Jan. 23, 2026 | The week’s top stories and Cadillac’s Mike Speranzini
About this episode
Cadillac Canada managing director Mike Speranzini shares insights on the brand's record sales in 2025, driven by a strong lineup of new models including the OPTIQ and Escalade IQ. The conversation highlights Cadillac's strategy to attract younger and multicultural customers through digital marketing and a new conquest program. The episode also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the EV market, with Cadillac's EV sales reaching impressive levels. Additionally, it covers changes in dealership experiences and the importance of personalized customer service in the luxury segment.
Chinese EVs are coming, Changes to AutoTrader.ca; David Adams retiring. Plus, Cadillac Canada Managing Director Mike Speranzini talks about record sales, winning new customers, digital marketing, the Luxury market, image programs, new product, and more.
Mitsubishi
"...browsing vehicles from Mitsubishi, Hyundai and Polestar. Hero banners for competitive brands..."
Mitsubishi is a car company from Japan that makes different types of vehicles, like cars and SUVs.
Mitsubishi is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles.
Hyundai
"...browsing vehicles from Mitsubishi, Hyundai and Polestar. Hero banners for competitive brands..."
Hyundai is a car company from South Korea that makes many different kinds of cars, including electric ones.
Hyundai is a South Korean automotive manufacturer that produces a wide variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric models.
Polestar
"...browsing vehicles from Mitsubishi, Hyundai and Polestar. Hero banners for competitive brands..."
Polestar is a car brand from Sweden that focuses on making electric cars, and it started as a part of Volvo.
Polestar is a Swedish automotive brand that specializes in electric performance vehicles, originally a performance division of Volvo.
Cadillac Lyric V
"...we launched OPTIQ, Lyric V, Vistik, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL. And the great news is consumers have accepted them really, really well."
The Cadillac Lyric V is a new electric SUV from Cadillac. It's designed to be luxurious and high-tech, showing that Cadillac is focusing on electric vehicles.
The Cadillac Lyric V is an electric SUV that represents Cadillac's push into the electric vehicle market. It combines luxury features with advanced technology and is part of Cadillac's broader strategy to electrify its lineup.
Cadillac Escalade
"...ast year. So we launched OPTIQ, Lyric V, Vistik, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL. And the great news is consumer..."
Cadillac Optiq
"...we launched OPTIQ, Lyric V, Vistik, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL. And the great news is consumers have accepted them really, really well."
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is an electric version of the famous Escalade SUV. It aims to provide the same luxury and space but with electric power.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is an electric version of the iconic Escalade, known for its luxury and spaciousness. This model is part of Cadillac's transition to electric vehicles, offering the same high-end features in an electric format.
EVs
"...we sold 40% of our mix as EVs. And we saw that grow to 50% in Q4 and 60% in December, which leaves us really optimistic about 2026."
EVs stand for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of fuel. They're becoming more common because they're better for the environment.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology.
super cruise technology
"...including technologies like Dolby Atmos, which is an amazing sound experience, super cruise technology, and other great tech features..."
Super Cruise is a feature that lets you drive without using your hands on the steering wheel on specific highways, making long trips easier.
Super Cruise technology is an advanced driver-assistance system that allows for hands-free driving on certain highways, enhancing convenience and safety for drivers.
Cadillac Lyric
"...move up through Lyric into Vistik, which is our new three row vehicle with six passenger seating..."
The Cadillac Lyric is a new electric SUV from Cadillac. It's designed to be luxurious and has many high-tech features, making it a great choice for those wanting an electric vehicle with a premium feel.
The Cadillac Lyric is an all-electric luxury SUV that represents Cadillac's entry into the electric vehicle market. It combines modern design with advanced technology features, catering to consumers looking for a premium electric driving experience.
Cadillac Vistik
"...into Vistik, which is our new three row vehicle with six passenger seating. And then the Escalade IQ..."
The Cadillac Vistik is a new SUV that can fit six people and has three rows of seats. It's made for families or groups who want a comfortable ride in a luxury vehicle.
The Cadillac Vistik is a new three-row SUV designed to accommodate six passengers. It aims to provide a spacious and comfortable ride, enhancing Cadillac's lineup of luxury vehicles.
infotainment system
"...luxury experiences that include an infotainment experience that can vary well for the driver, the front passenger..."
An infotainment system in a car is like a computer that helps you with music, navigation, and other information while you drive. It makes the ride more enjoyable and easier to manage.
An infotainment system is a combination of entertainment and information delivery systems in a vehicle, typically featuring navigation, audio, and connectivity options. It enhances the driving experience by providing drivers and passengers with access to various media and information.
powered doors
"...as well as a really cool feature in the powered doors that open and close. A feature I didn't realize I needed..."
Powered doors are automatic doors in cars that open and close with a button. They make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle, especially if your hands are full.
Powered doors are automatic doors in a vehicle that can be opened and closed with the push of a button, enhancing convenience and ease of access for passengers. This feature is particularly useful in larger vehicles where manual operation can be cumbersome.
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