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Brian Gillen Joins Norton Motorcycles As Chief Technology Officer

Norton Motorcycles has been making headlines lately due to its now-parent firm TVS Motor Company, one of many largest motorbike producers in India. We lately talked about TVS’ plans of bolstering Norton’s motorbike lineup with contemporary new fashions. While these new fashions aren’t anticipated for launch till 2026, it’s clear that Norton’s been taking some steps in the proper route.

On February 6, 2024, it was introduced that Norton Motorcycles had appointed Brian Gillen as its new Chief Technology Officer. For reference, Gillen beforehand served because the R&D director of MV Agusta, and was liable for among the model’s most groundbreaking fashions. These embrace the MV Agusta LXP Orioli and even the rumored Superveloce 1000 we talked about not too way back. With such achievements beneath his belt, it’s clear that Gillen has his work lower out for him, as Norton Motorcycles enters its growth section.

MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 - Front, Left

Brian Gillen was reponsible for the likes of the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000. 

As we mentioned beforehand, Norton will likely be taking a three-pronged strategy in relation to its revitalized marketing strategy: repair, construct, and fly. The first step will likely be fixing the problems with the model’s present lineup, adopted by increasing its dealership community. In whole, it was estimated that the initiative would take between 24 to 40 months, as defined by Norton CEO Dr. Robert Hentschel. Clearly, Brian Gillen performs a pivotal position in all of this, as his job will contain the event of the model’s next-generation fashions, which can greater than possible embrace each electrical and internal-combustion fashions.

Apart from increasing its current mannequin vary, Norton Motorcycles can also be eyeing international growth. This implies that its fashions should conform to the various laws and security requirements current in a number of markets – a accountability that seems to suit Brian Gillen’s new job description. With all that being stated, Dr. Hentschel has utmost confidence in Gillen’s talents. ““Brian comes with very rich experience and expertise in engine and vehicle design, emerging technologies, and connectivity,” he acknowledged.

Norton Commando 961

Norton is hoping to increase its mannequin vary by 2026.

Commenting on his new position at Norton Motorcycles, Gillen stated that he appears ahead to creating premium bikes bearing the enduring Norton badge. “I am looking forward to work with the talented team of engineers and develop cutting-edge, premium motorcycles, with quality at the forefront of everything we do.”

It’s clear that the administration of Norton Motorcycles is taking huge steps to make sure that the corporate is ready to construct a stronger presence and launch higher fashions out there. As for what precisely Norton has in retailer, nicely, your guess is pretty much as good as ours. That being stated, Norton presently has three bikes in its repertoire – all of which occupying the premium phase. These encompass the Commando 961, V4SV, and V4CR.

Hero MotoCorp Trademarks Mavrick And Hurikan 440 In India

Hero MotorCorp not too long ago made international headlines due to its collaboration with Harley-Davidson. Although launched completely for the Indian market, the Harley-Davidson X440 stirred international curiosity, as a number of folks, significantly within the Asian market, discovered curiosity in a small-displacement, Harley-branded roadster.

Like most joint-ventures, Hero and Harley’s collab would ultimately end in two bikes that share practically equivalent structure, albeit branded and styled barely in another way. We’ve seen it with the likes of TVS Motor Company and BMW, with the TVS Apache 310 RTR mirroring the specs of its BMW counterpart the G 310 R. Now, the identical is seemingly changing into true with Hero MotoCorp, because it not too long ago filed logos for its extremely anticipated 440cc bike, modeled after the Harley X440.

 

Hero’s trademark filings on India’s mental property workplace reveal not one, however two logos, every bearing the 440 moniker on the finish: Maverick 440 and Hurikan 440. When translated to English, Maverick clearly means Maverick, and Hurikan means Hurricane – does this imply that Hero is launching two iterations of the 440 roadster?

Whatever the case could also be, it seems like we gained’t want to attend that lengthy, as Hero MotoCorp is anticipated to formally launch its new mannequin on January 22, 2024, within the Hero World occasion in Jaipur. To add to this, Hero’s clearly been increase the hype for the launch of its new fashions by posting teasers on social media highlighting the bike’s exhaust be aware which is clearly a mid-size thumper identical to that of the Harley X440.

