Cadillac is off to a good start in 2023. Recent data shows sales in the first quarter of 2023 are up 28% compared to the same period in 2022. The most popular model in Cadillac’s lineup so far this year surprisingly isn’t the Escalade. The more humble XT5 has that title.

The XT5 is the most popular Cadillac

Data compiled by GM Authority shows the best-selling model in the Cadillac lineup so far this year is the XT5. This 2-row luxury SUV is slotted between the compact XT4 and the 3-row XT6. The XT5 makes a compelling case as a premium SUV with a reasonable price tag and many features for the money.

The Cadillac XT5 replaced the Cadillac SRX in the 2017 model year. It’s Cadillac’s closest competitor to the best-selling luxury vehicle in America, the Lexus RX. Copying the formula for the RX has paid off for Cadillac, and its numbers reflect that success.

What about the Cadillac Escalade?

The XT5 is popular, but if you combine the sales numbers of the Cadillac Escalade and the long-wheelbase Escalade ESV, the Escalade outsells the XT5. The XT5 sold 7,285 units in the first quarter of 2023, but the Escalade and Escalade ESV combined sold 9,228 units.

It’s worth noting that the Escalade is the only model in the Cadillac lineup that saw a decline in its numbers compared to last year. In fact, it’s down 47% (12% if you factor in the ESV). This may have to do with the fact that it’s the most expensive Cadillac model, and rising interest rates and economic woes could be slowing it down.

Even Cadillac sedans are doing well

Sales for the compact Cadillac CT4 are up 43%, and the midsize CT5 is up 37%. These boosts may be partially driven by a halo effect of the V-Series Blackwing editions of those sedans attracting more buyers.

The least popular Cadillac

The Cadillac model with the lowest sales numbers so far in 2023 is the Lyriq. It has earned positive press for its satisfactory blend of luxury, technology, practicality, and performance while getting more than 300 miles of range.

However, it’s not even close to being the most popular Cadillac. The Lyriq has only sold 968 units in the first quarter of 2023.

While the growth for Cadillac is impressive so far this year, the primary reason for it is likely the supply chain. Early 2022 was a dark time for car inventories industry-wide. While some supply chain issues remain, we’re in a better spot now than we were a year ago. Actually having cars available on dealer lots goes a long way in increasing numbers.

Cadillac is having a good year moving its bread and butter, gas-powered luxury sedans and SUVs at competitive prices. Time will tell whether the brand’s promise of going all-electric will speed up EV adoption or sacrifice sales volume to rival luxury brands making a slower transition to EVs.