The Cadillac Escalade is one of the most recognizable and iconic Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) in North America. It has earned its popularity primarily due to its luxury and performance. Since its introduction back in 1999, the full-size SUV has gained a lot of popularity due to its robust engine, advanced tech, and spacious exterior and interior. The Escalade doesn’t disappoint when it comes to these two factors, but it’s also not the leader in Cadillac sales. Let’s dive into which model is.

Why the CT5 is by far the most popular model Cadillac makes

The Cadillac CT5 is one of the best-selling cars in Cadillac’s lineup. Sales of the Cadillac CT5 in Q4 2022 have significantly increased in both Canada and the United States. Approximately 5,391 units were sold during the fourth quarter of 2022, which is a significant improvement compared to the number of units sold in 2021 during the same period; approximately 1,810 units were sold in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 is a luxury sedan that combines a striking exterior styling with a powerful engine making it stand out from other luxury sedans. The CT5 comes with impressive technology and advanced safety features.

Why Cadillac sales of the CT5 have experienced an increase

In China, more than 200,000 units of the Cadillac CT5 were sold, according to a recent announcement by General Motors. It means that this is the highest international volume of sales for any Cadillac model internationally.

The SAIC-GM joint venture has introduced multiple marketing operations, with local customers receiving special benefits. The marketing efforts aim to celebrate the ever-increasing popularity of the CT5 in China. SAIC-GM reported that during the first seven months of the year, approximately 44,897 units of the CT5 were sold in China. The figures reveal an increase of approximately 37.5% in terms of sales.

The significant increase in the number of Cadillac sales of the CT5 in China reveals that this model is one of the best-selling models in Cadillac’s lineup, not just in China but also internationally. Compared to the number of sales of the Cadillac Escalade in North America, where only 23,113 units were sold, the CT5 is far ahead in terms of popularity.

The CT5 was first introduced in the China market back in 2019 and over the years, it has experienced a steady rise in popularity. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic and the crisis related to semiconductors, the sedan has still maintained higher sales figures enjoying a year-on-year increase in sales numbers compared to its German competitors.

The increase in popularity of the Cadillac CT5, especially in China, is key to Cadillac’s strategic operations. The increase in popularity will improve Cadillac’s overall brand image in the global automotive industry.

Why a car like the CT5 probably wouldn’t be as popular in the United States

In the United States, most car buyers prefer SUVs to luxury sedans. It is a key reason why many buyers in the North American market prefer to purchase the family-friendly Cadillac Escalade over the Cadillac CT5. 

Approximately 5,396 units of the Cadillac CT5 were sold during the second quarter of 2023. The number of sales recorded for the Cadillac Escalade during the same period is significantly higher, with approximately 11,555 units being sold.

In 2021, approximately 52% of vehicles purchased in the United States were SUVs. Sales numbers in 2022 reveal that approximately 72.9% of vehicles purchased in the US were either pickups or SUVs. There is an ever-increasing popularity of vehicles that are heavier, more powerful, and much bigger in the United States.