Video: 2026 Cadillac Vistiq first drive
‘Baby Escalade’ brings big truck energy and advanced features to midsize SUV
- Cadillac will initially sell the Optiq-V in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Middle East.
- A NACS charging port is standard.
- The Optiq-V’s horsepower is 73% more than the new Optiq compact SUV.
Cadillac’s V-series performance line goes electric with a 73% power increase to the brand’s new Optiq compact SUV.
The Optiq-V accelerates to 60 mph in 3.5-seconds and goes on sale this fall.
Priced at $67,300, plus $1,495 destination charge, the Optiq-V will compete with sporty compact SUVs from Mercedes-AMG, BMW M Sport and Lexus F-Sport. Based on what we know now ― price, looks and features ― it could be a formidable competitor.
In addition to a whopping 219 horsepower increase from two new electric motors, the all-wheel-drive Optiq-V gets continuously adaptive ZF shock absorbers and aerodynamic upgrades.
The V-series, now in its fifth generation, accounts for about 10% of Cadillac sales.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Key figures
- 519 hp
- 650 pound-feet of torque
- 85 kWh battery
- 275-mile manufacturer-estimated range
- 33-inch display/touch screen
- 19-speaker AKG audio
- 21-inch wheels
More power and performance drive modes
The Optiq-V’s twin electric motors ― one on each axle for AWD ― are the ones used in Cadillac’s midsize Lyriq EV. They’re bigger than the base Optiq, which produces 300 hp and 354 pound-feet of torque. The V’s 10-module battery is the same size at the base Optiq.
The Optiq-V gets unique performance software, including:
- V-Mode, activated by a button on the steering wheel, allows the driver to program their individual preferences for sporty driving, including sound, launch control, steering, acceleration, damping and competitive mode.
- Competitive Mode adjusts traction management and brake torque vectoring for sporty driving.
- Launch Mode ― engages maximum power for straight-line acceleration.
Ambient lighting complements drive modes.
ZF continuously adaptive shocks and Brembo front brake calipers are standard. All-season or summer 21-inch tires are available.
Key features
- Standard Super Cruise
- Available summer tires
- Built-in NACS charging point
- Fixed glass roof
- Customizable V-mode
- Launch control
- Dolby Atmos compatible audio
- Brake torque vectoring of front and rear axles
- Black roof
Accent colors and V-logos
The V-package also includes a black roof. Other visual touches include blue exterior accents, optional red or blue front brake calipers that have the V-series logo, which is repeated inside out. The V gets two exclusive colors: Magnus Metal Frost and Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Blue seat belts and seat backs are available.
A carbon fiber package includes a rear spoiler and front valence.
Cadillac will sell the Optiq-V in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Middle East. It’ll be the first General Motors vehicle with a factory-installed NACS charging port for access to Tesla DC chargers. An adapter will be available for CCS ports.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V at a glance
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V at a glance
All-wheel drive five-seat luxury performance SUV
Base price: $67,300 (All prices exclude $1,450 destination charge)
On sale: Fall 2025
Power: Two electric motors, one on each axle
Output: 519 hp; 650 pound-feet of torque
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Battery: 85 kWh lithium-ion
Charging time: 240v: 18-31 mph; DC fast charge: 70 miles in 10 minutes.
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Wheelbase: 116 inches inches
Length: 190 inches
Width: 84 inches including mirrors
Height: 65 inches
Passenger volume: 100.1 cubic feet
Cargo capacity: 26 cubic feet behind second row, 57 behind first row
Towing capacity: None
Curb weight: 5,445 pounds
Assembled in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico
Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
