The 2025 OPTIQ is Cadillac’s new entry-level EV and, with the XT4 expected to be discontinued soon, the brand’s smallest SUV. Like the LYRIQ and Escalade IQ, the OPTIQ is built on GM’s Ultium electric platform, though it shares most of its components with the Chevrolet Equinox EV.
In fact, there are no technical differences between the two 2025 models. It brings to mind the Cadillac Cimarron of the 1980s, which was basically a rebadged Chevrolet Cavalier. Thankfully, the OPTIQ is built on much better foundations and is far more compelling.
Quintessential Cadillac Design
The new OPTIQ fits well within Cadillac’s evolving design language. It follows the design cues launched with the LYRIQ, and the styling scales down nicely here. All versions feature an illuminated grille and badge—a premium touch, even if it’s becoming more common.
The vertical lighting elements are eye-catching and give the OPTIQ a strong visual identity. Whether you choose the Luxury or Sport trim, 20-inch wheels come standard. Stepping up to 21-inch wheels costs $840, which is surprising given that the Equinox EV RS includes them by default.
The test model was painted Monarch Orange ($900) with a black roof ($825). One downside: the paint transition at the A-pillar is roughly finished. Cadillac offers six colour options. Around back, the rear quarter window has decorative texturing that might not age well. The signature vertical taillights remain but are split into two sections—a new feature for Cadillac’s EV era. Overall, even the base model delivers genuine style and a sense of luxury.
Inviting Cabin and High-Tech Feel
The Santorini Blue interior on our test unit looked fantastic. The colour adds a welcome dash of boldness. Cadillac’s expansive 33-inch curved display makes a strong impression, and the interface is intuitive after a short while. Drivers can choose from five different gauge cluster layouts depending on their mood or the amount of information they want.
The driving position feels more car-like than SUV, which is a plus. Visibility is decent, though like the Equinox EV, the A-pillars are thick. The front seats are comfortable and offer numerous adjustments, but rear-seat heating and ventilation are only available on higher trims.The AKG audio system with 19 speakers is a highlight—the sound is excellent. However, the reliance on Google’s built-in system means no Apple CarPlay, which is a major miss. That said, Cadillac makes up for it with interior colour choices: black, grey with Santorini blue, brown, and Phantom Blue.
Smart Cargo Space
Though the OPTIQ is Cadillac’s smallest EV SUV, it’s not that small at 4,820 mm long and a 2,954 mm wheelbase. The EV layout provides a spacious, uncluttered interior with numerous clever storage options.
The rear seats split 60/40 but don’t recline, and the upright angle might not suit everyone. Cargo volume is rated at 744 litres with the seats up and 1,603 litres with them down—more than both the Audi Q4 e-tron and Lexus RZ 450e.
Ultium Platform, But Not the Latest Tech
Built on GM’s Ultium architecture, the OPTIQ uses 10 lithium-ion battery modules totalling 85 kWh usable capacity. To keep costs down, it sticks with a 400V architecture instead of 800V like the Escalade IQ. That means slower charging.
Level 2 charging offers either 11.5 kW or an optional 19.2 kW onboard charger ($1,900). For DC fast charging, peak speed tops out at just 150 kW. Cadillac claims 486 km of range. During testing, energy use was approximately 19 kWh/100 km, indicating that the real-world range should be around 450 km.
All OPTIQs come standard with all-wheel drive thanks to dual motors delivering 228 kW (300 hp) and 354 lb-ft of torque. It’s the only available powertrain for now, but a 519 hp / 650 lb-ft “V” model is coming in 2026
Disappointing Ride
Performance is lively and fitting for the segment. However, under hard acceleration, there’s a noticeable vibration from the drivetrain. Four drive modes—Tour, Normal, Sport, and Individual—adjust throttle response, steering weight, regenerative braking, and synthesized motor sound.Cadillac offers multiple regen levels, including full one-pedal driving. However, the weakest point is the suspension. It feels too much like a Chevrolet, not enough like a Cadillac. The ride is choppy on rough roads and doesn’t feel especially planted. Hopefully, the upcoming V model will address this shortcoming.
Pricing and Trims
Built in Mexico, the OPTIQ comes in four trims: Luxury 1, Luxury 2, Sport 1, and Sport 2. Starting price is $63,433 for base Luxury and Sport 1, and $67,433 for the step-up trims. Differences are mostly cosmetic (window trim and wheels). Our test unit, with two paint options, rang in at $64,324. Pricing for the 2026 V model hasn’t been announced yet, but is expected to exceed $70,000.
Rivals include the Audi Q4 e-tron ($63,400 base) and Lexus RZ 450e ($63,030 base), but both require significant upgrades to match the OPTIQ’s equipment, often pushing their prices well over $70,000.
What to Watch For
While the OPTIQ is new, it shares most components with the Equinox EV, which has been on sale for two years. Early concerns include:
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12V battery drain
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Emergency braking issues, especially with Super Cruise active
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Occasionally sluggish infotainment performance
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High winter energy consumption, which significantly reduces range
These are worth monitoring for long-term reliability.Final Thoughts: A Strong Statement from Cadillac
The Cadillac OPTIQ makes a big impact. It’s well-sized, delivers suitable power and good range, and offers more equipment for the price than most competitors. It feels genuinely luxurious—something that’s not always a given in this segment.
It’s not perfect: the EV tech is basic, the ride lacks refinement, and the absence of Apple CarPlay is frustrating. Still, based on early impressions and its Equinox roots, the OPTIQ seems like a well-executed EV that competes aggressively with segment leaders.