World Car Of The Year 2023: Here Are The Ten Finalists

Following the European Car of the Year award, the overall global winner will be announced on April 5, 2023, at the New York Motor Show. The jury will have already selected the ten finalists by that time.

The jury, consisting of several dozen journalists from the European continent, has chosen the Jeep Avenger as its top pick, dethroning the previous year’s winner, the Kia EV6.

Around the same time, on the other side of the Atlantic, the Acura Integra was named the American Car of the Year for 2023. In Japan, the title was awarded to a locally-produced model, the kei-car Nissan Sakura.

These three awards are focused on relatively localized markets, and the most important title still remains: the World Car of the Year 2023! The winner of the top prize will be announced on April 5th at the New York Auto Show. By that time, the jury will have already selected the 10 finalists vying to succeed the Hyundai IONIQ 5, which won the title in 2022.

What are the qualifications for the award? The vehicle in question must be sold on at least two different continents, produced in quantities of at least 10,000 per year, and be relatively accessible. Without further ado, here are the competing models!

ALFA ROMEO TONAL

The Tonale, Alfa Romeo’s first B-segment crossover, starts off this list. It’s expected to revive the brand’s range, which includes aging models like the Giulia, Giulietta, and Stelvio. In North America, it will be sold under the name Hornet by another Stellantis brand, Dodge.

BMW 2 SERIES COUPE

This model is much less practical and more focused on leisure: the BMW 2 Series Coupe. This sporty two-seater has been highly successful since its launch and reflects BMW’s intention to continue offering unconventional and enjoyable driving experiences.

BMW X1/iX1

The X1 crossover and its electric derivative, the iX1, from the premium German brand have been renewed in 2022. They are more modern and technological than their predecessors and offer a wide range of engine options, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric.

HONDA HR-V

Another new crossover model in the competition is the HR-V (also known as the ZR-V in some markets), which made a big impact in 2022, particularly in France where it became the best-selling model, overtaking the historic Jazz.

HYUNDAI IONIQ 6

Another potential victory in sight for Hyundai? Following the success of the 100% electric compact IONIQ 5, the company continued its offensive in 2022 with the unveiling of the IONIQ 6 sedan, featuring similarly ambitious style and performance.

KIA NIRO

Kia’s compact crossover, the Niro, is a recently updated bestseller. Its latest generation has a much more modern design and remains available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric versions.

MAZDA CX-60

Mazda’s contender for the title is their new family crossover, the CX-60. Positioned above the CX-50, it boasts a refined design and is available as a plug-in hybrid. Interestingly, Mazda has equipped it with an inline-six engine!

MERCEDES C-CLASS

Mercedes’ latest mid-size model, the C-Class, is one of the potential winners. Available in sedan or station wagon, it has always been appreciated for its versatility and excellent value for money in the premium segment.

NISSAN ARIYA

Nissan’s first all-electric crossover, the Ariya, is in the running for the title. Building on the success of its Leaf sedan, Nissan is intensifying its electric offensive with this model. The Ariya was already a finalist for the European Car of the Year award.

NISSAN 400Z

In a completely different category, the Nissan 400Z concludes this list. It is sporty, hot, radical, and athletic, which sets it apart from its competitors. However, it is not available in Europe due to the strict emission standards. It’s a shame because it would have been a great rival to the Alpine A110!