As we’re sure you’ve heard by now, the 2023 model year not only marks the end of an era but the beginning of a new one for the Dodge brand. While the current iterations of the Challenger and Charger are being discontinued after this year, a brand-new model has been introduced to kickstart the brand’s electric future. The 2023 Dodge Hornet is available in two variants, one the gas-powered sports car fans of the brand have come to expect while the other is a plug-in hybrid that mixes the brand’s signature performance with the versatility of a lithium-ion battery. The 2023 Ford Escape is one of the model’s biggest competitors, especially considering it, too, is offered in both gasoline and plug-in hybrid models. We thought we’d see how the two models measure up to one another.
The 2023 Dodge Hornet GT is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine capable of generating up to 268 horsepower alongside 295 pound-feet of torque. With its standard all-wheel drive system and 9-speed automatic transmission, the Hornet achieves 21 miles per gallon through the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Looking at the most similar Escape, it’s powered by a turbo engine of the same size but only achieves 250 hp and 280 lb-ft., though it gets 23/31 mpg with its 8-speed auto and Intelligent AWD.
Unfortunately, it seems as if Dodge won’t be adding the plug-in R/T trim level to the mix until 2024. We still wanted to take this opportunity to compare the two vehicles to one another, though. So, when it is released, the Dodge Hornet R/T will be powered by a 1.3L turbocharged engine in addition to a 90-kW electric motor and a 15.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This combines for a total of 288 hp and 383 lb-ft. of torque, compared to the 192 hp and 155 lb-ft. of torque the Escape Plug-In Hybrid can deliver.
Naturally, these two vehicles are going to differ in the list of content that comes standard in a given trim level, as well as the available upgrades. Each model is packed with features and tech, but it’s going to come down to what’s important to you that might set one apart from the other. For example, the Hornet features the Dodge brand’s Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, such as Automatic Emergency Braking. The Ford Escape, however, offers the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety technologies.
If you think you might be interested in a 2023 Dodge Hornet of your own, be sure to check out what’s available in our online inventory as the brand-new model has already arrived here at Briggs Dodge RAM. If you don’t see a model that suits your needs or would like to order one that meets your own specifications, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us right here at the sales desk. We’d be happy to help either way!