2026 Cadillac Optiq-V

• The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V adds punch to Cadillac’s compact EV crossover lineup.

• Performance styling is aggressive but stops short of looking cartoonish.

• Aimed squarely at the dual-motor EV crowd—think Mach-E GT and Model Y Performance.

A Sharper Edge for Cadillac’s Compact EV

Cadillac isn’t easing into this whole EV transition. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is their latest entry—and it doesn’t read like a half-measure. It’s the performance-oriented version of the new Optiq, and it brings just enough V-Series attitude to feel legitimate.

This isn’t just some trim package. The Optiq-V gets dual motors, all-wheel drive, and a noticeably more aggressive look. Think of it as Cadillac’s shot at the global performance EV segment, without shouting about it.

Design That Actually Looks Fast

First impressions? Sharp. The front end is where the drama lives. Vertical LED blades cut into the air like claws, and the blackout grille has more structure than the regular Optiq—almost chiseled, like it was carved with intention. The lower rear bumper and diffuser get gloss black treatments, subtle but effective. It sits wider and lower visually, and that’s the point.

Proportions are clean. No strange overhangs or lumpy rear quarters. The 21-inch wheels aren’t oversized for the body, and the black rocker panel trims give the lower half of the car some necessary visual gravity. It all works together—aggressive but still tidy.

Interior Tweaks That Matter

Inside, the changes are smart, not excessive. V-Series trim touches include a flat-bottom steering wheel and contrasting interior accents that feel a bit sportier without trying to fake a race car. One of the more thoughtful bits? Magnesium paddles behind the wheel—not for shifting gears, but for dialing in regenerative braking on the fly.

It’s one of those features you don’t think you need until you start playing with it.

Powertrain: Punch Over Range

Cadillac confirmed the Optiq-V will feature an 85-kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel drive setup. Horsepower numbers? Not official yet. But they’ve said it’ll be the most powerful Optiq variant. Translation: well above the standard model’s 300 hp.

That extra power will likely eat into the base model’s 300-mile range, but that’s the trade-off. Drivers in this segment care more about off-the-line punch than an extra 30 miles of range.

Lining Up Against the Right Rivals

Make no mistake—this is Cadillac aiming at a sweet spot in the global EV market. The Optiq-V is squaring off against the Tesla Model Y Performance, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, and maybe even the Kia EV6 GT. Similar footprint, similar price range, but Cadillac’s bringing some V-Series heritage to the table.

It’s less about max output, more about carving out a personality in a space that’s getting crowded fast.

Technical Specification

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Performance

• Power Output: 519 hp (387 kW), 650 lb‑ft (880 Nm) torque

• 0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds (Velocity Max with Launch Control) 

Body Measurements

• Length: 190 in (4,826 mm)

• Width: (not specified)

• Height / Wheelbase: (not specified)

Powertrain

• Battery Pack: 85 kWh lithium-ion

• Drivetrain: Dual‑motor, all‑wheel drive

• Charging Port: Native NACS (no adapter needed) 

Capacities

• Electric Range: Estimated 275 miles (EPA pending) 

• Charging (AC): Up to 11.5 kW → ~31 miles/hour

Price

• Starting MSRP: $68,795 (includes $1,495 destination; excludes tax, title, license, fees)

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