2026 CADILLAC OPTIQ

 

CADILLAC ADDS PERFORMANCE V-SERIES 

MODEL TO ALL-ELECTRIC OPTIQ LINEUP

In only its second year, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq already has built an impressive résumé in the electric SUV market. The smallest and most affordable all-electric SUV in Cadillac’s portfolio, the Optiq ranks as the company’s second-best seller among the company’s EVs behind the ground-breaking Lyriq and was sixth overall among all premium electric SUVs in sales figures covering the first six months of this year.

Offered in four trims (Sport 1 and Sport 2 and Luxury 1 and Luxury 2) in its debut as a 2025 model. the 2026 Cadillac Optiq now offers a performance-driven V-Series version that reduces range but makes for a more exhilarating driving experience

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq V-Series, which this review is based on, comes with a dual-motor and standard all-wheel-drive. It is rated at 519 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque and Cadillac estimates it will scoot from zero-to-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

That’s about a second quicker the Optiq’s Sport and Luxury trims with the optional dual motors. Sport and Luxury trims also are available either with single-motor and rear-wheel drive.

In addition toan initial price tag of $14,000 to $17,000 over the other trims, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq V-Series loses a bit in the way of electric driving range. Cadillac says range for the Sport and Luxury trims is about 317 miles for single-motor versions and 303 for those with dual motors while the Optiq-V delivers a disappointing 278 miles.

The good news is that all models are equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports whic
h means you can hook up at any one of the 29,000 Tesla outlets and other public facilities as well.

The Optiq may be Cadillac’s smallest SUV but that doesn’t mean it scrapped or lacks comfort. The cabin is roomy and comfortable with 41.6 inches of legroom up front and 37.8 inches in the second row.

Cargo space expands from 26 cubic feet with the second-row seats in place to 57 cubic feet when the back row is folded.

Most infotainment functions work of a hi-def screen and Cadillac thoughtfully includes a row of hard buttons underneath to manually adjust climate control settings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, however, are not offered. 

Wireless phone charging is available, and the radio gets an AM band to go along with FM and Sirius-XM Satellite Radio. GM’s hands-free driving Super Cruise also is among standard features.

Starting MSRP for the 2026 Cadillac Optig AWD V-Series is $68,795. Other trims start at $52,395 (Luxury), $54,595 (Premium Luxury), $52,995 (Sport), and $55,095 (Premium Sport).

What I liked about the 2026 Cadillac Optiq AWD V-Series: It has a sporty profile and a comfortable, upscale interior. Stantard tech features include GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. You can adjust climate control via hard buttons instead of going through the touchscreen. Some controls also can be operated via a rotary controller on the console. Unlike some EVs, the radio includes an AM band

What I didn’t like about the 2026 Cadillac Optiq AWD V-Series: The touchscreen can be slow to respond to touches at times. There is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, forcing you to use the built-in Google system. No front storage area (frunk) is offered. In my experience, the tilt-and-telescoping steering column in luxury vehicles is usually power adjusted via a button but the on the Optiq it must be adjusted manually. The dual-motor configuration in the V-Series may deliver extra performance but you pay for it with considerably less driving range.

Would I buy the 2026 Cadillac Optiq AWD V-Series? I’m not really interested in electric vehicles in general and the V-Series seems like overkill when it comes to performance as EVs as a class provide instant torque for quick getaways.  Other trims make more sense financially.