2023 Dodge Hornet vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Dodge Hornet showcased a design that was unmistakably Dodge, with its aggressive front end featuring a wide "raccoon mask" face, bulging hood, and dual extractors. The illuminated Rhombi logo on the taillights added a distinctive touch. However, from the side and rear, the Hornet bore a resemblance to the Porsche Macan or Cayenne, which might have felt less Dodge-like but added a premium feel. The standard silver 17-inch wheels were a point of contention, appearing cheap from a distance, though the Blacktop and Track Pack packages offered more appealing wheel options. Inside, the Hornet emphasized performance with red stitching and a flat-bottomed steering wheel, while the GT Plus trim offered more luxurious seating options.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced the Z71 trim for those interested in moderate off-roading. It wasn't designed for extreme terrains like the Jeep Wrangler but could handle rugged paths. The Traverse's pricing was competitive, starting at $38,995 for the LS model and reaching $55,595 for the RS model. The Z71 model, priced at $47,795, featured gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and an Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. Inside, the Jet Black interior with "Torch Red" accents added flair, and the standard cloth seats provided comfort. The Traverse offered a spacious interior with Smart Slide second-row seats and a power-folding third row, enhancing cargo capacity.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet boasted impressive performance with its Hurricane 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This outperformed many competitors, with only the Mazda CX-30 coming close in terms of power. The Hornet's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and steering, achieving a zero-to-60 time of 6.5 seconds. While the base Hornet GT was responsive at lower speeds, it experienced a lag when accelerating from cruising speeds. The Hornet R/T's hybrid powertrain improved this aspect.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse replaced its previous 310-horsepower V6 with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor. The Traverse's AWD system, especially in the Z71 trim, provided enhanced traction. On highways and country roads, the Traverse delivered satisfactory acceleration and passing power, with a pleasant exhaust growl. The steering was adequate, and the ride quality was commendable, even with all-terrain tires. The brakes were progressive, and the stop-and-start feature was seamless. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 18 mpg city to 26 mpg highway.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet's GT Plus trim offered more comfortable leather seats with four-way powered lumbar adjustment and memory settings. The cockpit layout favored the driver, with a screen positioned for easy access. However, the A-pillar design occasionally obstructed the view of oncoming traffic. The Hornet's interior was driver-focused, with heated and ventilated seats available on higher trims.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for eight in the base LS model, while the LT, Z71, and RS trims featured second-row captain's chairs for easier third-row access. The Smart Slide seats and power-folding third row enhanced versatility. Cargo volume was competitive, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and 96 cubic feet with seats folded. The Traverse offered numerous storage options, including a hidden storage area under the center console. Visibility was generally good, though the third row's view was limited by the rear fender design. The Z71 trim included a power-operated driver's seat, but the front passenger seat was manually adjustable.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 5 system. The infotainment system was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The GT Plus trim added a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and navigation.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse impressed with its 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument display. The Google-based software offered intuitive voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Z71 trim included a wireless charging pad. Physical controls for volume and HVAC functions were appreciated, though the headlight controls were buried in the infotainment system. The Traverse also offered Super Cruise, a hands-free driving aid, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning. The Tech Pack added a 360-degree camera and Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. However, the Hornet had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a comprehensive suite of driver aids, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. A surround-view parking camera and rear pedestrian alert were also included. The Traverse had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.