Dodge’s small-car history goes all the way back to the 1960s with the A-body-based Lancer, which was quickly replaced by the legendary Dart in 1963. Later down the line, Dodge’s compact car portfolio gave us ‘80s icons like the Omni GLHS and the L-body-based Dodge Shelby Charger. There are also noteworthy products like Dodge’s Neon that helped shape the ‘90s. Despite success through the ages, Dodge abandoned the compact car with the demise of its Dart in 2016. Though, Dodge is rentering the small-car field with its compact crossover Hornet. Sharing its platform with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the Hornet is adding a new entry point for Dodge shoppers, and expanding Dodge’s reach as a company.

On this episode of Quick Spin, Autoweek’s Patrick Carone hops behind the wheel of the 2023 Dodge Hornet GT and takes you along for the ride. Carone takes you on a guided tour of the Dodge Hornet and highlights some of his favorite features. Later, Carone takes you on a live drive review of the ’23 Dodge Hornet. In between, Carone chats with host Wesley Wren about the Hornet. The pair talk about Dodge’s history with compact cars, the Hornet name, and the car’s relation to the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Closing the show, the pair breakdown what makes the Hornet special.