Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Dodge Hornet
Our scoring places the 2023 Dodge Hornet at 6.8/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this suv. Its strongest dimension is Value at 8.9/10, while Reliability at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.6/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. The safety score of 8.1/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance at 6.9/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.7/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $32,655–$40,874, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Dodge Hornet sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.9/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2023 Dodge Hornet is a passable suv but not a standout one. Weaknesses in performance and technology and reliability hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2023 Dodge Hornet ranks #2205 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 10% of the segment. Its 6.8/10 overall score is 0.6 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $32,655 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 9%.
$0 — 4 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Hornet Year Should You Buy?
Across the Hornet model years we've scored, the 2023 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
NHTSA Recalls — 2023 Dodge Hornet (4 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Electrical system / Propulsion system / cables / Fastener/connector 07/09/2023 · 23V623000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale and 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The 12-volt battery positive cable and/or high voltage connector cable may not be tightened properly, which can overheat…
Back over prevention / Warnings / External/pedestrian alert 17/10/2023 · 23V696000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The pedestrian alert siren may be missing or disconnected and fail to alert pedestrians when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these…
Equipment / Other / Labels 05/03/2024 · 24V175000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles. The maximum vehicle capacity weight value on the tire placard label is incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal…
Back over prevention / sensing system / camera 15/04/2025 · 25V246000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet vehicles. The display module may not show the rearview camera image. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2023 Dodge Hornet that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2023 Dodge Hornet
Is the 2023 Dodge Hornet reliable?
We rate the 2023 Dodge Hornet's reliability 6.6/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2023 Dodge Hornet have?
4 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2023 Dodge Hornet worth buying?
It scores 6.8/10 overall, ranking #2205 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 10% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2023 Dodge Hornet cost?
The 2023 Dodge Hornet starts at $32,655 and ranges up to $40,874 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Hornet years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 3 Hornet model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (6.9/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2023 Dodge Hornet have?
The documented issues for the 2023 Dodge Hornet are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Electrical system, Back over prevention, Equipment (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Dodge Hornet
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2023 model shown