 

We’ve ran by means of the specs and particulars of the Harley-Davidson X440 in nice element prior to now, and likelihood is Hero’s new Mavrick or Hurikan 440 will function practically equivalent specs. Chances are that the bike will even tackle a retro-inspired look, and go head-to-head with different fashionable retro roadster akin to Royal Enfield’s 350 sequence, the Benelli Imperiale 400, Honda CB350, and sure, even the Harley X440 – who doesn’t love a bit of sibling rivalry?

For reference, the Harley-Davidson X440 begins at Rs 239,000, which interprets to roughly $2,875 USD. Sources counsel that Hero’s model of this bike may go for a extra reasonably priced, budget-focused strategy, with the mannequin anticipated to hold a aggressive price ticket of round Rs 200,000, or about $2,400 USD. Now, 400 bucks might not seem to be a lot, however bear in mind, India’s a particularly price-sensitive market, and folk are all the time trying to get the perfect deal.

The Real Takeaway From The Unofficial Tesla Cybertruck Crash Testing

With the new Cybertruck hitting the streets and making headlines, it is value mentioning its crash and security efficiency (or lack thereof). There was a video proven formally by the model throughout an X Tesla Cybertruck crash check occasion, though it did not present the aftermath. Through leaked movies on the web, we’re capable of see how properly this huge spaceship-looking EV handles front-end crashing. With Tesla normally being on the safer side in its SUVs and sedans, it is value noting that between entrance and aspect testing, the crash aftermath appears to be like about as brutal for the individuals inside because it does the glossy metal body of Cybertruck.

One principal trigger for concern with Cybertruck, nevertheless, has been its stainless-steel physique. When crashing, this physique would not fold or snap the identical method one would on an atypical truck or SUV, which resulted in even the rear axle of Cybertruck snapping throughout a FRONT finish check. You learn that accurately. The again part of the Cybertruck blew proper off, and the aspect crash testing wasn’t any extra favorable.

Overall, this *unofficial* crash testing has proven us the Cybertruck will not be indestructible like we initially have been instructed to imagine. So, here is what the crash check outcomes really imply for the Cybertruck house owners.

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The detailed report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveils essential insights into the extremely anticipated Cybertruck.

In order to provide the most modern and correct info potential, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Tesla and different authoritative sources, together with the NHTSA and Road and Track.

Here’s What The Crash Test Shows Us

  • An unofficial video of the Tesla Cybertruck crash check has proven the truck dealing with entrance and aspect accident injury marginally properly.
  • Rear injury will be seen even throughout a front-end collision with Cybertruck.

Although Tesla did technically publish a crash check video of its new Cybertruck on X, this did not present what really occurred after impression. Recently, the *unofficial* crash testing movies have been launched/leaked to the web, sending everybody right into a panic. That’s due to the considerably surprising front-end crash outcomes, with the Cybertruck solely touring a mere 35 miles per hour right into a wall. During the check, we see Cybertruck buckle within the entrance, as well as the rear axle blow clean off.

This is not what we wished to occur, particularly contemplating the sheer dimension and promoting Cybertruck has seen as being among the finest choices for drivers. Even through the 38-mile aspect crash check, we noticed excessive buckling and injury to the metal body/physique, which isn’t superb information for house owners.

Crash Testing Doesn’t Always Give Us A Perfect Perspective

One of the primary issues to recollect when watching a crash check video is that though these are made to provide automakers a greater thought of how secure (or unsafe) their mannequin is, these checks typically exacerbate the state of affairs. In Cybertruck’s case, nevertheless, you see a reasonably important quantity of harm for not going that quick whereas hitting a wall, main many people to surprise how secure this is able to be within the occasion of an actual accident.

The Cybertruck weighs over 6,500 pounds and boasts a stainless steel body, which to many individuals, is why it performs poorly throughout crash testing. It’s heavy and, fairly frankly, a reasonably fragile mannequin that appears scarier than it’s.

