Dodge Hornet R/T Celebrated by Wards Thanks to its Innovative Powertrain

The groundbreaking plug-in hybrid electric vehicle propulsion system in the 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T, Dodge’s first electrified performance vehicle, has earned recognition as a recipient of the 2023 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award. This marks the seventh consecutive year that a vehicle from Stellantis has earned this esteemed distinction.
The acclaimed powertrain melds a 1.3-liter turbocharged I-4 engine with a pair of electric motors, yielding a total system output of 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Powered by a 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, it grants an electric range exceeding 30 miles. Notably, the Hornet R/T boasts the PowerShot performance feature, which injects an additional 30 hp for instant torque delivery. By employing 15-second bursts of supplementary power from the battery and electric motor, PowerShot accelerates the vehicle, slicing 1.5 seconds off the usual 0 to 60 mph time. Consequently, it stands as the swiftest and most potent utility vehicle within its segment.

“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. 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,” said Micky Bly, Stellantis head of global propulsion systems.

Battery electric vehicles (BEV) and electrified propulsion systems play a crucial role in Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan. This plan commits the company to reducing its global carbon footprint by 50 percent by 2030 and aims to lead the transportation industry by achieving net carbon neutrality by 2038. Part of this strategy involves achieving a 100 percent passenger car BEV sales mix in Europe and a 50 percent passenger car and light-duty truck BEV sales mix in the United States by 2030. In line with these objectives, the first Stellantis BEVs set to launch in North America include the Ram ProMaster van and the Fiat 500e, anticipated to arrive by early 2024.

Stellantis continues to make waves with its PHEV models, as evidenced by a substantial increase in North American PHEV sales during the first half of 2023, totaling 66,000 units. This achievement has propelled Stellantis to the position of the leading automaker in the U.S. for PHEVs. In a triumphant continuation of their success, this year’s award for the 1.3-liter turbo I-4 PHEV builds on Stellantis’ double victory in 2022. In the previous year, Stellantis secured wins with the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 plug-in hybrid featured in the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, as well as the brand-new Hurricane Twin Turbo I-6 in the Grand Wagoneer by Jeep. Throughout the 30-year history of the Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems award, Stellantis engines and systems have claimed an impressive 23 victories.

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

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Photo Source/Copyright: Stellantis