as the engine and battery have to work harder in these conditions. Hilly or mountainous terrain will also require more energy, reducing fuel efficiency compared to flat roads.

Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for optimizing the Hornet’s fuel economy. Properly inflated tires, oil changes at recommended intervals, and prompt addressing of mechanical issues can help ensure your Hornet performs at its best. For Hornet R/T owners, it’s essential to charge the battery regularly to maximize electric-only driving and overall efficiency.

Fuel-Saving Technologies

Several fuel-saving technologies contribute to the 2024 Dodge Hornet’s impressive efficiency. One key feature is the vehicle’s aerodynamic design, which helps reduce drag and improve fuel economy at higher speeds. The Hornet’s sleek, streamlined body and active grille shutters optimize airflow and minimize wind resistance.

The Hornet’s advanced engine and transmission play a significant role in its fuel efficiency. The GT’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine features direct injection and variable valve timing, which helps optimize fuel delivery and combustion. The nine-speed automatic transmission offers a wide range of ratios, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient speeds. With its electric motor and battery pack providing instant torque and enabling all-electric driving, the Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid takes efficiency to the next level,

Other fuel-saving technologies in the Hornet include stop-start technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal. This feature helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions in city driving and stop-and-go traffic. The Hornet also offers regenerative braking, which captures the energy typically lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery, further improving overall efficiency.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet’s fuel efficiency is a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance, practical vehicles. The Hornet GT’s 24 mpg combined rating and the Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid’s 77 MPGe make these SUVs a top pick if you want to save on your vehicle operating costs.

Experience the Fuel-Efficient 2024 Dodge Hornet at Bill Volz Westchester

We invite you to visit our Bill Volz Westchester dealership to explore the remarkable 2024 Dodge Hornet. Our knowledgeable sales team will answer any questions you may have about the Hornet’s impressive fuel-efficiency ratings or availability.

At Bill Volz Westchester, we aim to provide our customers with the ultimate car-buying experience. Whether you prefer the Hornet GT or the Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid, we’ll help you find the model that meets your performance, efficiency, and budget requirements. Contact us today to schedule a test drive of the 2024 Dodge Hornet and experience this futuristic, fuel-efficient compact SUV.