  • Tesla Cybertruck weight: 6,603 to six,843 kilos.

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Cool Details About The Tesla Cybertruck You Might’ve Missed

The Cybertruck boasts hidden gems past its eye-catching exterior and efficiency specs from a self-cleaning digital camera to an expandable mattress.

Cybertruck’s Stainless Steel Body May Not Be Helpful In Crashes

Tesla Cybertruck
Tesla 
  • Tesla Cybertruck makes use of a chrome steel materials for its exoskeleton.
  • During the Tesla Cybertruck crash check, we see this materials reply aggressively to impression.

One of the primary issues we observed through the Tesla crash video is how reactive the stainless-steel materials is when put below immense stress. In an accident, most fashions have “buckle zones,” which basically pancake round a stronger body to maintain individuals inside alive. In Cybertruck, the entrance caves in, the again jolts fairly a bit, and items of the pickup truck go flying in all instructions: And that is solely hitting one thing head-on going below 40 MPH.

The aspect collision a part of the video additionally exhibits the doorways and body of Cybertruck buckle below stress, which for such an enormous truck, shouldn’t be the case. Stainless metal, though fairly to have a look at, will not be superb for crash-safe manufacturing.

Per Tesla, the Cybertruck makes use of “an exterior shell made for ultimate durability and passenger safety. Starting with an almost impenetrable exoskeleton, each part is designed for superior power and endurance, from Ultra-Hard 30X Cold-Rolled stainless-steel structural pores and skin to Tesla armor glass.”

Related

10 Interesting Accessories That You Should Get For Your Tesla Cybertruck

The all-new Tesla Cybertruck comes with loads of elective upgrades, and here’s a checklist of the ten most attention-grabbing official equipment.

Most Pickup Trucks Don’t Perform Well In Crash Testing

  • Most pickup truck fashions aren’t as secure as individuals imagine.
  • In collisions, these driving pickup fashions have a 23 p.c larger fatality fee than these driving common passenger autos.

Before even persevering with to say how lackluster the Tesla Cybertruck crash check was, pickup vehicles aren’t recognized to be as secure as you’d assume. A considerably morbid truth about driving pickup vehicles is that in crashes, there is a 23-percent higher fatality rate amongst these in vehicles versus commonplace passenger autos. Very few pickup fashions earn NHTSA Safety Pick titles due to their fragile designs.

With the Cybertruck being nearer to a street-legal tank above all else, you need to bear in mind it is not essentially constructed to be as secure as your common household SUV. Much of Cybertruck’s allure is that it’s large, boisterous, and able to tackle each terrain. That stated, even throughout off-road testing, this pickup truck has not done seemingly well, which places loads of doubt into individuals’s minds when debating on buying one.

After all, you are spending $60,000+ for a Cybertruck. If it guarantees added security AND superb off-roading, and neither is absolutely correct, what is the level of buying one? It’s cool to have a look at and enjoyable to drive, however for the hype it has been getting: Cybertruck must be a beast throughout all classes.

Most pickup truck fashions aren’t secure general in crash testing and barely obtain NHTSA Top Safety Pick titles. The method they’re made typically creates extra hazard on the time of collision. The Cybertruck is not essentially unsafe, but it surely’s not a car that’s essentially ‘ultra-safe’ both.

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Here’s Why The Tesla Model 3 Won’t Be Eligible For Tax Credits From 2024

The Model 3 Long Range and RWD variants will now not qualify for any portion of the $7,500. Our in-depth evaluation explains why.

Bigger May Not Always Be Better (Especially For Crash Testing)

Tesla Cybertruck aerial shot of the bed.
Tesla
  • Crash check outcomes from Cybertruck are inferior to we wished.
  • This mannequin is extra for appears to be like than precise sturdiness in time of collision.

What this unofficial Tesla Cybertruck crash test taught us is that though a car could feel and look intimidating, its crash testing can reveal main flaws in its design. With the Cybertruck, you see important injury in entrance and aspect crash checks, basically sending varied elements of the EV flying in all instructions at even a medium-pace collision. Cybertruck’s stainless-steel physique will be partially blamed for its aggressive response to crashing, though the mannequin should not be marketed as being a beast on and off-road if it is not in all regards.

