29 MPG combined might not be what you expect from a “high-performance compact crossover,” but that’s what Dodge has delivered with the 2024 Hornet PHEV. The all-wheel drive system and plug-in hybrid powertrain give this Hornet a blend of efficiency and capability that appeals to a specific buyer.

City and highway performance

The 2024 Dodge Hornet PHEV is rated at 29 MPG in both city and highway driving. This is unusual, as most vehicles achieve different mileage figures in the city versus on the highway. The consistent fuel economy figures show the efficiency of the hybrid powertrain, which can operate in electric-only mode at lower speeds. For drivers who spend most of their time in stop-and-go traffic, the potential for significant electric-only mileage is a real advantage. The 1.3L turbocharged engine provides enough power on the open road to maintain consistent efficiency during highway driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Dodge Hornet PHEV is $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often you plug in to drive in electric-only mode.

If you consistently charge your Hornet PHEV and primarily drive short distances, you could potentially spend significantly less than the EPA estimate. However, those who primarily drive long highway distances and rarely plug in may find their fuel costs exceeding the predicted $1,500 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary. Driving style plays a big part, aggressive acceleration and hard braking will reduce MPG, especially in a vehicle with a smaller displacement engine that uses electric assist. Ambient temperature can also affect fuel economy and battery performance.

Very cold or very hot conditions can decrease the efficiency of the battery and reduce the distance available on electric-only power. Terrain, road surface, and even tire pressure can also subtly impact your observed MPG. Maintaining proper tire inflation is always a smart move. For more information on all Dodge fuel economy data, check out our resource page.

How it compares

The 2024 Dodge Hornet PHEV competes in a crowded segment of compact SUVs, and its fuel economy plays a big part in purchase decisions. The Toyota RAV4 Prime, another plug-in hybrid, boasts a combined 94 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when factoring in electric-only driving. Once that battery range is depleted, the Prime delivers around 38 MPG combined. The standard (non-hybrid) RAV4 manages around 30 MPG combined.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid achieves around 40 MPG combined, offering better overall fuel efficiency but without the plug-in capability and limited pure EV range of the Hornet PHEV. The Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers a similar PHEV concept, rated around 40 MPG combined when gasoline consumption only is factored in, or 105 MPGe when including electric driving.

The appeal of the Hornet PHEV lies in its combination of electric capability, standard AWD, and sporty driving feel, even if it isn’t the absolute leader in fuel efficiency. Explore HORNET MPG across all years for a broader view of this model’s efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Hornet’s regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. Learn to anticipate stops and coast whenever possible to maximize the amount of energy recovered. This is especially effective in city driving where you frequently stop and start.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Use the vehicle’s app or infotainment system to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin while the Hornet is still plugged into the charger. This reduces the drain on the battery and engine when you start driving, preserving battery range and fuel efficiency.

Optimize your driving mode. Experiment with the different driving modes (electric, hybrid, E-Save) to find the best settings for your driving conditions. Use electric mode for short trips and city driving, hybrid mode for longer trips, and E-Save mode to preserve the battery charge for later use.

Monitor your driving habits. The Hornet’s infotainment system provides information on your fuel economy and energy consumption. Pay attention to these metrics to identify areas where you can improve your driving habits. Smooth acceleration, consistent speeds, and avoiding hard braking can increase your MPG.