Hornet vs Tucson
The Hornet and the Tucson sit in the same compact suv class, but Dodge and Hyundai don’t always agree on what matters most. Lay the spec sheets side by side and you’ll see more overlap than contrast.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Hornet wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.3
- Off-road & Towing4.5
- Engine & Performance0.3
- Off-road & Towing4.5
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The Hornet has 81 hp more power
On total system output, the Hornet posts 268 hp against 187 hp for the Tucson, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
-
The Hornet has 117 lb-ft more torque
This is one of the widest gaps in the whole comparison: 295 lb-ft for the Hornet versus 178 lb-ft for the Tucson. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Hornet leads
The Hornet is the clear pick if engine & performance is what you care about most. On its side, the Hornet has 81 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. In short, the Hornet is the better-equipped car for engine & performance.
Total system output
Hornet: 268 hp Tucson: 187 hp The Hornet’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
Hornet: 295 lb-ft Tucson: 178 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The Hornet and the Tucson match each other closely in this area. So space & practicality is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
This area ends level; whatever separates these two, it isn’t off-road & towing. The off-road & towing verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Safety & Tech
Nothing to tally in the safety & tech section, but plenty to read. The table lists what the Hornet and the Tucson each use.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Hornet | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Total system output | 268 hp (winner) | 187 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Hornet | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 24 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 21 mpg Thirstiest in the city | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 29 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Hornet | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Hornet | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 2,000 lb | 2,000 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Hornet | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | N/A (not specified) |
| Driver-assist suite | N/A (not specified) | Hyundai SmartSense |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Hornet if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (268 hp vs 187 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft of torque)
- you prefer staying with Dodge
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Hornet or the Tucson?
On the specs compared here, the Hornet makes more sense for most buyers; the Tucson doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Brand loyalty aside, I tried to judge the Hornet and the Tucson purely on what they offer. I keep coming back to one thing: the Hornet gets 81 hp more power.
In my head, the Hornet is the engine & performance pick and the Tucson is the the things a spec sheet can’t capture pick.
My pick: the Hornet.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.