There could also be different movies launched by Tesla and others to show this level proper or improper, however an important factor is that patrons are secure. For a $60,000 super-truck that the world has been waiting so long for, Cybertruck’s crash testing outcomes proved what we have all anxious about: It’s not an indestructible, untouchable car. Aesthetic-wise, it trumps the competitors, however in security, it actually doesn’t. Of course, the official crash and security ranking will quickly be accessible throughout varied web sites for everybody to dissect, so we’ll patiently await ultimate scores.

Onwards and upwards.

Land Announces District Second Production Run, Lowered Prices

Cleveland-based electric mobility specialist Land Moto garnered attention earlier in 2023 with the updated models of its District electric motorcycle. The company focuses on e-mobility with an emphasis on enjoyment and retro-inspired styling while keeping prices accessible. Land has now announced the second production run of the District with lowered prices.

Land Moto Goes Rugged With New District Scrambler Electric Bike

The District boasts an approachable design and respectable performance, weighing in at just 200 pounds, similar to a small dual-sport or scrambler. The battery provides a single-charge range of up to 120 miles and is swappable for convenient charging. Riders can select from three different modes with e-bike mode limiting speed to 25 miles per hour, e-moped mode raising it to 40 miles per hour, and e-motorcycle mode unlocking the motor’s top speed of 70 miles per hour. The bikes feature adjustable suspension and front and rear disc brakes for confident stops.

According to Scott Colosimo, the company’s founder and CEO, Land has managed to stabilize and scale production, allowing them to offer the District at lower prices. “Incoming investment has helped us stabilize and scale production and grow our sales network — and in turn, lower costs. When we prioritize in-house design and innovation, it’s a win for everyone — our customers, our investors and our team.”

Top 4-Wheeler Headlines Of The Week: Updates On Upcoming Cars, Global Unveilings, Spy Shots, And More


The headlines this week include new spy shots, while a couple of made in India SUVs have gone global

During the middle of November, there were updates on the Japan-spec Suzuki Swift, and Honda and Maruti launched their latest made-in-India SUVs abroad. In addition, a couple of fresh spy shots featuring an upcoming Mahindra pickup and Maruti’s first all-electric SUV were also seen. Several other events unfolded throughout the week; let’s have a look at all the important highlights.

Japan-spec Suzuki Swift Dimensions Out

2023 Suzuki Swift

The upcoming fourth-generation Suzuki Swift is longer than the current India-spec Maruti Swift. However, the wheelbase of the new Swift remains unchanged. The new-generation Swift is expected to be launched in India next year.

Update On Nissan Magnite AMT’s Prices

Nissan Magnite AMT

Introduced in October, the Nissan Magnite AMT is the most affordable automatic subcompact SUV in India. The introductory prices for the AMT variants of the Magnite will come to an end soon, as the automaker has announced that the Magnite AMT will become more expensive from next month onwards.

Rebadged Maruti Fronx Launch Update

Maruti Fronx-based Toyota's sub-4m crossover SUV

We are soon going to see another shared product between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota, in the form of a crossover SUV, which is none other than Toyota’s version of the Maruti Fronx. Our sources have hinted that this Toyota model is likely to be launched next year in the first quarter.

Honda Elevate Launched In Japan

Honda Elevate as the WR-V in Japan

The Honda Elevate was launched in India in September this year and has now gone global as the same SUV has been introduced in Japan as the WR-V. Although the Indian Honda Elevate looks identical to the Japan-spec Honda WR-V, there are a few minor differences in terms of features.

5-door Maruti Jimny Launched In South Africa

Suzuki Jimny 5-door

The 5-door version of the Maruti Jimny has now gone global as the SUV has been launched in South Africa. Maruti already produces export units of the 3-door version of the Jimny for international markets in India.

