Why GM chose to bring yet another brand to Australia
General Motors will soon have three brands being distributed across two retail channels in Australia, even though it no longer has a mass-market, high-volume marque here following the demise of Holden in 2020.
The GMC Yukon Denali is reaching dealers over the next couple of weeks, with first customer deliveries occurring over the third quarter of this year.
Like the Chevrolet Silverado, it's being remanufactured locally in right-hand drive by Walkinshaw Automotive, and sold through GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) showrooms.
Unusually, GM has chosen to launch the GMC Yukon here despite the Chevrolet and Cadillac brands offering the mechanically related Tahoe and Escalade, respectively.
GM has already confirmed Cadillac will be an electric-only brand in Australia, so why not launch full-size Chevrolet SUVs instead of debuting the GMC nameplate?
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
'If you look at the market here, it's really going to be those buyers that are either in the very top end of the LandCruiser space, the Mercedes, the Lexus, those larger SUVs – when you look at the appointments… it really is a premium level, and that's why that extra step up from a Chevy Tahoe to a GMC Yukon made more sense,' explained Jess Bala, managing director for GM Australia and New Zealand (GM ANZ).
'When it came to what we see the opportunity as, and when you look at that extra-large SUV space, and the price point that we're going to command and the level of technology, features, luxury appointments that need to go into that, that's why we felt the GMC Yukon Denali fit was better and more appropriate for that buyer, that segment, and the attributes that come with that car versus a Tahoe.'
However, the Tahoe can be had in a range of trims culminating in the High Country, which can be had with much of the same high-end features as the Yukon Denali including 24-inch alloy wheels, Magnetic Ride Control, adaptive air suspension, a head-up display, and a digital rear-view mirror.
In the US, it also comes with the same 6.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol V8.
It would therefore appear to be a simpler fit for GM Specialty Vehicle (GMSV) showrooms, and sit neatly alongside the Silverado pickup with which it's mechanically related.
'I wouldn't necessarily say it was simpler,' Ms Bala contested. 'When you look at the symmetry of the vehicles, specifically, I wouldn't say it's simpler.'
Notably, the Yukon has a different dashboard design to the Tahoe, featuring a portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen instead of the angled, landscape-oriented unit of the Chevy.
'From a branding standpoint, I understand the question for sure, but if we look at the price point and the positioning within our own parent company, GMC is the higher-specced, higher level of luxury vehicle so that's why we went down that path,' continued Ms Bala.
'It wasn't just a left-hand to right-hand drive conversion analysis, it was a bigger strategic play.'
Much as Cadillac is being rolled out to markets like ours and New Zealand, GMC is also being pushed outside of its traditional North America and Middle East domains.
GM launched the 'Professional Grade' brand in South Korea in 2022, where it offers only the Sierra 1500 in posh Denali and Denali-X guises. The brand is also being launched in China.
GMC used to be little more than another dealer network for Chevrolet, with its vehicles typically sold alongside Buick and Pontiac models and swapping the gold bow-tie for a red-letter badge… and receiving little else in the way of changes.
But in the 2000s, GM started making more of an effort to differentiate GMC models from Chevrolets in terms of sheetmetal and interior design, and the launch of the posh Denali trim level shortly before this in 1999 also started the brand on a path towards where it currently sits in the market.
In terms of positioning, GMC sits between Chevrolet and Cadillac, though it's not always as clean-cut as that – as mentioned, there are posh Chevy models available, while GMC still sells straight rebadges like the ancient Savana van.
'It's a brand that over time we've continued to reach higher and higher and take advantage of those white spaces, if you will, that exist in between the mainstream and the more obvious luxury brands,' said Tim Simmons, senior product marketing manager for GMC in the US.
Making GMC an easier brand to launch than, for example, Buick is the fact its name is almost identical to that of its parent company. But GM also says Australians love of American pop culture has given the brand a leg up.
'American pop culture helps us a lot here… We get people who know the GM brand, they recognise the car, they don't know necessarily what the badge on the front is but they know it's a GM car and they know that they've seen it in TV and that's the car they like, that's the car they want, we get asked all the time,' said GM International communications director Lauren Indiveri-Clarke.
