Latest news with #JessBala
7NEWS
07-08-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
2025 Cadillac Optiq: Tesla Model Y rival's interior revealed
The interior of the Cadillac Optiq, the American luxury brand's new entry-level electric SUV, has been revealed. The General Motors-owned brand, which will re-enter the Australian market this year, has confirmed the Optiq will appear at this month's Beijing motor show, which starts on April 25. We expect Cadillac to finally publish specifications for the new SUV at this time, though we do know from an earlier Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology filing that it'll offer 150kW or 180kW outputs. The Optiq measures 4822mm long, 1912mm wide and 1642mm tall on a 2954mm wheelbase, which makes it 72mm longer, 66mm narrower and 18mm taller than a Tesla Model Y. Before the Optiq's in-person debut, Cadillac has released a raft of interior images of its Model Y rival. The Optiq closely resembles the larger Lyriq inside, down to the door-mounted power seat controls and the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen neatly integrated in one wraparound assembly. There are some key differences from its larger sibling, however. The pictured example features bold, metallic blue trim running from one side of the dash through to the centre. This matches the dark blue textured inserts on the lower half of the doors. The compartment under the centre stack controls doesn't have a door like in the Lyriq, while the floating centre console has a different shape. The Optiq debuted in November 2023, and while GM hasn't officially confirmed it for our market, it has trademarked its name locally. It has also trademarked the Vistiq and Escalade iQ nameplates. These are larger electric SUVs joining the Cadillac stable. The Lyriq will spearhead the brand's return to Australia late this year, but it mightn't be alone in Cadillac showrooms for long. General Motors (GM) Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in March that announcements of new Cadillac models beyond the Lyriq will come 'towards the end of the year, early next year'. 'We want to get [the] Lyriq out and do an awesome job with [the] Lyriq first as well,' said Ms Bala. 'We do want to obviously give that incredible car its time as well, but also want to give everyone the confidence knowing that it's not just one entry, we have more amazing cars coming.' In response to whether the Optiq, Vistiq and Escalade iQ are the next vehicles coming to Australia, Ms Bala said 'there are more EVs coming, obviously we'll confirm what they are at a later date'. She stopped short of confirming whether all these vehicles will come here. 'I will say that just from a process standpoint, whenever we, GM, have new vehicles coming in, trademark a name because we've decided well in advance what our vehicles are going to be called,' said Ms Bala. 'We do generally go out globally and trademark them everywhere because in the instance we do decide to bring a vehicle somewhere, we want that consistency to be there from a brand standpoint.' Cadillac intends to stick with an electric-only strategy in Australia. It's aiming to be EV-only by 2030 globally. The brand will launch with three retail stores, or 'Cadillac Experience Centres': Melbourne and Sydney in Australia, and Auckland in New Zealand. Executives have made multiple mentions of Cadillacs selling in 'exclusive volumes', though Ms Bala has been enthusiastic about its chances. 'It's going to do incredibly well here,' said Ms Bala late last year, saying Cadillac will appeal to luxury car buyers who want to stand out and who consider themselves trendsetters. Despite all the talk of 'exclusive volumes', Ms Bala said pricing of its debut model in Australia, the Lyriq, wouldn't be lofty. 'It'll be priced competitively inside that mid-sized SUV [segment],' said Ms Bala, confirming the Lyriq will battle similarly sized electric SUVs from European luxury brands like the BMW iX. The company wouldn't confirm pricing, but the Lyriq starts at the equivalent of around A$90,000 in the US. In addition to selling vehicles through separate retail spaces, GM indicated there will be a different after-sales experience for Cadillac vehicles vis-à-vis those sold in GMSV showrooms. 'We're all about providing an elevated luxurious experience to that customer from the minute they may enter their details in a website or visit one of our Cadillac Experience Centres, all the way through to purchase and beyond that,' said Ms Bala. 'Because we know that your purchase doesn't end the minute that we hand you the keys to your vehicle, it's an ongoing relationship that we want to maintain and provide something that is very consistent. 'A very high-end customer experience, sort of like that 'white glove' that you would expect as a luxury customer to get.'
