15:55 13-03-2026

Cadillac changes model designation system for 2027

Cadillac removes torque-based badges, introduces new designations like E4 for all-wheel drive, and discontinues CT4 sedan to simplify lineup.

Cadillac has announced it will change its model designation system. Starting with the 2027 model year, the company will remove badges that indicate engine torque. This system has been in use since 2019 and was fully implemented across the brand's lineup in 2020.

Previously, badges on the rear of vehicles displayed a rounded torque value in newton-meters. The figure was rounded to the nearest 50 or 100 Nm and used to differentiate model versions. However, this system proved confusing for some buyers in North America, where pound-feet is the more common measurement.

The first model to feature the updated badging will be the 2027 Cadillac Vistiq. The 2026 version uses the "900" index, which corresponds to 881 Nm of torque. In the new version, this will be replaced by the "E4" designation, indicating all-wheel drive.

Other models in the brand's lineup will see similar changes. The CT5 sedan will lose its 350T and 550T designations, the gasoline-powered Escalade will drop the 600 index, and the electric Escalade IQ will remove the 1000 index while keeping the E4 badge. The Optiq, Lyriq, and XT5 will also receive comparable updates.

At the same time, Cadillac is trimming its sedan lineup: the CT4 model will be discontinued after the 2026 model year production ends. The company states that the new designation system aims to simplify the vehicles' appearance and make the model range clearer for customers.