The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V has debuted as the luxury brand’s first-ever V-Series compact crossover. The EV’s dual-motor powertrain is estimated to produce 519 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, good for a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds in Velocity Max mode. That’s the same torque rating as the Lyriq-V but in a smaller, lighter, more affordable package. Cadillac estimates a 275-mile range on a full charge.
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V was first confirmed for production in April of 2025. Cadillac dropped a few teaser images for the high-performance EV, saying it’s “elevating the brand’s performance offering” by “prioritizing precision, a dynamic suspension, and tight steering.”
“V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac’s performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience,” said Global Cadillac Vice President John Roth. “Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio, bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac’s global impact.”
Being a proper V-Series model, there’s more to the Optiq-V than just upgrades to the motors. It comes with a Competitive Mode, a customizable V-Mode, launch control, Brembo front brakes, what Cadillac calls “enhanced” suspension, and a sporty appearance package with standard 21-inch wheels. Standard luxury features include a 19-speaker AKG Studio audio system, a 33-inch display, and Super Cruise.
“The V-Series was a natural continuation with the Optiq’s architecture,” said Cockburn. “With Cadillac’s signature isolated precision ride and handling characteristic, tighter steering, enhanced suspension, and summer-only tires [all-seasons are standard, summer tires are optional], our team delivered a unique package that makes Optiq-V a fun, nimble drive that’s quicker when cornering.”
One of the most significant upgrades of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V isn’t a performance feature; it’s a standard NACS charge port. This is the very first GM EV with a native NACS port, allowing for easy charging without an adapter at Tesla Supercharger, IONNA, and EVgo charging stations.
“Integrating the native NACS port into our vehicle architecture is an important step forward, reflecting our leadership in engineering and our commitment to providing our customers with more charging options,” said Optiq-V chief engineer John Cockburn.
Pricing for the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V starts at $68,795, including the destination charge. Unlike the Lyriq-V, which has the V-Series and V-Series Premium trims, it appears that there’s only one trim of the Optiq-V. Production begins at the GM Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico this Fall.
Comments
That color is mesmerizing.
No 5.5L?
Rick, are you an idiot?
Very nice to see onboard NAVS charging Port.
This will unify ALL EV’s in the future.
Should be a pretty fun crossover. Any idea if it’s still front-wheel drive-biased?
They are all full time AWD.
I think what caddyzig is aware it will be an AWD vehicle. I think he was asking what will be the power split will be for the motors. Personally, I’m hoping for something like 30% at the front and 70% at the rear.