Hornet vs CX-50
Dodge versus Mazda: the Hornet and the CX-50 go after the same compact suv buyer. Think of these two as neighbors: the overlap is large and the gaps are few.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Hornet wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.3
- Engine & Performance0.3
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
Not a close call. The Hornet lists 268 hp and the CX-50 lists 187 hp. That’s a substantial gap. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The Hornet has 109 lb-ft more torque
Among all the differences on this page, 295 lb-ft against 186 lb-ft is one of the most meaningful, and it favors the Hornet. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
Engine & Performance
Hornet leads
For engine & performance, the verdict is easy: the Hornet leads, and not by a little. The Hornet gives you 81 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. The engine & performance verdict goes to the Hornet.
Total system output
Hornet: 268 hp CX-50: 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 CX-50: 186 lb-ft The Hornet’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The space & practicality specs are close enough that neither gets the point. The space & practicality verdict: no winner, and no reason to worry either way.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Side by side, the off-road & towing figures for the Hornet and the CX-50 barely differ. So off-road & towing is a non-factor here; move on to the areas where they actually differ.
Safety & Tech
The Hornet and the CX-50 differ on safety & tech in ways that are described rather than measured. The table has the details.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Total system output | 268 hp (winner) | 187 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft (winner) | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 2,000 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | N/A (not specified) |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Hornet | CX-50 |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 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 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 186 lb-ft of torque)
- you prefer staying with Dodge
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Hornet or the CX-50?
On the specs compared here, the Hornet makes more sense for most buyers; the CX-50 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
I don’t have a favorite brand in this fight between the Hornet and the CX-50. I just have opinions about the numbers. The Hornet wins me over with 81 hp more power.
A quick self-test: do you care more about engine & performance or the things a spec sheet can’t capture? The first answer means the Hornet, the second means the CX-50.
My pick: the Hornet.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.