2024 Dodge Hornet vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX presented a commanding presence with its massive spindle grille and 206 millimetres of ground clearance, standing tall at 1,885 millimetres. Its front end appeared ready to conquer the road, framed by large headlights that accentuated its distinctive face. The GX Black Line Special Edition, limited to 3,000 units, returned with new paint options, including Eminent White Pearl. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to navigate technical driving scenarios. However, the interior's excessive plastic detracted from its luxury appeal, though it still offered features like heated and cooled seats and impressive leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2024 Dodge Hornet, while not a traditional muscle car, retained Dodge's distinctive styling with a muscular front end and integrated heat extractors on the hood. The Hornet's grille featured a new Rhombi logo, and its tail lamp extended across the width of the crossover, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. Built alongside the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the Hornet shared visual similarities but maintained classic Dodge design elements. The interior, influenced by its Italian sibling, offered a modern feel with Alcantara upholstery and a driver-focused centre stack. Despite some outdated buttons, the Hornet's interior was sporty and well-equipped, appealing to those seeking a blend of style and performance.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. However, its fuel economy was less appealing, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 14.5 combined. The GX's 2,948-kilogram towing capacity was respectable, but it lagged behind other SUVs. Despite its weight, the GX offered predictable handling, aided by a Torsen limited-slip differential and a 4WD system adaptable to various conditions.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet offered diverse powertrains, with the GT featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The R/T, a plug-in hybrid, combined a 1.3-litre turbo engine with a 15.5-kWh battery, delivering 288 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The R/T's electric AWD system and Brembo brakes enhanced its performance, while the Powershot feature provided an extra 30 horsepower for short bursts. Despite its weight, the Hornet R/T was quick and agile, with a Sport mode and a 53-kilometre all-electric range. Fuel economy for the R/T was impressive, with a 3.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample cubby space, with a deep centre console bin and convenient cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, relying on older USB-A ports. The GX's hard buttons were a blessing for those averse to touchscreens, though their abundance required familiarization. The second row provided comfort, with captain's chairs and good legroom, but the third row was too tight for regular use. Cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet prioritized front passenger comfort, offering good headroom and visibility. However, the rear seat felt cramped due to the high beltline and dark interior. The R/T's PHEV battery reduced cargo capacity, with 648 litres behind the rear seat and 1,430 litres with it folded. The GT trims offered slightly more space, but both fell short of competitors like the Hyundai Tucson PHEV.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an improvement over its predecessor but still lagging behind newer Lexus models. It included standard features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. The GX's off-road capabilities were impressive, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor. However, its infotainment technology felt dated compared to competitors.

The 2024 Dodge Hornet boasted a best-in-class 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Operating on UConnect 5, the system was user-friendly and customizable, though it occasionally experienced slow response times. Standard features included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a premium audio system, and a wireless phone charger. The Hornet's tech system was easy to personalize, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations, but it included a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control were standard, ensuring a safer driving experience despite its older design.

Similarly, the 2024 Dodge Hornet had not been evaluated by safety organizations, but it offered an impressive array of standard ADAS features. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Tech Pack added level 2 autonomous driving functions, enhancing safety and convenience.