What’s New in the 2023 Model Year?

The new model year is always an exciting time in the automotive industry. The latest research and development is released, giving audiences a preview of the most incredible ideas coming to the market. In this article, we will spotlight new vehicles entering the market, review models set to receive makeovers, and highlight the exciting new features making their way into cars this year.

New Vehicle Features and Technology

In-Vehicle Workstation
Manufacturers understand that many commercial customers use their vehicles as mobile offices. But anyone with experience as a road warrior knows that a vehicle’s cabin isn’t always the most comfortable place to get work done. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are introducing features designed to make your vehicle a more suitable environment to operate within. An example of this is Ford’s Interior Work Surface, which allows drivers to get work done from the cabin of their vehicle with ease. You can expect to see more manufacturers introduce similar “creature comforts,”, particularly in their commercial offerings.

In-Vehicle Air Purification Systems
Global events of the past several years have created an increased focus on health. With that in mind, some manufacturers, such as Jaguar Land Rover, have begun offering advanced health features in their vehicles. Jaguar Land Rover claims their new in-vehicle air purification system can inhibit viruses and airborne bacteria by as much as 97%. Now, manufacturers are looking for ways to not only keep their drivers safe but healthy as well.

Stylish Refreshes

Even the most popular vehicles undergo makeovers from time to time. New styling enhancements can completely change the look and perception of a model. In 2023, some big names are getting a facelift.

2023 Honda CR-V
The 2023 Honda CR-V introduces a bolder style than its predecessor. The new honeycomb grill matches some competitors, such as the Hyundai Tucson. The vehicle’s platform will come with a 1.6″ longer wheelbase and an increase in total length of 2.7″, making it brawnier than previous models. Aside from the aesthetics, the 2023 CR-V also sports expanded safety offerings. The now standard Honda Sensing suite includes blind-spot monitoring on all trim levels and an improved adaptive cruise control system. The CR-V is also available in a Hybrid version, equipped with sleek black wheels, amongst several other unique identifiers.

2023 Subaru Ascent
Initially debuting in 2019, the 2023 Subaru Ascent marks a significant mid-cycle refresh to the popular 3-row SUV. The new version of the vehicle will boast a more angular headlight design and a new set of taillights. The automaker has now included several safety enhancements. Including a wide-angled forward-facing camera designed to improve pedestrian detection, evasive steering aids which will help steer around a potential collision at sub-50mph speeds, and a new surround-view camera system. The infotainment center has also been upgraded to include an 11.6″ portrait display standard.

Brand New Models

2023 Dodge Hornet
From the company that brought you the “Challenger” and “Hellcat” comes a brand-new model with an equally intimidating name. The Dodge “Hornet” will enter the compact crossover market in 2023. Built on an Alfa-Romeo platform, the Hornet will sit below the Durango and is estimated to start around $30,000. There will be two trim levels to start, with the potential for more additions in the future. While the EPA has yet to release fuel economy figures, the vehicle will come with a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and 265 horsepower. There will also be a plug-in hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.3L four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that together combine for 285 horsepower. Vehicles are expected to hit showroom floors beginning in December 2022.

Mazda CX-50 & CX-90

While the Mazda6 sedan may be getting retired, the automaker is introducing two brand-new SUVs to its lineup. The Mazda CX-50 and CX-90 be an alternative to the CX-5 and will replace the outgoing CX-9 in the roster. Both vehicles will utilize the company’s new longitudinal-engine platform and inline-six engine. The CX-50 will be the smaller of the two, with seating for up to five passengers. Comparatively, the CX-90 will feature seating for up to seven to compete with vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. The CX-50 is already in the showroom. The CX-90 will be arriving early 2023.  While official pricing has yet to be released for the CX-90, experts estimate it will start around $38,000. The CX-50 pricing starts at $26,800.

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