Spy Shots This Week

Mahindra Scorpio N Pickup Spied

This week’s spy shots feature two models, one from Mahindra and the other from Maruti. Mahindra’s Global Pik Up test mule was spotted testing for the first time, while new spy images of the Maruti eVX electric SUV have surfaced on the internet.

Volvo EM90 Electric MPV Global Debut

Volvo EM90 MPV front

Volvo has entered the luxury MPV space with an all-new electric MPV, the EM90 which made its global debut last week. The EM90 is expected to arrive in India by 2025.

Image Source

Why Hydrogen Cars Are The Next Wave Of Clean Mobility

Hydrogen is gaining attention as a renewable energy and fuel source in the automotive industry. The coming decade promises a variety of hydrogen-powered vehicles as an effort to decarbonize the global vehicle market.

Hydrogen fuel cells work by combining hydrogen with oxygen, creating a reaction that produces electricity. While hydrogen as a source of electricity is not new, it is now being explored for automotive applications.

Although the first hydrogen-powered vehicles appeared in the 1920s, it wasn’t until recently that the U.S. Department of Energy recognized hydrogen as a legitimate alternative fuel source. Since then, manufacturers have been integrating hydrogen-powered vehicles into their fleets to meet carbon-neutral goals.

While solar and wind power are already significant sources of renewable energy, hydrogen offers a unique opportunity to fill the gap in achieving a net-zero future. Hydrogen-powered cars produce zero emissions and have been anticipated for many years as a greener transportation option.

One of the challenges with hydrogen cars is the lack of refueling stations. Currently, there are only a limited number of hydrogen refueling stations, primarily located in California. However, as more hydrogen vehicles enter the market, the infrastructure is expected to catch up with demand.

Hydrogen cars offer advantages such as quick refueling times, similar to gas-powered cars. They also have no acceleration lag and can achieve impressive ranges of over 300 miles. As infrastructure expands and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles continue to improve, they have the potential to become a significant part of the automotive market alongside electric vehicles.

China is one of the countries leading the way in hydrogen adoption. As the largest producer of hydrogen and a prominent player in the electric vehicle market, China aims to have one million hydrogen-powered cars on the road by 2035.

Overall, hydrogen cars are gaining momentum as a clean and efficient alternative fuel source with the potential to play a significant role in the future of clean mobility.

Buell Super Cruiser Attracts More Than $100 Million In Pre-Orders

Buell Motorcycle Co. made headlines in early 2023 with the introduction of the Super Cruiser 1190, a special edition motorcycle developed in collaboration with renowned designer Roland Sands. The bike was unveiled in February, and Buell started accepting pre-orders shortly after. The response has been overwhelming, with Buell announcing an “unprecedented support” for its new model.

Buell has a reputation for producing high-performance motorcycles, as demonstrated by its successful return in 2021 with the Hammerhead 1190, touted as America’s “fastest production motorcycle.” The Super Cruiser, designed in partnership with Roland Sands, combines sportbike elements with the comfort of a cruiser, offering an engaging and enjoyable riding experience.

Buell's Newest Creation Is The Super Cruiser Designed By Roland Sands

Just six months after opening pre-orders for the Super Cruiser, Buell has already received an astonishing $120 million in pre-orders. This enormous demand reflects the American market’s affinity for style, power, and performance. Buell CEO Bill Melvin remarks that this level of interest is unprecedented for an American V-Twin motorcycle. The bike is projected to enter production in 2025, with an estimated retail price range of $20,000 to $30,000.

The Buell Super Cruiser shares its powertrain with the Hammerhead 1190 sportbike. It features a 1,190cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 101 pound-feet of torque. With 17-inch wheels and adjustable suspension, handlebars, and footpegs, the Super Cruiser offers personalized ergonomics. Surprisingly, it weighs only 450 pounds, making it exceptionally light for both its power class and an American V-twin.

In a press release, Bill Melvin emphasizes Buell’s optimistic future in the market, stating, “Now, the overwhelming demand for the Super Cruiser puts Buell on a trajectory for significant long-term growth. This ramp-up will be nothing short of exhilarating. Anyone interested in joining us for this exciting ride – in any capacity – should reach out now. We want to work with you.”

