2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Review: Luxury Design, High Cost, Average Ride

      High performance but lacking in excitement. The Cadillac Optiq-V delivers 519 horsepower and notable speed, yet does not provide an engaging driving experience.

      Luxury comes at a price. Starting at $70,000, the Optiq-V offers style and luxury, but at the expense of range and efficiency.

      Sophisticated interior with usability problems. The cabin showcases high-quality materials, but is hindered by confusing controls and a lack of intuitive design.

      Range and charging capabilities are inadequate. The Optiq-V has a range limited to 250 miles, and its charging speed is slower compared to competitors.

      In summary: The Cadillac Optiq-V presents luxury and power, yet falls short in delivering the engaging driving dynamics and efficiency that are expected at its price point.

      AI assisted, editor reviewed.

      The modern automotive industry is indeed fascinating. Consider the Chevrolet Equinox EV, which is quite ordinary but perfectly adequate as an electric commuter. Due to the modular design of electric powertrains, General Motors can adapt that SUV, install more powerful motors and other performance enhancements, add a more sophisticated and stylish body, and thus create the Cadillac Optiq-V. This version is priced at $70,000, while Chevy sells the base model for half that price.

      We started with one of America’s most accessible and popular EVs and transitioned to a legitimately high-performance electric SUV. The Optiq-V produces 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, featuring robust six-piston Brembo brakes in front, stiffer anti-roll bars, and adaptive dampers—it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.

      However, I found driving it to be lackluster. This disappointing experience detracts from the appeal of such a vehicle, especially one displaying the Cadillac badge, traditionally associated with thrilling drives.

      The Basics

      A standard Cadillac Optiq begins at $52,695 and is powered by a rear axle motor with 315 hp. For an additional $16,000, you can upgrade to the Optiq-V, which significantly enhances not only the power and handling but also the style and luxury.

      I think this SUV has an attractive profile, even if it’s not as striking as the Lyriq’s design. The Nimbus Metallic paint on my test model is somewhat lighter than I would personally choose, but it’s unique and complements the deeper hues of the interior trim and the pattern along the C-pillar. It’s worth noting that the panel is transparent when viewed from inside and serves as a standard small quarter window.

      This particular model costs $79,270, which is indeed a substantial amount. The paint adds $725 to the price, while the $2,555 Charging and Convenience package enhances the onboard AC charger to 19.2 kW from the standard 11.5 kW. Unfortunately, this configuration negatively impacts the range, reducing it to about 250 miles instead of the standard 278 miles. More details on that later.

      A significant portion of the extra price is attributed to the $5,500 carbon fiber exterior package, which adorns various trims, including the striking rear diffuser. It goes without saying that I don’t believe this option adds significant value to the vehicle.

      Driving the Cadillac Optiq-V

      The interesting aspect of the Optiq-V is that Cadillac engineers claim they meticulously refined every component of this vehicle beyond just the powertrain, and I believe them. It accelerates quickly in a straight line and feels firm on the road without being uncomfortable, holding substantial grip through fast corners.

      However, like many electric SUVs, it carries considerable weight, and I think not enough was done to mitigate that perception. Interestingly, Cadillac modified the steering rack specifically for the Optiq-V, though it doesn't feel responsive enough—the steering ratio is somewhat slow. Coupled with the effort required to maneuver it and its bulky size, the result is a vehicle that, while capable in the corners, almost discourages you from exploring its potential.

      It’s not that it doesn’t handle well, because it certainly does, but there’s a noticeable disconnect between its measurable agility and how agile it feels, often catching you off guard when you push it. You might need to remind yourself that it’s designed to be driven hard, unlike owners of the Blackwing models who likely don’t encounter this sensation.

      In less spirited driving scenarios, the Optiq-V does feel like the luxury EV it’s marketed as, with a ride that allows the driver to feel the road texture without being excessively harsh, excellent sound insulation, and a smooth transition between regenerative and friction braking. I did disable the regenerative braking—something I often do with GM vehicles, as I’m not a fan of their aggressive stopping performance when you ease off the throttle—yet the choice is there if desired. Even though I’d prefer livelier steering, it remains accurate.

      Interior and Tech

      In many ways, the cabin of the Optiq embodies Cadillac’s current strengths. It’s elegantly simple and