Dodge has unveiled the
Attitude 4th generation model
But doesn’t it look familiar?
Dodge immediately comes to mind when discussing muscle cars, with iconic models like the Challenger and Charger often featured in the “Fast and Furious” franchise. Although the Ram series has carved out its own niche in the pickup truck segment, Dodge has seen many of its models discontinued over the years, resulting in a significantly reduced lineup.
Recently, Dodge introduced the fourth-generation Attitude, which has transitioned from a subcompact to a compact sedan. However, upon closer inspection, the new model seems strikingly familiar.
Looking at the front design
It Resembles Hyundai Elantra AD
The fourth-generation Attitude’s front design strongly resembles the Hyundai Elantra AD. The prominent central grille, segmented into multiple sections, mirrors the hexagonal shape of the Elantra AD’s grille, while the headlight design is notably similar. The overall aesthetic appears to be a sportier rendition of the Elantra AD.
From the side, the Attitude showcases a fastback-style roof that contributes to a sleek profile, complemented by two sharp character lines. At the rear, the tail lamp design, reminiscent of the Grandeur (Azera), appears truncated, and depending on the trim, a sporty wing adorns the trunk. The design seems aimed at competing with the Elantra N and Volkswagen Jetta GLI rather than typical compact sedans.
The model is a badge-engineered version of the Chinese Trumpchi Empow model
Interestingly, the Attitude is not a wholly original Dodge design. Instead, it is a badge-engineered variant of the Chinese Trumpchi Empow, featuring slight modifications and a Dodge emblem. While the Empow offers two engine options—a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline and a 2.0-liter turbo gasoline—the Attitude comes solely with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that delivers 168 horsepower. It is available in three trims: SXT, Sport, and GT.
The base model includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch central display, smartphone connectivity, and 17-inch wheels. The Sport trim adds features like adaptive cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, a five-way power driver’s seat, and 18-inch wheels. The GT trim further enhances the offering with blind-spot detection, lumbar support for the driver’s seat, and a wireless charging tray.
Dodge has previously badge-engineered Hyundai models
The Attitude’s lineage as a badge-engineered model is not new for Dodge. Upon its initial launch in 2006 as a subcompact, the original Attitude was derived from the second-generation Verna, with the emblem swapped for Dodge’s. At that time, Hyundai had not yet entered the Mexican market, effectively allowing Dodge to pave the way for Hyundai’s eventual entry.
The second-generation model, released in 2011, was based on the Accent, the successor to the Verna. While the first generation was sold under the Dodge name, the second generation returned to the Hyundai emblem, maintaining identical specifications to the Accent. After the partnership between Hyundai and FCA, Dodge’s parent company, ended in 2014, and as Hyundai established itself in Mexico, the third-generation model was badge-engineered from the Mitsubishi Mirage.
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