'Cadillac was the same, people knew the brand Cadillac. Could they point to a logo? Probably not, but they'd heard of Cadillac.
'So when we launched it here, it was pretty easy for us to overcome that lack of brand recognition. We were able to say that it's a Cadillac and people knew that name. They didn't know that car was like a Cadillac because they hadn't seen the modern-day Cadillac, but they knew the name.'
Unlike Cadillac, the GMC Yukon Denali will be sold through GMSV showrooms alongside Chevrolet models.
'We care that it's GMC on the front, but customers are looking at it as a GM, it's part of the GM product portfolio,' said Ms Indiveri-Clarke.
That 'house of brands' approach allows GM ANZ to take vehicles from throughout GM's global portfolio, though it has ruled out offering any Buick models.
'We do have a job ahead of us to get the [GMC] brand familiarity up and awareness up and then ultimately consideration to buy the vehicle as well,' conceded Ms Bala.
GM isn't the only carmaker rolling out multiple brands successively in our market.
After relaunching here in 2023 as a factory-backed operation, Chery introduced its spinoff brand Jaecoo this year and will add the Omoda brand later this year. It has also confirmed the iCaur brand for our market.
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2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a 387kW Porsche Macan EV rival
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. "No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. "We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. "So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise." A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering". A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds. The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional. A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. "V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. "Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact." It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV. We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia. Content originally sourced from: The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. "No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. "We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. "So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise." A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering". A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds. The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional. A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. "V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. "Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact." It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV. We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia. Content originally sourced from: The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. "No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. "We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. "So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise." A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering". A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds. The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional. A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. "V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. "Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact." It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV. We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia. Content originally sourced from: The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. "No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V," GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. "We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. "So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise." A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a "harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety", and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has "tighter steering". A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that "enables a suite of traction management features", plus unique propulsion sounds. The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a "dark sport finish" are optional. A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. "V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience," said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. "Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact." It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV. We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia. Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
5 days ago
- 7NEWS
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a 387kW Porsche Macan EV rival
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. 'No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V,' GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. 'We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. 'So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise.' A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a 'harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety', and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has 'tighter steering'. A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that 'enables a suite of traction management features', plus unique propulsion sounds. The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a 'dark sport finish' are optional. A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. 'V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience,' said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. 'Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact.' It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV.
Perth Now
5 days ago
- Perth Now
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a 387kW Porsche Macan EV rival
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the second high-performance electric SUV to appear from General Motors' luxury brand, though it's not quite as powerful as the first. It incorporates a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 387kW of power and 880Nm of torque, up 163kW and 400Nm on the regular Optiq. Cadillac claims this 2470kg battery-powered SUV can complete the 0-60mph (0-96km/h) sprint in 3.5 seconds with launch control activated. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert For context, a similarly sized Porsche Macan 4S has 380kW of power and a 0-60mph claim of 3.9 seconds with launch control, though the Macan Turbo shades the Optiq-V with up to 470kW and a 3.1-second claim. Cadillac's own Lyriq-V produces 459kW/880Nm, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 3.3 seconds using launch control. While the Lyriq-V has been confirmed for an Australian launch in 2026, along with the regular Optiq and larger three-row Vistiq, GM Australia and New Zealand has previously indicated the Optiq-V isn't on the cards for local release. 'No, [Optiq-V isn't] coming here. We'll have a Lyriq-V,' GM ANZ managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in May. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'We haven't done a V-Series here before, so we want to assess that one first and then we have to look at different regulations within battery architectures and things like that. 'So we'll start with Lyriq-V, and we'll continue to assess if there are opportunities that arise.' A GM ANZ spokesperson had no further comment when asked today about the Optiq-V's chances, and the official press release notes availability only in North America, the Middle East and Israel. The Optiq-V features the same 85kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery as the regular Optiq, though range under the stricter US EPA test cycle drops to 443km, down from 486km. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It'll be GM's first EV with a native North American Charging Standard inlet, allowing it to be compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network in North America. On a DC fast-charger, GM says the Optiq-V can gain 113km of range in 10 minutes. Cadillac has followed largely the same formula with the Optiq-V as with the Lyriq-V. To that end, both have five-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control adaptive dampers, as well as Brembo front brake calipers. The luxury brand says it prioritised a 'harmonious balance of aerodynamics, weight distribution, agility and safety', and in addition to the suspension upgrades it says the Optiq-V has 'tighter steering'. A V-Mode, activated by pressing the V button on the steering wheel, allows drivers to save performance-focused settings including a Competitive Mode that 'enables a suite of traction management features', plus unique propulsion sounds. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Optiq-V is distinguished from the regular Optiq by unique front-end styling, with the trademark V-Series grille mesh pattern found in the lower grille. There's also a revised upper grille area, a high-gloss black front splitter, and body-coloured lower trim, while down back there's a gloss black diffuser. A carbon-fibre front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler are available in a special carbon package. The Optiq-V rides on 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and a laser-etched V-Series badge; 21-inch wheels with a 'dark sport finish' are optional. Supplied Credit: CarExpert A fixed panoramic glass roof with a black surround is standard, while Magnus Metal Frost metallic matte grey exterior paint – as seen on the Lyriq-V – is optional along with the featured Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Indeed, Cadillac has taken the blue of the V-Series logo and gone to town with it. Those Brembo front brake calipers can be had in blue or red, blue accents can be found within the rear quarter windows, and prominent blue accents can be found inside the cabin. You can have the Optiq-V with either a Noir (black) interior or two-tone Noir and Sky Cool Grey, but both come standard with Santorini Blue accents. There's blue trim across the front of the dash, on the doors, and even the seats feature blue piping. The front seatbacks are also finished almost entirely in blue. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Optiq-V gets a unique darker patterned accent fabric woven from yarn made from 100 per cent recycled materials, while the centre console has genuine woven carbon-fibre trim. V-Series logos can be found embroidered on the seats, etched on the sill plates, and dotted elsewhere in the cabin. Otherwise, the basic layout of the Optiq's interior carries over, including a 33-inch curved display incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The infotainment system features Google built-in, with embedded Google apps such as Google Maps and more available to download through the Google Play Store. There's also a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with Dolby Atmos. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Like almost every Cadillac, Super Cruise hands-free highway driving is standard. This Level 2+ autonomous driving technology is yet to be offered in any Australian-market GM vehicle. The Optiq-V is priced from US$68,795 (~A$105,000), while the core Optiq lineup is priced from US$54,390 to $57,090 (~A$83,000 to $87,500). Production starts in the autumn (our spring) of 2025. 'V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac's performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience,' said John Roth, vice president of global Cadillac. 'Optiq-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac's global impact.' Supplied Credit: CarExpert It's just a tenth of a second slower to 60mph than the supercharged V8-powered CT5-V Blackwing sedan when equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Though the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V (pictured above) are quick, they're quite different from the traditionally V8-powered models that have worn the V-Series nameplate over the years. Cadillac's first V-Series model was the 2004 CTS-V sedan, which featured an overhead-valve 5.7-litre V8 (later a 6.0-litre) shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, mated with a six-speed manual transmission. It was soon joined by the STS-V sedan and XLR-V convertible (pictured below with the first CTS-V), which used a supercharged version of Cadillac's Northstar overhead-cam V8, mated with a six-speed automatic. Supplied Credit: CarExpert These lasted a single generation, but the CTS-V went for two more generations, both with supercharged V8 power. V-Series models were later joined by tamer VSport models, which swapped V8 power for twin-turbo V6s. That said, not every hardcore V-Series model has packed a bent-eight, with the BMW M3-rivalling ATS-V for example being the first V with a twin-turbo V6. In recent years, Cadillac revised its V-Series strategy, rolling out models like the CT4-V and CT5-V that are less powerful than previous Vs (the CT4-V even comes with a four-cylinder engine, a first for a V-Series), but replacing the full-fat ATS-V and CTS-V models with new CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models. It also introduced the first ever Escalade-V, marking the first time the V-Series name has been used on an SUV. We've missed out on all of these hot combustion-powered Caddys, and will continue to do so as GM ANZ has confirmed the luxury American brand will be EV-only in Australia.
