Hornet vs EV6
Both the Hornet and the EV6 sit in the compact suv class, and Dodge and Kia are clearly watching each other. On paper, these two are close. Only a handful of specs separate them by a margin you’d actually notice.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Hornet wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.3
- Engine & Performance0.8
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 101 hp more power
Of all the specs we compared, this is one where the Hornet makes its strongest case: 268 hp against 167 hp. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The Hornet has 37 lb-ft more torque
On torque, the Hornet edges out the EV6, 295 lb-ft to 258 lb-ft. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.4 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 60.8 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 114.2 in |
Engine & Performance
Hornet leads
The Hornet is the clear pick if engine & performance is what you care about most. The Hornet scores with 101 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. Weighing only engine & performance, the Hornet comes out ahead.
Total system output
Hornet: 268 hp EV6: 167 hp The Hornet’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
Hornet: 295 lb-ft EV6: 258 lb-ft The Hornet’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
This area ends level; whatever separates these two, it isn’t space & practicality. So space & practicality is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The Hornet and the EV6 match each other closely in this area. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the Hornet and the EV6 differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Battery electric |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | Single motor (rear) |
| Total system output | 268 hp (winner) | 167 hp Least powerful in class |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD (AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| 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) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 237 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 24.4 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 50.2 cu ft Least room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 2,000 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Largest touchscreen | N/A (not specified) | 12.3 in |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | N/A (not specified) |
| Driver-assist suite | N/A (not specified) | Kia Drive Wise |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Hornet | EV6 |
|---|---|---|
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 74.4 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 60.8 in |
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 114.2 in |
“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 want more power (268 hp vs 167 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (295 lb-ft vs 258 lb-ft of torque)
- you already use other Dodge products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Hornet or the EV6?
On the specs compared here, the Hornet makes more sense for most buyers; the EV6 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Here’s my honest read on a classic rivalry: Dodge’s Hornet against Kia’s EV6. Practically speaking, the Hornet’s biggest advantage is 101 hp more power.
The Hornet is for you if engine & performance tops your list; the EV6 is for you if the things a spec sheet can’t capture does.
My pick: the Hornet.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.