Trump Has Undermined the Dodge Hornet, Yet Preserved the Hemi V8 | Carscoops

      Last year, Dodge sold approximately 20,500 Hornets in the United States.

      As of August 30, 2025, there are fewer than 3,000 Dodge Hornets remaining on dealership lots throughout the United States.

      Production of the Hornet has been halted due to tariffs imposed by President Trump.

      For the new model year, the Durango lineup will exclusively feature V8 power options.

      The future of the Dodge Hornet appears uncertain, as trade tariffs set by President Donald Trump may lead to an early discontinuation of this compact SUV. Although the model had potential and Dodge hoped it would achieve significant sales, it ultimately fell short of expectations.

      Instead of lamenting the loss, Stellantis seems poised to strengthen its focus on performance, taking advantage of loosened emissions regulations to make V8 engines more widely accessible.

      According to Dodge CEO Matt McAlear, the company had been producing the Hornet at Stellantis’ plant in Naples, Italy, alongside the similar Alfa Romeo Tonale, but production has now been indefinitely suspended due to Trump's tariffs. Dodge expedited the import of the remaining 2025 Hornets before the implementation of the 27.5 percent tariffs this spring. Currently, there are fewer than 3,000 Hornets on dealership lots, which are likely to sell out before the year ends.

      Tariffs Have an Impact

      In a conversation with The Detroit News, McAlear mentioned that Dodge aimed to boost Hornet sales by lowering its price to around $30,000, but then the tariffs were enacted. He stated that “if the tariffs don’t change, then there won’t be a ’26 model year.”

      Dealers don’t seem displeased with the Hornet's impending exit. One Seattle-based dealer remarked, “The Italians trying to sell Italian vehicles in the United States has just been a big miss,” pointing out the frequent quality issues reported by owners.

      Returning to Muscle

      Last year, Dodge sold over 20,000 Hornets in the U.S., so losing this model will affect the company’s overall sales figures. However, by recommitting to high-performance V8 engines, it can reconnect with enthusiasts who have been alienated by engine downsizing and the introduction of the all-electric Charger Daytona muscle car.

      For the 2026 model year, all Durango variants will come with the brand’s Hemi V8, offering options of 360 hp and 475 hp. Moreover, the Durango SRT Hellcat will continue to feature its impressive 710 hp, 6.2-liter supercharged V8.

      Charger Rumors Intensify

      Perhaps even more thrilling than the Durango's full V8 commitment is the speculation that the new Charger could be updated to include a Hemi V8. While Dodge has not yet confirmed this development, industry experts believe it’s only a matter of time before the latest version of the muscle car receives the eight-cylinder engine it rightfully deserves.