Dodge's 2024 Hornet R/T Hybrid Just Won an Impressive Award

The new plug-in hybrid featured in the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T is already winning an impressive award. The highly respected automotive resource Wards has named the new hybrid one of its 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems for 2023. This is the first year that the new hybrid system has been up for consideration. The Dodge Hornet R/T performance hybrid is the first electrified performance vehicle from Dodge. The Hornet R/T is the quickest and most powerful utility vehicle in the segment.

2024 Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV

The 1.3-liter turbo I-4 powertrain uses the hybrid power to add horsepower. It gives the small crossover 288 horsepower and 383 lb.ft. of torque. The Hornet R/T even has what it is calling a PowerShot feature that adds 30 extra horsepower for 15 seconds. The on-demand feature lets drivers use the maximum electrical power and reach 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The hybrid has more than 30 miles of all-electric range. 

“This powertrain is a joy to drive in most situations, from punching up PowerShot on a launch to silent EV motoring on local errands,” said Bob Gritzinger, WardsAuto editor-in-chief and a Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems judge. “It’s quick when you want it, mellow when you’re just cruising.”

“Driving fun won’t ever go out of style, and the 1.3-liter turbo PHEV that powers the Dodge Hornet R/T, as well as other very successful models around the world, opens a new chapter for performance,” said Micky Bly, Stellantis head of global propulsion systems. “Our global electrification strategy is in full execution mode and with it comes new levels of capability and performance, all geared toward powering class-leading products that deliver on our ambition for clean, safe and affordable mobility.”

Stellantis Powered Innovation

This 1.3-liter turbo I-4 powertrain will be used in other Stellantis models around the world. Another Stellantis brand, Jeep, has had tremendous success with PHEVs. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the best-selling PHEV in America. The second best-selling PHEV is the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe.

This year’s award for the 1.3-liter turbo I-4 PHEV follows a double win for Stellantis brands in 2022. Last year, the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid in the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe and the all-new Hurricane Twin Turbo I-6 in the Grand Wagoneer by Jeep received awards from Wards.

PHEVs are Crucial for the Future

BEVs and electrified propulsion systems are crucial in Stellantis’ plan to cut its global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030. Stellantis wants to half of its passenger car and light-duty truck sales to be BEVs in the United States by 2030. The first BEVs in North America will be the Ram ProMaster van and the Fiat 500e. Both are scheduled to arrive by early 2024.

Dodge Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

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