Hornet sure to create a buzz

Oozing attitude, the Dodge Hornet concept debuts next week at the Geneva motor show and was conceived to appeal to buyers in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. It follows on from the Euro-inspired Caliber hatchback, which arrives here in a few months.

Chrysler recently announced it intention to snare more than one percent of the European car market, and says it will use the Dodge brand, including the Caliber, to help it achieve this goal.

Although smaller than the Caliber, the Hornet should pack a reasonable sting, thanks to a 1.6-litre supercharged engine with 125kW and 224Nm. This is essentially the same unit that powers the Mini Cooper S. (Remember, Chrysler supplied the engine to BMW in the first place)

Drive is relayed to the front wheels by a six-speed manual transmission. And the wheels themselves are sizeable -- honeycomb-style 19-inchers, wrapped in P185/50 R19 rubber.

Visually, the Hornet makes a telling impact. Chunky, squared-off front and rear guards are complemented by a chop-top roofline and Mazda RX-8-inspired suicide doors.

A novel touch is the bright blue window tint treatment -- Chrysler says if the vehicle makes it to production, customers will be able to specify window tint in the colour of their choice.

The Hornet may be a sign of things to come as Chrysler tries to gain a foothold in the Euro market with a vehicle tailored to suit narrow streets and exorbitant fuel prices. Might be just the thing for Oz, too…$1.26 per litre, anyone?