2026 Cadillac Optiq-V First Look

Optiq-V Delivers True V-Series Performance

Cadillac is expanding its portfolio of high-performance electric vehicles with the new-for-2026 Optiq-V. The second EV to be massaged by Cadillac’s V-Series skunkworks team, the Optiq-V promises big performance in a small package and Tesla Supercharger access right out of the gate.

The Optiq-V joins the V-Series lineup alongside the larger and more expensive Lyriq-V, the first electric Caddy to get the high-performance treatment. Though it's positioned below the Lyriq-V in Cadillac's pecking order, the Optiq-V delivers the same performance wallop.

In fact, the Optiq-V's performance specs are nearly identical to those of its bigger sibling: both performance crossovers are equipped with dual motors producing a combined 650 pound-feet of torque. The Lyriq-V has an advantage in horsepower (615 to the Optiq-V’s 519 hp), but that’s not much of a factor when it comes to acceleration. The Lyriq-V remains the quickest Caddy ever, with a 0-60mph time of 3.3 seconds, but the Optiq-V nips closely at its heels with a 3.5-second run. Given that the average human reaction time is about 0.2 seconds, the winner in a real-world drag race would likely be a toss-up.

But the Optiq-V is more than just a straight-line road warrior. Cadillac promises it rides and handles like a proper V-Series model, thanks to tighter steering, an enhanced suspension system, and available grippy summer tires (all-seasons are standard). Braking performance is also improved with front Brembo calipers available in either blue or red paint, both with the V-Series logo.

Athletic Looks

The V-Series treatment extends to the Optiq’s exterior design which sports a unique front fascia, including a V-patterned lower mesh grille. You’ll find a gloss black front splitter and rear diffuser, body-colored lower trim, and blue accents on the rear quarter windows inspired by the V-Series badge.

Speaking of badges, the V emblem appears throughout: etched into the driver's-side grillette, on the standard 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels, and affixed to the liftgate and rear doors.

Buyers can further amplify the Optiq-V’s sporty exterior appearance with an optional carbon fiber package (which adds a carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler) and a set of polished and painted 21-inch wheels with a dark sport finish.

Inside, the Optiq-V Gets Physical and Digital Upgrades

Dark-patterned accent fabric, exclusive to the Optiq-V, is woven from 100% recycled yarn. Door panels feature accent stitching in Santorini Blue, a V-Series signature hue, which carries over to the seating surfaces. The center console is trimmed in genuine carbon fiber, and V-Series badging appears throughout the cabin.

Optiq-V buyers can choose between two interior color palettes: Noir with Santorini Blue accents, or Noir and Sky Cool Gray with Santorini Blue accents. If that’s not enough Santorini Blue, an optional interior package adds the hue to the seat back panels and seatbelts, too.  

To get the most out of its upgraded hardware, the Optiq-V is equipped with a V-Mode that is not found in other Optiq models. Accessed via either a steering wheel-mounted button or an app within the Optiq’s infotainment system, V-Mode allows the driver to instantly engage pre-set performance settings like Competitive mode, which alters the EV’s traction management system to increase overall agility.

Like other Optiq trims, the V-Series model is well equipped. Standard features include a 33-inch-diagonal LED display, a 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio System, Google built-in, and Cadillac’s semi-autonomous Super Cruise driving system.

Battery, Range, and Charging

The Optiq-V used the same 85-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack as the standard Optiq. But its dual-motor setup means it's less efficient: range is estimated at 275 miles per charge, compared to 302 miles in the base model.

However, the Optiq-V should be easier to charge. It’s the first General Motors vehicle to come standard with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging port, meaning it can top off its battery at a Tesla Supercharger without an adapter.

According to Cadillac, the Optiq-V adds 70 miles of range in 10 minutes when hooked to a DC fast-charger. It’s also equipped with an 11.5-kilowatt onboard charger for home charging.  

Pricing and Availability

Pricing for the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V starts from $68,795, including destination. Production of the Optiq-V kicks off this fall, with the first deliveries commencing shortly after.

Related Articles: