2023 Dodge Hornet vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The Hornet is introduced as a compact utility vehicle, or CUV. This would seem to suggest that “compact” and “sport” are mutually exclusive (no shade on Dodge; they didn’t coin the term). But the Hornet defies that with its emphasis on power, attitude, and in-crowd fun.

Yes, the Hornet is also notable in that the 2024-model-year hybrid R/T is Dodge’s first electrified performance vehicle. But every automaker has—or will soon have to have—its own first electrified model. That in itself is these days remarkable only internally. However, we would argue that the Hornet represents a gateway with influence far outside the company as well: It creates a previously nonexistent pathway for the type of consumers the Dodge brand targets, who will now be able to take the step toward electrification without sacrificing their street cred.

A small multi-purpose vehicle that Hyundai sells as a crossover SUV, the 2024 Venue has a base price of $21,275, including the destination charge. Three versions are available, each equipped with a 121-horsepower four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. It holds four adults (five if you squeeze) and can carry up to 31.9 cubic feet of cargo. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the Venue includes important safety features. You can expect 31 mpg in combined driving.

Verdict: One of the best things about the Venue is the value it provides. You get a long warranty with roadside assistance, complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, and with the top trim level, lifetime access to connected services. Affordable to buy and own, the 2024 Hyundai Venue is a budget-friendly choice.