Choosing a new car for the upcoming model year doesn’t have to be daunting. Instead, potential owners can choose from a list of well-rounded options, like TrueCars’ collection of the best cars for 2023. Still, the top of the list for this model year is a bit monopolized; Hyundai stole the two top spots with models like the 2023 Hyundai Elantra. Moreover, Honda followed with the next two spots, with names like the 2023 Honda Accord. 

Hyundai’s cars top the list, followed by Honda and an unlikely Volkswagen hot hatchback

In TrueCar’s list of the best new cars for 2023, the top five models come from just three manufacturers: 

• Hyundai Elantra
• Hyundai Sonata
• Honda Accord
• Honda Civic
• Volkswagen Golf GTI

The list is a balanced helping of sensibility, value, and in the case of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, driver’s car fun. 

Is the 2023 Hyundai Elantra a good car?

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra establishes itself as a good car for bargain hunters with a balance of affordability, generous standard features, and an industry-leading warranty. The Elantra lineup offers class-leading hybrid trims as well as fuel-saving conventional 2.0L sedans.  

TrueCar says the Hyundai model starts at around $21,765. That means it’s not just their pick for the best car of 2023; it’s also the cheapest option in the top five. Moreover, with a five-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty, the Hyundai car is an easy decision to make in the segment. 

Will the 2023 Hyundai Sonata be redesigned?

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata institutes very few changes for the new model year, with similar styling, powerplants, and features. However, the SEL trim does add a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with voice functions and integrated navigation. 

Still, even with a familiar face and few changes, TrueCar gave the Sonata the No. 2 spot on the list of the best cars for 2023. Its versatility among its trims makes it a chameleon among midsize competitors like the 2023 Honda Accord. For instance, the Sonata has a superior basic warranty and better hybrid fuel economy than the Accord, albeit neither boasts all-wheel drive (AWD) grip. 

Is Honda redesigning the Accord for 2023?

Honda redesigned its popular Accord model for 2023. The refresh is inside and out, bringing the Accord model a welcome exterior styling update akin to the newest Civics. Moreover, the new 11th-generation Accord offers efficient hybrid trims with as much as 48 mpg combined. 

How does the 2023 Honda Civic stack up against the Hyundai cars on the list?

For the second model year, the 11th-generation Civic wears a mature redesign instead of the unfortunate styling of the previous iteration. However, the 2023 Honda Civic lacks a bit of versatility compared to the Hyundai Elantra. For instance, the Civic goes without a hybrid model. As a result, the Civic is hopeless to compete with the Elantra’s fuel economy. 

Moreover, the 2023 Honda Civic’s starting price point of around $26,145 makes it less competitive than the Hyundai cars. Still, the new lineup includes the 315-horsepower Civic Type R, a taut, track-ready driver’s car with thirty years of hot hatch heritage. 

Is the Golf GTI fast?

The 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI might not be as fast as some performance cars, but it’s fun, quick, and practical. For instance, the GTI will hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, but it will also seat five with a liftback for groceries and shopping. The Golf GTI can do it all.

Which one would you pick? Tell us in the comments below!