Automotive Engineering - May 2023 - 14

ROAD READY
The Hornet's standard AWD incorporates " dynamic " torque
vectoring for both GT and R/T trims. If the Sport driving
mode is selected, the system also provides an electronically
controlled limited-slip differential function. Either Hornet trim
has a firmer ride than some customers in the compact segment
might expect, but the standard Koni FSD dampers and
the optional driver-selectable 2-stage dampers supplied by
Marelli brilliantly blend control with reasonable comfort.
The Hornet's base braking system, as well as the Brembocalipered
upgrade setup, both seemed stronger and more
confident than the braking capability typical of the segment.
" I got a lot of push from senior leadership outside the
brand - I'm talking about within [Stellantis North America]
engineering - to make sure that it had the correct sporty
characteristics for a Dodge. Not only I would say 'direction,'
but 'support,' " Del Pup stressed. " Support to make sure that
we did very unique things with this vehicle to make sure it
was true to the Dodge name.
" You want tight steering, you want good performance,
you want a 0-to-60 [attributes], " he added. " We don't want
an appliance. "
With a 103.8-in (2636-mm) wheelbase and overall length
of 178 in (4528 mm), the Hornet is a couple of inches shorter
in both dimensions than Toyota's RAV4 Prime. Hornet R/T's
APPLICATIONS
ADHESIVES for
SENSOR
Select compounds offer:
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
Up to 6.5 W/( m*K)
ELECTRICAL INSULATION
Volume resistivity >1014
14
ohm-cm
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY
Volume resistivity <0.001 ohm-cm
SENSOR
APPLICATIONS
EPOXIES & SILICONES
EPOXIES & SILICONES
Underhood of the 2024 Hornet R/T plug-in hybrid, with space occupied
mostly by the 1.3L 4-cyl. engine.
6.1 in. (155 mm) of ground clearance means offroad excursions
probably should be well-planned.
But the Hornet's slightly tighter dimensions make themselves
apparent when driving briskly - or when parking,
where its sculpted and low roofline take a toll on cargo
space when compared to blockier competitors.
Interior trim and materials for even the Hornet GT have
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14 May 2023
appearance and feel appropriate to the SUV's just-lessthan-$30,000
starting price. Particularly impressive is the
crispness and clarity of the standard 12.3-in. digital display
for the gauge cluster. The accompanying 10.25-inch center
display features the fifth generation of the company's excellent
Uconnect user interface.
Other cabin standouts included the grippy material covering
the perfectly-shaped steering wheel and exceptionally
supportive seats, even in the base GT trim. Typical for the
segment, however, are rear seats without much shape and
merely adequate legroom that also might by a symptom of
the Hornet's tighter exterior dimensions.
The Hornet's assembly plant is in Pomigliano d'Arco,
Naples, Italy. Perhaps owing to distance considerations, initial
GTs on sale in early spring are designated as 2023 model-year
vehicles, while the R/Ts said to be available in showrooms in
late spring are 2024 models.
Bill Visnic
AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING
SAE MEDIA/BILL VISNIC
http://info.hotims.com/84494-708
Automotive Engineering - May 2023

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