From Car and Driver · · 2m
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Review
Cadillac's understated electric SUV delivers driver engagement without shouting.
In brief
Cadillac's understated electric SUV delivers driver engagement without shouting. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V offers a balanced blend of performance and luxury, making it a credible daily driver with strong handling and a refined interior. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
Quick answers
- What is the Optiq-V?
- Cadillac's new 2026 electric SUV features a performance subbrand V that emphasizes driver engagement without track focus.
- What is the key takeaway from 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Review?
- The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V offers a balanced blend of performance and luxury, making it a credible daily driver with strong handling and a refined interior.
What is the Optiq-V?
Cadillac's new 2026 electric SUV features a performance subbrand V that emphasizes driver engagement without track focus.
Performance specs
The Optiq-V delivers 519 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque in full Velocity Max mode, up from 440 hp and 498 pound-feet in the standard model.
Charging capabilities
The Optiq-V supports up to 150 kilowatts of fast charging, adding about 70 miles of range in 10 minutes.
Chassis upgrades
Engineers increased front spring rates by 21 percent and rear rates by 32 percent, with front anti-roll bar stiffness up 47 percent and rear bar stiffness up 185 percent.
Braking and tires
The Optiq-V uses 15.4-inch front and 13.6-inch rear disc brakes with optional low-metallic-content brake linings that create more brake dust.
Interior features
The cabin includes blue accents, V badges on seats, a 33-inch curved infotainment display, and Super Cruise hands-free driving.
Driving experience
The Optiq-V shows a taut connection to the road with supple handling, achieving a 3.4-second 60-mph time and 12.2-second quarter-mile run.
Real-world performance
On highways, the Optiq-V feels less motivated than its maximum power numbers suggest, with a 0.94-g cornering grip and 151-foot stopping distance from 70 mph.
Test results
The Optiq-V achieved a 3.4-second 60-mph time, 12.2-second quarter-mile run at 108 mph, and a 151-foot stopping distance from 70 mph.
Price and options
The base price is $69,095 with options adding up to $79,226, including a 19.2-kW charger and 21-inch summer tires.
Verdict
The Optiq-V is a highly engaging, well-judged EV SUV that balances sportiness with luxury, making it a credible daily driver.
Why it stands out
Unlike most performance SUVs, the Optiq-V avoids shouting its intentions, offering a classy, low-key driving experience that appeals to both enthusiasts and daily drivers.
What it's good for
The Optiq-V is ideal for drivers seeking a balance of performance, handling, and luxury without the track-focused intensity of other high-performance vehicles.
What it's not for
The Optiq-V is not designed for track use, as its handling is more focused on daily driving than high-speed cornering.
The takeaway
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V offers a balanced blend of performance and luxury, making it a credible daily driver with strong handling and a refined interior.