Buell's Newest Creation Is The Super Cruiser Designed By Roland Sands

The successful pre-order phase of the Super Cruiser demonstrates Buell’s continued relevance in the motorcycle market. Now, enthusiasts eagerly await the fulfillment of Buell’s promise.

Harley-Davidson To Launch X350 And X500 In Japan

Harley-Davidson is expanding its presence in the Asian market with the launch of two new models in Japan. The brand recently partnered with Hero MotoCorp in India to bring the X440, a small displacement, single-cylinder model, to a wider audience. In China, Harley-Davidson has collaborated with QJ Motor to develop a range of motorcycles, which includes the X350 and X500. These two models, based on existing QJ Motor/Benelli models, were initially available only in China but will soon be released in Australia. Japan is the next country where the X350 and X500 will be introduced, with a planned launch in October 2023.

2024 Harley-Davidson X350 - Riding 2

The X350 and X500 are part of Harley-Davidson’s global strategy to cater to different markets. These models feature smaller engines compared to the brand’s home market offerings and have a standard and naked bike design, diverging from the typical cruiser styling. The X350 is similar to the Benelli 302S, while the X500 is a restyled version of the Benelli Leoncino 500, both manufactured by QJ Motor in China.

2024 Harley-Davidson X500 - Right Rear Angle Closeup View

As for performance and technology, the X350 is equipped with a 353cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine. It produces 36 horsepower and 23 pound-feet of torque, with power transmitted through a six-speed manual gearbox. The X500 offers more power with its liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine displacing 500cc. It generates 47 horsepower and 33.9 pound-feet of torque.

Pricing and availability details for the Japanese market have yet to be announced, but the official launch is expected in October 2023.

Under the skin: Is ammonia the key to cutting CO2?

A Chinese manufacturer, GAC, in partnership with Toyota, has made news by successfully running a car engine on carbon-free ammonia. While the idea of using a substance commonly associated with fertilizers and cleaning products may seem unconventional, further examination reveals that it is not as impractical as it sounds. Research into the use of ammonia as a substitute for fossil fuels has been ongoing for nearly as long as cars have existed, for both petrol and diesel engines.

During World War II, ammonia-powered buses were used in Belgium, and the US military explored its use in the 1960s. The chemical formula of ammonia, NH3, offers an explanation for its effectiveness. Each ammonia molecule contains one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms, making it a dense “hydrogen carrier.” In other words, when ammonia is burned, the engine essentially runs on hydrogen.

However, there are challenges associated with using ammonia as a fuel. It contains less energy than petrol or diesel and has a slower burning rate. Previous research has explored two approaches: splitting ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen and burning the hydrogen gas, or using some fossil fuel to facilitate ignition. The first method adds complexity and cost, while the second partially defeats the purpose.

GAC has not provided detailed information on their approach, but it is possible to directly ignite ammonia. Mahle Powertrain released research findings last year on developing ammonia combustion as a replacement for diesel in heavy-duty engines used in trucks, buses, machinery, and marine applications. They tested two methods.

The first method involves retrofitting heavy-duty turbo diesels with a second set of injectors to introduce gaseous ammonia as the main energy source. Alternatively, Mahle Powertrain successfully ran a single-cylinder research engine on pure gaseous ammonia using their innovative Mahle Jet Ignition (MJI) system. This system eliminates the need for fossil fuel as an ignition source and produces ultra-clean combustion with minimal harmful pollutants such as NOx.

The MJI system features a small pre-chamber in the top of each combustion chamber, equipped with holes at the bottom. A spark plug and fuel injector are inserted into the pre-chamber. A small charge is injected into the pre-chamber while the main charge enters the cylinder through the usual inlet ports. When the charge in the pre-chamber ignites, hot gas is expelled through the holes into the cylinder, efficiently and evenly igniting the main charge.

Ammonia offers an advantage as a road fuel because, although it exists as a gas at atmospheric pressure and room temperature, it liquefies under relatively low pressure (around 7.5 bar) and can be transported in tankers in that form. In contrast, hydrogen is typically stored in cars at 750 bar.

