The Cadillac Optiq Makes a Hell of an Entrance Onto the EV Scene

The Optiq is the entry point for customers looking to join the Cadillac fold, and not only in terms of the brand’s growing EV portfolio. It will also replace the XT4, and the compact electric SUV is key to expanding Cadillac’s fortunes in Europe. In its second model year, the 2026 Optiq has two new powertrain options: a new base single motor on the rear axle and a new setup for the dual-motor AWD model for a heck of a power and torque increase, to 440 horsepower from 300 and 498 lb-ft from 354.

With a standard NACS charging port and driving range of 280–300 miles, depending on the model, this EV SUV is competitive. But charging speed is not luxury-level, which kept it from being a finalist.

“The interior is visually fantastic—tweedlike fabrics, felt textures, and bold use of white and silver,” editorial boss Ed Loh said. Indeed, there is a lovely mixture of cloth and leather, with attention to detail like the plastic piece on the cantilevered center console that matches the cloth’s metallic weave but won’t be ruined by spilled drinks in the cupholder. The look is modern and edgy while still emanating warmth.

There is a large 33.0-inch digital display for an infotainment system that uses Google Built-In, but there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto—a dealbreaker for some. Kudos to Cadillac, though, for retaining familiar controls for things like steering wheel adjustments instead of burying them in screens.

We also applaud the brand-specific buttons and switchgear, a departure from parts-sharing with Chevrolet in the past. There is clever integration of the hidden wireless phone charger, which lets the top of the phone peek out for notifications, plus real buttons for climate control and fantastic adjustment knobs for air vents. Rear passengers have heated seats and easily accessible USB and power outlets. It doesn’t have a frunk, but the cargo area, accessed by pushing the Cadillac logo, is spacious and has a cargo cover and soft carpeting.

The quiet cabin was designed specifically to be compatible with Dolby Atmos for a premium AKG audio system, which is standard. “This might be one of the nicest interiors in an entry-level luxury car, ever,” associate editor Alex Leanse said.

In terms of ride quality, the Optiq is settled and comfortable, with excellent damping, body control, and composure for a little EV. It also offers lots of grunt for passing with great accelerator response, quickly gets to its 112-mph top speed, and delivers good stopping power and brake feel. The Optiq also has one-pedal driving and comes with three years of Super Cruise.

Our judges debated its value, however, with most of them calling it a premium vehicle at a compelling price point. Features editor Christian Seabaugh, on the other hand, insisted the larger Cadillac Lyriq is the better value play.

Overall, though, “The Optiq distinguishes itself in a crowded segment,” Mexico editor Miguel Cortina said. “Its designers should be proud of themselves for finding the right materials for a cabin that stands out and brings new, young buyers to a brand that was known to serve an older demographic.”

This review was conducted as part of our 2026 SUV of the Year (SUVOTY) testing, where each vehicle is evaluated on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be all-new or significantly revised.