2026 German Luxury Car of the Year winner isn’t German – it’s THIS new Cadillac

The EV-powered Cadillac renaissance continues as the all-new VISTIQ is named the winner of the prestigious 2026 German Car of the Year (GCOTY) award in the “luxury” category, bringing GM’s halo brand one step closer to reclaiming its “Standard of the World” status.

If that reads like a familiar headline, it just means you’ve been paying attention! The 2025 Cadillac LYRIQ won the GCOTY award last year, but this year’s award for the 2026 VISTIQ is especially special, because it’s the first time that any automaker (American or otherwise) has won back-to-back GCOTY awards in the luxury category.

“Cadillac is gaining momentum around the world, driven by our exceptional product portfolio,” said John Roth, vice president, Global Cadillac. “Receiving prestigious recognition like the German Car of the Year award in the luxury category validates that progress. Being the first automaker to win this honor two years in a row in such a significant category is a proud achievement for everyone at Cadillac. It’s especially meaningful to earn this recognition in Germany, which remains one of the most competitive and respected automotive markets, home to many legendary brands. That makes this award all the more special.”

Even special-er

The GCOTY is awarded by automotive journalists who test and evaluate the most relevant new vehicles released in Germany during the previous 12 months. They look at criteria like design, innovation, everyday usability, performance, and value before selecting winners in five categories – Compact, Premium, Luxury, Performance, New Energy (read: EVs).

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The GCOTY jury was especially impressed by VISTIQ’s combination of exceptional space, premium comfort, high-end materials, and wide range of innovative technologies. With seating for up to seven passengers and pioneering features such as an augmented-reality head-up display, a night-vision system, and a 23-speaker AK² audio system with Dolby Atmos, the VISTIQ offers a unique blend of characteristics in an all-electric luxury vehicle with everyday practicality. Cadillac’s award was presented on October 13 at a GCOTY gala in Friedrichshafen, Germany.

GENERAL MOTORS

It’s interesting to note, here, that the Cadillac(s) won the Luxury award against its ICE competition. It’s not in some separate, “special” category for EVs – a fact that for sure has upset some of the powertrain engineers at BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even GM.

If you’re interested in checking out the cars the Germans decided were the best new luxury offerings for two historic years in a row for yourself, click the links below to experience one at your local Cadillac dealer.

SOURCE | IMAGES: GM.

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