# 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Review

> Cadillac's understated electric SUV delivers driver engagement without shouting.
- Title: 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Review · Car and Driver | Shortify
- Summary: Cadillac's understated electric SUV delivers driver engagement without shouting. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V offers a balanced blend of performance and luxury…
- Keywords: cadillac, optiq-v, 2026, electric, suv, performance, luxury, cadillac optiq, cadillac electric, cars, Review, Car and Driver
- Source: Car and Driver — https://caranddriver.com/reviews/a69236637/2026-cadillac-optiq-v-drive
- Published: 2026-10-08T16:38:00+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: cadillac, optiq-v, 2026, electric, suv, performance, luxury, cadillac optiq, cadillac electric, cars
## 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.
## Key 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.