Perth Now
07-08-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2025 Cadillac Optiq: Tesla Model Y rival's interior revealed
The interior of the Cadillac Optiq, the American luxury brand's new entry-level electric SUV, has been revealed. The General Motors-owned brand, which will re-enter the Australian market this year, has confirmed the Optiq will appear at this month's Beijing motor show, which starts on April 25. We expect Cadillac to finally publish specifications for the new SUV at this time, though we do know from an earlier Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology filing that it'll offer 150kW or 180kW outputs. The Optiq measures 4822mm long, 1912mm wide and 1642mm tall on a 2954mm wheelbase, which makes it 72mm longer, 66mm narrower and 18mm taller than a Tesla Model Y. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Before the Optiq's in-person debut, Cadillac has released a raft of interior images of its Model Y rival. The Optiq closely resembles the larger Lyriq inside, down to the door-mounted power seat controls and the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen neatly integrated in one wraparound assembly. There are some key differences from its larger sibling, however. The pictured example features bold, metallic blue trim running from one side of the dash through to the centre. This matches the dark blue textured inserts on the lower half of the doors. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The compartment under the centre stack controls doesn't have a door like in the Lyriq, while the floating centre console has a different shape. The Optiq debuted in November 2023, and while GM hasn't officially confirmed it for our market, it has trademarked its name locally. It has also trademarked the Vistiq and Escalade iQ nameplates. These are larger electric SUVs joining the Cadillac stable. The Lyriq will spearhead the brand's return to Australia late this year, but it mightn't be alone in Cadillac showrooms for long. Supplied Credit: CarExpert General Motors (GM) Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala told CarExpert in March that announcements of new Cadillac models beyond the Lyriq will come 'towards the end of the year, early next year'. 'We want to get [the] Lyriq out and do an awesome job with [the] Lyriq first as well,' said Ms Bala. 'We do want to obviously give that incredible car its time as well, but also want to give everyone the confidence knowing that it's not just one entry, we have more amazing cars coming.' In response to whether the Optiq, Vistiq and Escalade iQ are the next vehicles coming to Australia, Ms Bala said 'there are more EVs coming, obviously we'll confirm what they are at a later date'. Supplied Credit: CarExpert She stopped short of confirming whether all these vehicles will come here. 'I will say that just from a process standpoint, whenever we, GM, have new vehicles coming in, trademark a name because we've decided well in advance what our vehicles are going to be called,' said Ms Bala. 'We do generally go out globally and trademark them everywhere because in the instance we do decide to bring a vehicle somewhere, we want that consistency to be there from a brand standpoint.' Cadillac intends to stick with an electric-only strategy in Australia. It's aiming to be EV-only by 2030 globally. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The brand will launch with three retail stores, or 'Cadillac Experience Centres': Melbourne and Sydney in Australia, and Auckland in New Zealand. Executives have made multiple mentions of Cadillacs selling in 'exclusive volumes', though Ms Bala has been enthusiastic about its chances. 'It's going to do incredibly well here,' said Ms Bala late last year, saying Cadillac will appeal to luxury car buyers who want to stand out and who consider themselves trendsetters. Despite all the talk of 'exclusive volumes', Ms Bala said pricing of its debut model in Australia, the Lyriq, wouldn't be lofty. 'It'll be priced competitively inside that mid-sized SUV [segment],' said Ms Bala, confirming the Lyriq will battle similarly sized electric SUVs from European luxury brands like the BMW iX. Vistiq Credit: CarExpert Escalade iQ Credit: CarExpert Lyriq Credit: CarExpert The company wouldn't confirm pricing, but the Lyriq starts at the equivalent of around A$90,000 in the US. In addition to selling vehicles through separate retail spaces, GM indicated there will be a different after-sales experience for Cadillac vehicles vis-à-vis those sold in GMSV showrooms. 'We're all about providing an elevated luxurious experience to that customer from the minute they may enter their details in a website or visit one of our Cadillac Experience Centres, all the way through to purchase and beyond that,' said Ms Bala. 