2023 Dodge Hornet Vs. 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale

Dodge has been making headlines with its gas-guzzling, big-power muscle cars. Even the Durango full-size SUV has received a Hellcat variant. But the Dodge lineup has been stale for a long time and only making updates to old vehicles that have been in production since 2011. But Dodge has recently introduced an all-new model called the Dodge Hornet. This new vehicle inserts Dodge into the competitive compact crossover segment and aims to introduce a lot of new buyers to the brand.

On the other spectrum, Alfa Romeo has seen a resurgence in their brand with the introduction of the Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV which are great vehicles. A third vehicle has joined the lineup which shares a lot of similarities with the Dodge Hornet. The Alfa Romeo Tonale was first previewed in 2019 so we knew it was coming, and it’s finally here. This is Alfa’s answer for a compact Italian crossover, and we expect it to be a good vehicle.

RELATED: Dodge Hornet – Everything You Need To Know About Dodge’s First Electrified Vehicle

Is The Alfa Romeo Tonale Just A Better-Looking Dodge Hornet?

2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
Alfa Romeo
Front three-quarter shot of the Alfa Romeo Tonale in motion

This would be right except the Tonale came first, it was first shown as a concept car at the Geneva Auto Show in 2019. It was a good-looking SUV with the Alfa Romeo design language, and to Alfa’s credit, the production vehicle looks just like the concept. The front has the iconic V Scudetto Grille and large bottom which has been a trademark of Alfa Romeo cars since the ‘50s. Its adaptive LED Trilobo headlight design looks interesting and gives the vehicle a sporty look.

The side profile of the Tonale is normal with black body cladding and the familiar five-hole which date back to the 1960s. The back end mimics the front with the Trilobo taillights but with a full-width light bar and no visible exhaust. Alfa Romeo has always drawn design inspiration from its history and the Tonale wears the modern interpretation well.

The Dodge Hornet has been teased before in 2006 but was pitched as a mini MPV and not a crossover. The new Hornet has no resemblance to that concept and Dodge has gone for an imposing look for this vehicle. Dodge has designed the upper and lower grilles with a honeycomb pattern to mimic a hornet’s hive with the Dodge Rhombi logo in front. A noticeable difference is the hood vents on the hood which are not present on the Tonale.

2024 Dodge Hornet
Dodge
Front three-quarter shot of the Dodge Hornet

The Hornet logo is also seen on the front quarter panel similar to a Hellcat logo on the other models. The side profile looks very similar to the Tonale with the black body cladding but the wheels are less interesting. At the back, the styling is similar to the Tonale but the LED light bar design looks like a smaller version of the one found on the Dodge Durango. A neat feature is the first-ever illuminated Rhombi logo.

Dimensions

Alfa Romeo Tonale

Dodge Hornet

Length

178.3 inches

178 inches

Width

72.4 inches

82 inches

Wheelbase

103.8 inches

103.8 inches

Height

63.2 inches

63 inches

Wheel size (inches)

18-20

17-18

Weight

4,133 pounds

4,140 pounds

Towing Capacity

2,000 pounds

2,000 pounds

Both car brands are owned by the Stellantis group and share the same small wide 4×4 LWB architecture. This means both cars also have similar dimensions but the Hornet is a bit wider and the non-hybrid trim is a bit lighter at 3,715 pounds. The Tonale is named after one of Italy’s highest mountain passes and takes shapes from nature. Meanwhile, the Hornet gets its name from a deadly wasp, and Dodge knows how to come up with cool names.

RELATED: 2023 Dodge Hornet: A Rebadged Tonale With A Catchy Punchline

Identical Interior Design And Layout

There are a lot of similarities in the design and layout of the interior of both vehicles. The steering wheel design and button locations are identical. Physical climate controls are found just beneath the center screen and the center console layout is the same. They also have similar features and technology which include:

  • 12.3-inch digital instrument display.
  • 10.3-inch center touchscreen.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Amazon Alexa.
  • 4G LTE Wi-fi Hotspot.
  • 14-speaker Harmon Kardon Premium Audio System (optional).
  • Power adjustable and memory seats.
  • Sunroof and many more.

