- Cadillac’s Optiq compact electric SUV was new for 2025; an expanded lineup gives buyers more choices in 2026
- A new rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option gives shoppers a lower-priced option
- Every other option gets more power
Cadillac spent much of last year introducing the world to a second slate of cars. The company now offers one set of luxury gas-powered SUVs, like the XT5 and Escalade, and a parallel set of electric models, like the Lyriq and Escalade-IQ.
I’ve driven most of them, and I think the jewel of the group is the Cadillac Optiq. It’s still new enough that you may not have seen one on the road. However, the Optiq was a late entry to the 2025 model year, so a revised 2026 version is already headed to dealer lots this fall.
The Optiq is a compact luxury SUV that shares most of its parts with the Lyriq. It’s slightly smaller, allowing a lower starting price. Its chief virtue is a stunningly stylish cabin full of contrasting textures and subtle design details.
For 2026, it will keep those virtues and give buyers more choices. The 2025 Optiq has just one powertrain – an all-wheel-drive setup making 300 horsepower. For 2026, shoppers will have three to choose from.
A new rear-wheel-drive (RWD) option will carry a lower starting price than any 2025 Optiq — $52,395 with the mandatory delivery fee included, vs. $54,390 for last year’s model. But it doesn’t skimp on power, with 315 hp from one motor on the rear axle. Cadillac estimates a range of 300 miles between charges.
A step up to all-wheel drive (AWD) gets you the same 300 hp as 2025 but adds foul-weather security. It has a range of 280 miles.
A high-performance Optiq-V bumps power up to 519 hp and gets 275 miles between charging sessions. With tighter steering, enhanced suspension, and beefier brakes, it’s built for speed and starts at $68,795.
Every 2026 Optiq will use the Tesla-style North American Charging System (NACS) port, which will give it access to Tesla Superchargers.
