I just got a Win Coyote in 270 wsm. I did not want a 223/22-250/308 which are all common in these style guns - heavy barrel, flat forend, more for varmint/target shooting. So, the winny was the only option I was able to find in my price range (~600 dollars).
Since you want a 223, consider the savage and ruger varmint models as well as the winchester stealth II. The savage laminated with fluted stainless barrel will be close in price, the ruger should be a little less perhaps, and a savage with sporter style barrels will be considerable less than the winny.