2026 Dodge Hornet

The 2026 Dodge Hornet is a crossover SUV that's the smallest and most affordable model in Dodge's lineup. Assembled in Italy alongside its mechanical twin, the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the Hornet is one of the more stylish and sporty SUVs in this class. For 2026, the GLH performance package is finally set for production, several years after an initial concept was shown. Look for a sportier suspension and a bit more power for the new variant. Aside from the GLH, don't expect any major updates for the 2026 Dodge Hornet.

Edmunds spotlight: Plug-in hybrid power

The Hornet's plug-in hybrid powertrain sets it apart from other small crossover SUVs, most of which only offer a single (usually somewhat anemic and underpowered) engine. The plug-in hybrid comes standard on the Hornet R/T and pairs a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, meaning it can run on both gasoline and electricity. When the battery is fully charged, the Hornet R/T offers an EPA-estimated 33 miles of range. After the battery is depleted, the Hornet PHEV offers fuel economy a few mpg higher than a Hornet with the standard engine. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid significantly increases the Hornet's performance thanks to the electric motor's torque output. Small crossovers might not be the most exciting vehicles, but the Hornet does a lot to buck that trend.

Competitors to consider

The Hornet competes in an extremely tough and crowded segment, with some automakers offering multiple vehicles around the same size and price as the Dodge Hornet. Some of Edmunds' favorites include the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Hyundai Kona, Kia Niro, Volkswagen Taos, Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-30. Only the Niro is available with a plug-in powertrain, though it lacks the performance you'll find from the Dodge.

The Dodge Hornet brings some personality to an otherwise uninspiring segment, and the upcoming performance-oriented GLH model will help boost the Hornet's profile.