Dodge Hornet Track Pack vs. GT Plus: Is the Performance Upgrade Worth It?
You’ve been eyeing the new Dodge Hornet, that stylish small SUV with a bite, and now you’re staring at the window sticker trying to decide—do you check the box for the Track Pack, or is the GT Plus already everything you need for your daily drive?
TL;DR
The Track Pack is Dodge’s factory performance upgrade for the Hornet GT Plus. For around $2,500 to $3,000, it transforms the look and feel of the car with 20-inch wheels, red Brembo brake calipers, a dual-mode suspension, and sporty Alcantara seats . While the engine remains the same powerful 268-horsepower turbo-four, the adjustable suspension makes a noticeable difference in how the car handles . Whether the Track Pack is worth it depends on what you want from your Hornet. If you’re chasing a sharper, more engaging driving experience and love the aggressive look, it’s a great upgrade. If you prioritize ride comfort or a lower price tag, the GT Plus is still a fantastic compact SUV without it.
What the Track Pack Adds
The Hornet Track Pack is more than just a sticker—it brings significant hardware and styling changes:
- Larger Wheels: You get 20-inch Abyss finish aluminum wheels with 235/40R20 all-season tires .
- Better Stopping Power: The package includes red Brembo brake calipers .
- Adjustable Suspension: A dual-mode suspension is added, which is the biggest performance upgrade. It adjusts the dampers for a stiffer or softer ride .
- Sportier Interior: The cabin gets a sporty feel with Alcantara sport seats (with red stitching on some models), bright pedals, and a sport leather steering wheel .
- More Aggressive Look: The package also adds steel door sills and can be bundled with the Blacktop package for even more dark styling accents .
The GT Plus Baseline
Before you decide, it’s important to know what you’re starting with. The 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus is already a strong performer. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (the “Hurricane” engine) producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive . It comes well-equipped with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a large 10.25-inch touchscreen . Its 0-60 mph time is a quick 5.6 seconds, putting it ahead of many competitors in its class .
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
So, is the Track Pack worth the investment? Here’s the breakdown:
Yes, if you want the full performance experience:
- You’ll feel the difference: The dual-mode suspension is the star of the show. It allows you to switch between a comfortable daily driver and a more aggressive, sporty ride at the push of a button . This is the single biggest reason to get the Track Pack.
- The look is more aggressive: The larger wheels, red Brembo calipers, and sporty interior create a more special and menacing look that sets the car apart .
- It’s a bargain: For under $3,000, you’re getting a significant package of performance and aesthetic upgrades that would cost much more to add separately .
No, if you prioritize comfort and value:
- The ride is firmer: The dual-mode suspension, especially with the 20-inch wheels, can make the ride stiffer. The GT Plus without the Track Pack offers a more forgiving ride for daily commutes .
- You can skip the styling: If you prefer a more subtle look or don’t care about the red calipers and sport seats, you can save the money and put it towards other options like the Tech Pack for more driver-assistance features.
- It doesn’t add power: The engine and drivetrain are identical to the base GT Plus. The Track Pack is all about handling and style, not straight-line speed.
Comparison Table: GT Plus vs. GT Plus with Track Pack
| Feature | 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus | 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus with Track Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I-4 (268 hp) | 2.0L Turbo I-4 (268 hp) |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | AWD | AWD |
| Wheels | 17″ or 18″ Alloy | 20″ Abyss Finish Alloy |
| Tires | P215/60R17 | 235/40R20 All-Season |
| Brakes | Standard | Red Brembo Calipers |
| Suspension | Standard | Dual-Mode (Adjustable) |
| Seats | Cloth/Leatherette | Alcantara Sport Seats |
| Steering Wheel | Standard | Sport Leather |
The Bottom Line
The Dodge Hornet GT Plus is a fantastic compact SUV right out of the box. However, the Track Pack is a compelling upgrade that genuinely enhances the driving experience and visual attitude. It’s not just about looking fast—the dual-mode suspension lets you genuinely feel the difference. While the base GT Plus is an excellent vehicle, the Track Pack takes it from a great daily driver to a legitimate performance contender, making the $2,500-$3,000 price tag a worthy investment for any driving enthusiast .
References
Dodge Hornet Track Pack and GT Plus Resources:
- 2024 Dodge Hornet GT Plus Specifications – Cars.com
- 2025 Dodge Hornet Build and Price – Dodge Canada
- Official Dodge Hornet Information
- AAA Car Guide – 2024 Dodge Hornet R/T Plus
Have you driven a Dodge Hornet with and without the Track Pack? What was your verdict? Share your thoughts in the comments!
What’s your priority for a hot CUV—performance upgrades like the Track Pack, or tech features like the Tech Pack? Drop your thoughts below!
