Trump Terminates the Dodge Hornet, Preserves the Hemi V8 Engine
The American automaker Dodge has announced significant changes in its lineup for the 2026 model year. The most notable decision is the discontinuation of the Dodge Hornet, a compact SUV, due to a combination of factors including sales performance and tariffs.
In a move to reconnect with enthusiasts who have been turned off by engine downsizing and the launch of the all-electric Charger Daytona muscle car, Dodge has decided to commit to gas-guzzling V8s. As a result, all Durango models will come standard with the Dodge Hemi V8 in 360 hp and 475 hp variations, and the Durango SRT Hellcat will continue with its 710 hp, 6.2-liter supercharged V8.
Industry experts believe it's only a matter of time before the new Charger receives the Hemi V8 powerplant it is expected to have. However, Dodge has not yet confirmed whether the latest Charger will get a Hemi V8 engine.
The decision not to produce the Dodge Hornet in the USA for the year 2026 is made by Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge. The company had planned to cut the price of the Hornet to around $30,000 to boost sales, but the tariffs made this unfeasible.
Dodge sold over 20,000 Hornets in the United States last year, and its absence will impact the company's total sales numbers. Currently, the Hornet is available in fewer than 3,000 units on dealership lots across the country. Despite this, dealers do not express upset about the potential discontinuation of the Dodge Hornet.
The Dodge Hornet did not meet sales expectations, and a Dodge dealer in Seattle comments that selling Italian vehicles in the United States has been a challenge due to frequent quality concerns from owners regarding the Hornet. Dodge had been assembling the Hornet at Stellantis' Naples, Italy plant alongside the Alfa Romeo Tonale.
Tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have caused Dodge to pause production of the Hornet. In an attempt to avoid further losses, Dodge rushed to import all remaining 2025 Hornets before tariffs increased this spring. If tariffs do not change, it is unlikely that the Dodge Hornet will be available in the 2026 model year.
Stellantis is focusing on performance roots and making V8 engines more widely available. This shift towards V8 power options is part of a larger strategy to appeal to Dodge's core audience and maintain its reputation as a performance-oriented brand.
