Dodge Hornet Could Launch Next Year as New PHEV Crossover
Stellantis is expected to introduce 20 new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models across its 14 brands over the next two years. Jeep will be largely represented, but don’t sleep on Dodge.
According to a report by Mopar Insiders, the company that gave us Hellcat-powered muscle cars will add a PHEV crossover in 2022 and that vehicle is likely to be called Hornet.
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You may remember that Dodge showed a hatchback concept in 2006 using the Hornet name, but the project was scrapped following Chrysler Group’s restructuring and subsequent merger with Fiat. Last year, however, Dodge filed to trademark “Hornet” for the North American market.
The upcoming PHEV would in some way replace the late Journey, which Dodge eliminated after the 2020 model year (despite decent sales) because it no longer fit with the brand’s performance-focused aspirations. Obviously, it would be more sophisticated, more upscale and also much more expensive.
It appears the vehicle will share its platform and powertrain with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, due in early 2022, rather than the Jeep Wrangler 4xe. The report claims production will take place at the same assembly plant as the Tonale in Naples, Italy.
Similar to the Jeep Compass 4xe and Renegade 4xe sold in Europe, a turbocharged 1.3-litre gasoline engine would combine with an electric motor and 11.4-kWh battery to generate up to 236 horsepower and deliver 40-50 kilometres of range.
Keep following The Car Guide for more details on the Dodge Hornet.