Another performance electric SUV has made its detailed debut – the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V. Building on the regular Cadillac Optiq, this high-output variant introduces V-Series performance DNA into the brand’s smallest electric SUV, following the same formula seen in the larger Cadillac Lyriq-V.
Despite sharing powertrain components and design cues with other V models, the Optiq-V will be exclusive to select global markets, with no plans for an Australian launch, GM has confirmed.
Electric performance to rival Porsche Macan EV
The Cadillac Optiq-V boasts a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque—a significant upgrade over the standard Optiq, which sees an increase of 163kW and 400Nm.
With launch control engaged, the Optiq-V accelerates from 0–60mph (0–96km/h) in just 3.5 seconds. This puts it squarely in contention with premium rivals in the performance EV SUV space.
To illustrate how it stacks up, here’s a quick comparison with key contenders:
| Model | Power Output | 0–60mph (0–96km/h) Time |
| Cadillac Optiq-V | 387kW / 880Nm | 3.5 seconds |
| Porsche Macan 4S EV | 380kW | 3.9 seconds |
| Porsche Macan Turbo EV | 470kW | 3.1 seconds |
| Cadillac Lyriq-V | 459kW | 3.3 seconds |
While the Macan Turbo EV leads on outright pace, the Optiq-V offers a compelling blend of power and performance, placing it ahead of the Macan 4S and just behind its high-performance sibling, the Lyriq-V.
Battery, range and charging
The performance-oriented Optiq-V retains the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery found in the standard Optiq. However, the increased performance had only a small impact on the electric SUV’s EPA test claimed range, rated at 443km down from 486km.
Using a DC fast charger, the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. More importantly, it is Cadillac’s first EV to feature the North American Charging Standard (NACS), allowing access to Tesla’s Supercharger network in key markets which should help address concerns about range anxiety and charging infrastructure.
Chassis and driving dynamics
Cadillac says the Optiq-V’s chassis has been thoroughly reworked to be worthy of its V-Series badge. Key upgrades include:
- Five-link rear suspension
- Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers
- Brembo front brake calipers
- Tighter steering feel
A V-Mode, activated via a button on the steering wheel, lets drivers engage a performance setup that includes traction management and a unique propulsion sound. A Competitive Mode is also available for more spirited driving.
Design enhancements: Aggressive exterior
The Cadillac Optiq-V also gets a plethora of styling revisions to set it apart from the standard electric SUV. The most notable changes include:
- Unique V-Series grille mesh
- Gloss black front splitter and rear diffuser
- Optional carbon-fibre exterior package
- Standard 21-inch satin graphite wheels
- Optional dark sport finish wheel design
A fixed panoramic glass roof is standard, while the signature Magnus Metal Frost matte grey paint returns, alongside Deep Ocean Tintcoat. V-Series blue also features heavily throughout the exterior and interior.
Interior changes for the Optiq-V
Cadillac takes its V-badge models seriously and so the sporty design elements are extended to the cabin as well for the Optiq-V. Buyers can choose between a Noir black interior or a two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey theme – both paired with bold Santorini Blue accents.
Other interior highlights include:
- Blue piping and trim on seats and dash
- Recycled fabric upholstery with woven patterns
- Genuine carbon-fibre on the centre console
- V-Series badging throughout
The cabin also includes the standard 33-inch curved display, combining driver instruments and infotainment, complete with Google built-in, and a 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Cadillac’s Super Cruise Level 2+ hands-free driving tech is standard for relevant markets, though not currently available on any GM Australia models.
Pricing and production timeline
The Cadillac Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the standard Optiq lineup starts from US$54,390 to US$57,090 (~A$83,000 to A$87,500). Production is scheduled to commence in Autumn 2025.
Not coming to Australia
Despite the excitement surrounding Cadillac’s return to Australia with electric-only offerings, the Optiq-V won’t be one of them.
“No, [Optiq-V isn’t] coming here. We’ll have a Lyriq-V,” said GM ANZ Managing Director Jess Bala.
Bala confirmed that GM Australia plans to introduce the Cadillac Lyriq-V and the standard Optiq, but wants to first assess the V-Series market locally before expanding the portfolio. Regulatory hurdles and platform variations also play a role in the decision.
An official spokesperson reiterated that the Optiq-V’s launch is confirmed only for North America, the Middle East and Israel.
While Australia won’t see the Optiq-V in the immediate future, the Lyriq-V’s local arrival will mark Cadillac’s first V-Series launch down under.
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