The Dodge Hornet Is Practically Being Given Away - Should You Take the Deal?

Remember the Dodge Hornet? If you don’t, you’re not alone. It came and went so fast that most drivers barely noticed. Built mainly to satisfy emissions rules, this re-badged Alfa Romeo Tonale was never a priority for Dodge. But now, with dealers desperate to clear lots, leftover Hornets are selling for thousands below sticker.

That makes them worth a second look, especially if you’re shopping for a compact SUV on a budget.

A quick check of Dodge’s official inventory shows 2025 GT AWD models starting under $32,000, while R/T trims can climb past $50,000. But real-world deals go much lower. We found a 2025 Hornet GT in Washington for $26,957. A 2024 R/T in Michigan is listed at $24,995. And in Arizona, a 2024 R/T AWD with just 465 miles is priced at $20,574.

Some of those low-mileage cars were likely loaners or test-drive vehicles, so if that bothers you, look for a fresh odometer. Supply is limited, but demand is almost nonexistent, which means prices may keep dropping.

0-liter Hurricane four-cylinder that makes 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. It’s no CVT econobox. One of our editors described it as feeling more like a hot hatch than a crossover, with sharp, responsive steering.

He recommends skipping the hybrid version and going for the cheaper gas model. D. Power, and there have been recalls for loose battery cables and brake issues. But those are mostly resolved on 2025 models.

At full price, the Hornet was easy to overlook. At these discounts, it becomes a genuinely appealing daily driver. It won’t become a collector’s item, and it never lived up to its legendary name. But if you need a fun, practical SUV and don’t mind buying a car the market forgot, this might be the deal you’ve been waiting for.