The Cadillac Optiq is the brand’s fourth EV following the Lyriq, Celestiq, and the Escalade IQ. The smallest and most affordable Cadillac EV in the U.S. is a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Lexus RZ.
Design
The Optiq is quite swanky and stands out in the current sea of crossovers. Compared to the Cadillac XT5, its gasoline counterpart, it has a more planted stance, which helps it convey a confident and aggressive look. With a longer, lower, and wider body, sharper lines, and refined surfaces, it feels sportier yet classy.
Like the Lyriq, the Optiq features a low hood, steeply raked windshield and back glass, vertical headlights, a smooth covered panel in place of a traditional radiator grille, a slim greenhouse, a thick C-pillar, and short overhangs. Similarly, the left-side quarter panel houses the charging port.
A thick slab of chrome below the hood shut line extends across the width, tapering off under the headlamps. The closed panel placed under the chrome trim contributes to the street presence of the SUV. While it is smaller than the XT5’s radiator grille, and more compact compared to the Lyriq’s closed panel, it effectively improves the Optiq’s overall aesthetic. Conversely, the functional air intake placed in the lower part of the front-end is notably larger, lending the Optiq a dominant and powerful look.
On the sides, the Optiq features a sleek and streamlined appearance, with a sloping roofline and narrowing greenhouse towards the rear. The door panels have smooth surfacing and integrate flush handles, exuding a refined look. The top-end configuration sports 21-inch wheels. The rear design, similar to the Lyriq, takes on an unconventional approach. The vertical split tail lights, integrated into the D-pillar, may not be the most visually appealing aspect of the SUV.
Interior
The Cadillac Optiq, although smaller and more affordable than the Lyriq, has a sophisticated interior and offers an impressive array of high-end features. The new EV features a sleek, low-profile dashboard, discreetly placed air-con vents, a 33-inch curved and ultra-wide LED cockpit display with 9K resolution, a sleek climate control panel, and a floating center console.
There are plenty of physical controls, including small buttons and knobs as well as a handy rotary dial. Metal decor, PaperWood veneer consisting of tulipwood and recycled paper, and subtle illuminations should give the driver and passengers a rich and upscale vibe.
The Optiq’s infotainment system is compatible with Google built-in. Customers won’t need to pair their smartphones to use some of their frequently used apps on the go, as some of them, such as Google Maps (called just ‘Maps’) and Google Assistant, will be preloaded, while others will be available to download through Google Play Store. Another tech highlight in the EV is a 19-speaker AKG audio system featuring Dolby Atmos.
Specifications
The Cadillac Optiq measures 190 in. in length, 84 in. in width, and 65 in. in height, has a 116 in. wheelbase and offers 6 in. of ground clearance. It has 26 cu. ft. of cargo space, which customers can expand to 57 cu. ft. by folding the rear seat backrests.
| Aspect | Cadillac Lyriq | Cadillac Optiq | Cadillac XT5 |
| Length | 196.7 in. | 189.8 in. | 189.6 in. |
| Width | 77.8 in. | 75.3 in. | 74.9 in. |
| Height | 64.3 in. | 64.7 in. | 66.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 122 in. | 116 in. | 112 in. |
The Optiq is available in the U.S. exclusively in all-wheel drive, with two motors producing 300 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. An 85 kWh battery pack supplies energy to these motors, and it supports charging at up to 19.2 kW (AC)/150 kW (DC) through a CCS Type 1 port. On a full charge, Cadillac estimates it will give the EV 300 miles of range.
Being smaller than the Lyriq, the Optiq will be targeted at younger customers. Its dedicated EV platform (a downsized version of the Lyriq’s BEV3) would mean no transmission tunnel, would mean no transmission tunnel, which would leave that area free for extra cabin room.
| Aspect | Cadillaq Optiq Specification |
| Length | 189.8 in. |
| Width | 75.3 in. |
| Height | 64.7 in. |
| Wheelbase | 116 in. |
| Turning Diameter | 39.8 ft. |
| Drivetrain Layout | AWD |
| Power | 300 hp |
| Torque | 354 lb.-ft. |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs. |
| Peak Charging Capacity | 19.2 kW (AC)/150 kW (DC) |
| Range | 300 miles (Cadillac-estimated) |
Price & Release Date
The Cadillac Optiq will start arriving at U.S. dealerships in late 2024. Its prices start at USD 54,390 (incl. USD 1,495 destination freight charge).
| Configuration | Cadillac Optiq Price |
| Luxury 1 | USD 54,390 |
| Sport 1 | USD 54,990 |
| Luxury 2 | USD 56,590 |
| Sport 2 | USD 57,090 |
The U.S. will get the Optiq from GM’s Ramos Arizpe Assembly in Mexico. General Motors also manufactures the model with its JV partner SAIC in Wuhan, China, for the local market.
TopElectricSUV says
Not all Cadillac aspirants can afford a Lyriq, nor do they need a vehicle that large. Customers looking for a zero-emissions luxury electric SUV that’s more affordable and smaller will find the Optiq suitable. With a sub-USD 55,000 base price, the mini Lyriq should pull many new young customers searching for their first luxury vehicle to the brand.
Cadillac Optiq FAQs
What is the Cadillac Optiq’s release date?
The Cadillac Optiq will start arriving at U.S. dealerships in late 2024.
What is the Cadillac Optiq’s price range?
The Optiq starts at USD 54,390 (incl. USD 1,495 destination freight charge).
Which are the alternatives to the Cadillac Optiq?
Featured Image Source: Cadillac
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 16 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading CEOs and vehicle developers from around the world.
