2023 Dodge Hornet vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh, with its blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. The cabin was positioned towards the rear wheels, maintaining the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a ruggedness with its blistered and boxed fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. The oversized air intake and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually overwhelming. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch wheels, the CX-50 presented an appealing exterior. The upcoming Meridian Edition promised even more with exclusive wheels, all-terrain tires, and a roof-mounted load platform.

In contrast, the 2023 Dodge Hornet embraced its Dodge DNA with a front end that boasted muscle-car styling cues, including a wide "raccoon mask" face, bulging hood, and dual extractors. The illuminated Rhombi logo and taillights spanning the vehicle's width ensured it stood out in traffic. From the side, the Hornet resembled a Porsche Macan or Cayenne, with upward-pointing windows adding a premium touch. This design choice, influenced by its Alfa Romeo Tonale roots, might have been a shift for Dodge loyalists, but it suited the Hornet's family vehicle role. The standard silver 17-inch wheels might have seemed modest, but the Blacktop and Track Pack packages offered more aggressive options. The Hornet's seven exterior color options, including Hot Tamale, added to its vibrant appeal.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 187 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. Mazda estimated a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg for this version. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The turbocharged engine ensured smooth acceleration without noticeable turbo lag, and the CX-50's driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, worked seamlessly with its G-Vectoring Control technology. The CX-50's ride was slightly firmer than the CX-5, and it offered up to 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable of light off-roading.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet boasted "best-in-class performance" with its Hurricane 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power output surpassed many competitors, including the Chevy Trailblazer and Honda HR-V. The Hornet's Sport mode enhanced throttle response, steering, and upshifts, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds. While the base Hornet GT was responsive from a standstill, it exhibited some lag when accelerating from cruising speeds. The Hornet R/T's hybrid powertrain offered improved pickup, and the available Track Pack package provided further performance enhancements.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was well-equipped for cold climates, with heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated side mirrors. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control were appreciated during warmer days. The driver and front passenger seats were comfortable for long journeys, though they could benefit from more side bolstering. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, and the nearly 90-degree opening rear doors facilitated easy entry and exit. Cargo space was practical, with 31.4 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and a maximum of 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

In the 2023 Dodge Hornet, the GT Plus trim's leather seats provided superior comfort compared to the base model's cloth seats. The four-way powered lumbar adjustment and memory settings were valuable for families with multiple drivers. The cockpit's layout was driver-focused, with the screen and controls angled towards the driver. Visibility was generally good, though the A-pillar design occasionally obstructed views during left turns. The Hornet's interior design emphasized performance, with features like a flat-bottomed steering wheel and red stitching.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base model featured an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims had a 10.25-inch display. Historically, Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, but the 2023 CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered valuable information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, both angled towards the driver. The Uconnect 5 system was intuitive and easy to use, with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The GT Plus trim included a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system and a wireless charging pad. The navigation system worked well, though it occasionally continued giving instructions after ending a route.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though it had not yet been evaluated by the IIHS. It offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with additional features available on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control system occasionally failed to recognize vehicles cutting into the lane, highlighting a need for improved sensitivity.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet came standard with advanced driver-assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Tech Pack added a surround-view camera, driver-attention monitoring, and Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. The Hornet had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its comprehensive safety features were promising.