There are a few differences like the start-stop button on the steering wheel of the Tonale but the Hornet has it on the center console. The side air vents have different designs, and the Tonale uses better materials compared to the Hornet. Interior room is similar in both vehicles since they have the same wheelbase. But the Hornet has more cargo space at 27 cubic-feet while the Tonale has just 22.9 cubic feet. This is because of the underfloor storage in non-hybrid Hornet GT models.

The Dodge Hornet Offers More Powertrain Options

2024 Dodge Hornet
Dodge
Yellow and Red Dodge Hornets in motion

Alfa Romeo Tonale Vs Dodge Hornet PHEV And Dodge Hornet GT

Alfa Romeo Tonale

Dodge Hornet RT

Dodge Hornet GT

Engine

I-4 Turbo hybrid

I-4 Turbo hybrid

I-4 Turbo

Displacement

1.3 liters

1.3 liters

2.0 liters

Power

285 horsepower

288 horsepower

268 horsepower

Torque

350 pound-feet

383 pound-feet

295 pound-feet

Transmission

Six-speed automatic

Six-speed automatic

Nine-speed automatic

Drivetrain

All-wheel drive

All-wheel drive

All-wheel drive

Fuel economy (MPG)

23/29 City/Highway

NA

21/29 City/Highway

EV Range

30 miles

30 miles

None

Battery

15.5 kWh

15.5 kWh

None

Fuel tank (gallons)

11.2

11.2

13.5

0-60 MPH

6 seconds

5.6 seconds

NA

The Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet share a similar four-wheel drive hybrid powertrain with a slight power bump in the Hornet. While the Tonale has only one powertrain, the Hornet also gets a slightly bigger non-hybrid engine option. Performance numbers are also similar at 6 seconds but the Hornet is a bit faster, and both cars have a range of over 300 miles. There are different drive modes available for each car which changes its character depending on your choice:

  • The Tonale has four modes which are: Dynamic, Natural Mode, Advanced E, and ESC Off.
  • The Hornet has three modes which are: Hybrid, Electric, and eSave mode.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why The Tonale Will Save Alfa Romeo From Extinction

Safety Features And Warranty

2024 Dodge Hornet
Dodge
Dodge Hornet lane keep assist illustration.

There are a lot of safety features equipped in these vehicles to keep you safeorn. They include:

  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Roll Stability Control (RSC)
  • Traction Control
  • Blind Spot Monitoring Blind Spot
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Collision Mitigation-Front
  • 360 Camera
  • Brembo brakes and many more.

Reliability hasn’t been the strongest aspect for either brand but they do provide acceptable warranty:

Alfa Romeo Tonale Vs Dodge Hornet Warranty

Duration

Alfa Romeo

Dodge Hornet

Basic Years

4

3

Basic Miles

50,000

36,000

Drivetrain Years

4

5

Drivetrain Miles

50,000

60,000

Corrosion Years

5

5

Corrosion Miles

Unlimited

Unlimited

Roadside Assistance Years

4

5

Roadside Assistance Miles

Unlimited

60,000

The Alfa Romeo Tonale Is More Expensive

2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale
Alfa Romeo
Front shot of a blue Alfa Romeo Tonale

Alfa Romeo has a more upscale brand recognition compared to Dodge. Although they may be similar in a lot of ways the Alfa Romeo Tonale has a higher MSRP when compared to the Dodge Hornet. The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a big premium over the Dodge Hornet but the badge and design do deserve an extra charge. Prices for the Tonale Start at $44,590 while the Hornet starts at $32,330 with more expensive trim levels.

Alfa Romeo Tonale:

  • Sprint: $44,590
  • Ti: $47,250
  • Veloce: $51,290

Dodge Hornet:

  • GT: $32,330
  • GT Plus: 37,330
  • RT: 42,530
  • RT Plus: 47,530