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The Buzz about the 2006 Dodge Hornet |
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Monday, 29 January 2007
Written by Tim Beggs
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With the success of multiple vehicles this year, Daimler-Chrylser is planning to tackle the sub-compact arena as well. The new Dodge Hornet will take on competitors such as Toyota, Scion, and Chevy (the Aveo). This all-new hatchback appears to be a forward-leaning blend between a MINI and the existing Scion xB—a decent seller amongst the younger audiences in the driving world.
The new styling of the Hornet show that Dodge does have experience in proving it can make a proper move with the “in your face” grille on the Hornet, which is also seen on the Nitro and Caliber. The Hornet’s small size inherits a wide variety of design cues from its relatives in the Dodge lineup, indeed; even the Ram serves as inspiration in the Hornet’s layout.
Specifics in the appearance are: flared fenders, a sport hood (bearing view to the intercooler), gold-colored brake calipers, a panoramic sunroof (tinted blue), Beryllium Gray paint, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
While the Hornet is not made for the quarter mile drag, it will take the lead as highest-powered in its class. The 1.6-liter OHC is supercharged to achieve 170hp and 165lb-ft. While the source of this little powerplant is not know directly, it’s assumed it is inherited from the MINI Cooper S. The force-fed 1.6-liter scoots the Hornet to 60mph in 6.6 seconds with a top speed of 130mph. |
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