Cadillac is adding a high-performance electric SUV to its expanding V-series portfolio with the debut of the 2026 Optiq-V. Slated to become the flagship of the Optiq range, this compact EV adopts a more aggressive design and significantly enhanced capabilities compared to its standard counterpart. Sharing its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain with the larger Lyriq-V, the Optiq-V delivers an impressive 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque—figures slightly toned down due to its smaller battery capacity. The Optiq-V is among the fastest in its class, reaching 60 mph in a speedy 3.5 seconds despite the Lyriq-V’s 615 horsepower.
However, this added muscle comes at the cost of some driving range. The 85.0-kWh battery offers an estimated 275 miles per charge, a reduction of about 25 miles from the non-V Optiq model. Despite the drop, the Optiq-V is engineered to be more than just a straight-line performer. According to lead engineer Alex Doss, GM aimed to make this SUV a dynamic handler, tailoring it for spirited driving through features like retuned suspension, quicker steering, and six-piston Brembo brakes. It also rides on grippy Continental Sport Contact 6 summer tires to maximize performance on twisty roads.
Aesthetically, the Optiq-V sets itself apart with distinctive design cues, including a reimagined front fascia and a V-series signature pattern within the faux grille. A striking royal blue theme ties the exterior and interior together, appearing on the brake calipers, rear quarter windows, dashboard, seatbacks, and even the seatbelts. Notably, this model will be the first GM vehicle equipped with a native NACS charging port, granting access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Cadillac has confirmed that production and sales will begin this fall, with the Optiq-V starting at \$68,795. With this addition, the brand continues to push forward in the electric performance space.
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