Speed Comparison: 2025 Dodge Hellcat vs Hornet
Can a compact crossover really hold its own against a supercharged muscle car? That’s the question we hear a lot around Willoughby, especially when drivers start comparing the 2025 Dodge Hornet to the legendary Hellcat. It’s a fun conversation—but let’s be honest: one of these is built for blistering acceleration, and the other is built for practical performance with a sporty edge. That said, both bring something worthwhile to the table. So, which one’s faster?
2025 Dodge Hornet: Quick, Sharp, and Built for Real Life
The Hornet GT brings a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. That translates to a 0–60 time of about 6.5 seconds, which is impressive for a compact SUV. The R/T plug-in hybrid takes it up a notch with 288 combined horsepower thanks to its electric assist system. You’ll feel that boost off the line, especially in Sport mode.
What the Hornet lacks in raw speed, it makes up for in everyday drivability. It’s agile, comfortable, tech-savvy, and fuel-conscious. For drivers in Cleveland who want an efficient commuter with some punch, the Hornet delivers. But let’s be clear—it’s not chasing lap times.
2025 Dodge Hellcat: A Street-Legal Rocket
The standard Hellcat—available in Charger or Challenger form—comes loaded with a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 that makes 717 horsepower and 656 lb-ft of torque. The Redeye variant jumps to 797 horsepower, and if you’re lucky enough to find a Jailbreak model? You’re pushing 807 hp.
The result is a 0–60 sprint in about 3.4 seconds and a top speed creeping toward 200 mph. The Hellcat isn’t just fast—it’s wild. Throttle response is immediate. The power curve is relentless. And the sound? Thunderous. It’s not subtle. It’s not trying to be.
So, Which One’s Faster?
It’s no contest. The Hellcat dominates the Hornet in every performance metric:
- 0–60:Hellcat ~3.4 seconds | Hornet ~6.5 seconds.
- Horsepower:Hellcat 717–807 hp | Hornet 268–288 hp.
- Top Speed:Hellcat ~200 mph | Hornet significantly lower (not published, but not close).
But that doesn’t mean the Hornet “loses.” It’s just playing a different game. The Hellcat is built for the enthusiast. If you’re looking for speed, sound, and a driving experience that pins you to the seat, there’s nothing quite like it—especially with the kind of wide-open road you’ll find just outside Willoughby.
The Hornet, on the other hand, offers usable speed in a smaller footprint. It’s ideal for daily driving, weekend getaways, and traversing crowded downtown Cleveland, OH streets with a bit of extra attitude. Plus, with the R/T’s electric assist, you’re getting performance and efficiency in one.
Experience Raw Dodge Power—Find Your Perfect Match at CDJR of Willoughby Today
If your goal is sheer speed, the Hellcat wins every time. That’s what it’s built for. But if you want a performance-minded vehicle that’s easier to live with—one that won’t demand premium gas at every turn or scream down the block at idle—the Hornet is a sharp, capable, and confident choice.
Still not sure which one’s right for you? Stop by CDJR of Willoughby or call us at (440) 201-9940 and compare them side by side. One might surprise you—and the other will leave your jaw on the pavement. And in the meantime, feel free to view our latest inventory online!