Dodge Hornet R/T Wins Award for Electric Performance

The 2024 Dodge Hornet, the first electrified performance vehicle from Dodge, has been breaking ground in more ways than one in recent weeks. Innovative and efficient, the plug-in hybrid propulsion system in the Hornet R/T recently brought home the 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award. This marks the seventh consecutive year that a Stellantis product has been included in this prestigious list of winners.

The powertrain of the Hornet R/T combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine with two electric motors, creating a system output of 288 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle gets over 30 miles of electric range with its 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and the Hornet R/T includes the PowerShot performance feature, which provides a boost of 30 hp and delivers nearly instant torque, increasing the vehicle’s performance even more and taking 1.5 seconds off of the vehicle’s 0 to 60 mph times. Horsepower and acceleration are boosted by this feature’s 15-second bursts of extra power, making it the quickest and most powerful utility vehicle in the segment.

“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.”

Plug-in hybrid vehicles made by Stellantis are continuing to perform well in American markets, with total North America PHEV sales more than doubling during the first half of 2023 and reaching 66,000 units, Stellantis is now the the best-selling automaker in the U.S. for PHEVs, proving that this prestigious award is a sign of a trend for vehicles like the 2024 Hornet R/T.

In the 30 years that the Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award has been around, engines/systems created by Stellantis have won 23 times, putting the Hornet’s propulsion system in good company.

If you’re interested in learning more about Dodge vehicles, including updates on groundbreaking electrified vehicles like this one, make sure you continue to read our blog here at Keller Brothers Dodge Ram!