As expected, the Dodge Hornet Concept, DaimlerChrysler’s foray into the rapidly growing B-segment market created a big buzz in its world premiere at the ongoing 2006 Geneva International Auto Show. Featuring a brash, rally inspired look reminiscent of the Scion xB, MINI Cooper and Suzuki Swift, the Dodge Hornet Concept will certainly appeal to European sensibilities regarding size and engine power and the American predilection for an aggressive, youthful stance and versatile interior space.
Unlike other B-segment cars that offer friendly and even “cutesy†looks, the Hornet concept does look ready to sting with its aggressive styling: tall, boxy shape with 19-inch wheels pushed out to its far corners, signature Dodge crosshair grille, muscular profile with sculpted fenders and arching wheel flares. The Hornet also ups the coolness factor with its “Blue View†tinted windows contrasting with the Liquid Silver paint. Stark, beryllium gray “skunk stripes†inspired by the iconic Dodge Viper crosses the hood, roof and overhanging rear defuser wings. The Hornet concept will also be offered in a spectrum of paint and window color schemes.
Under the hood, a 1.6L 16 valve OHC supercharged I/C 4-cylinder engine produces 170 hp and 165 lb.-ft of torque at 4000rpm. The Hornet can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 second and can reach 130mph, much like the MINI Cooper. The Hornet concept’s interior is sporty and flexible with space-saving foam seats, modular instrument panel, and three-circle six gauge delta shaped instrument panel. In a predominantly black and slate gray color scheme, the Hornet interior is designed to offer both style and utility and is surprisingly very spacious (the Dodge Hornet Concept is almost as wide as a C-segment vehicle).
“We wanted the Hornet to be dynamic, nimble, fun to drive, and have an adaptable space-efficient interior, at the same time we set out to create a vehicle with a uniquely American character to expand the image and presence of the Dodge brand in Europe and international markets, especially in the entry-level market” explained Mark Moushegian, Principal Exterior Designer. For now, the Hornet is nothing but a concept vehicle, but considering the largely positive response for this stinger, we may eventually see lots of Hornets buzzing around. Estimated sticker price for the Hornet is expected to be below the Dodge Caliber, which is priced at $13,985.
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