'Because we know that your purchase doesn't end the minute that we hand you the keys to your vehicle, it's an ongoing relationship that we want to maintain and provide something that is very consistent. 'A very high-end customer experience, sort of like that 'white glove' that you would expect as a luxury customer to get.' MORE: Cadillac commits to selling only electric cars in AustraliaMORE: Cadillac getting ready to roll out more electric cars in AustraliaMORE: Cadillac locked in for Australia in 2024: Everything you need to knowMORE: Cadillac Optiq revealed as luxurious Tesla Model Y rival
The Advertiser
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Chevrolet Corvette 'Zora': Twin-turbo V8 hybrid almost ready for unveiling
The eighth-generation, or C8, Chevrolet Corvette has broken a lot of new ground – think mid-engine layout, twin-turbo engine, and electric propulsion – and now it's about to merge all those ideas into one model. In a short video on Instagram, Chevrolet says: "The hype is real. A new Corvette is coming." The new Corvette variant will be revealed on June 17 US time, and will have some sort of X-releated branding, if the end of the video (bottom) is anything to go by. In previous rumours and reports the car was referred to as Zora, after Zora Arkus-Duntov, a former chief engineer of the Corvette in the 1960s and a proponent of switching the car to a mid-engine layout. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Apparently Chevrolet has gone cold on the name, but the Zora, or whatever it will be called, has been spied on and around the Nurburgring by our spy photography agency. The Zora will reportedly mate the ZR1's 5.5-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 with the E-Ray's electric motor to create a new range-topping performance model. According to our spy agency, the monster can be heard from miles away, and sounds particularly excellent when shifting gears. Visually the prototype is a dead-ringer for the production ZR1, except for the downturned quad exhaust tips, the high-voltage warning sticker on the window, and Michigan manufacturer plates. In the ZR1, the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 punches out a mighty 783kW and 1123Nm, and is hooked up to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. When equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1 can zip through the 0-60mph (0-97km/h) standard in 2.3 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 is expected to paired with the Corvette E-Ray's electric motor, which develops 120kW and 165Nm, drives the front wheels, and is connected up to a 1.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In the E-Ray, the electric motor allows for silent, leisurely front-wheel electric-only driving, as well as improved traction and more power during spirited driving. It's likely it will serve the same purpose in the Zora. While the Stingray, E-Ray and Z06 are all built in both left- and right-hand drive at GM's Bowling Green factory in Kentucky, allowing them to be sold in Australia, the ZR1 is a left-hand drive-only affair. However, according to GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala, this doesn't automatically rule out the Zora being available in right-hand drive. MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette Content originally sourced from: The eighth-generation, or C8, Chevrolet Corvette has broken a lot of new ground – think mid-engine layout, twin-turbo engine, and electric propulsion – and now it's about to merge all those ideas into one model. In a short video on Instagram, Chevrolet says: "The hype is real. A new Corvette is coming." The new Corvette variant will be revealed on June 17 US time, and will have some sort of X-releated branding, if the end of the video (bottom) is anything to go by. In previous rumours and reports the car was referred to as Zora, after Zora Arkus-Duntov, a former chief engineer of the Corvette in the 1960s and a proponent of switching the car to a mid-engine layout. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Apparently Chevrolet has gone cold on the name, but the Zora, or whatever it will be called, has been spied on and around the Nurburgring by our spy photography agency. The Zora will reportedly mate the ZR1's 5.5-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 with the E-Ray's electric motor to create a new range-topping performance model. According to our spy agency, the monster can be heard from miles away, and sounds particularly excellent when shifting gears. Visually the prototype is a dead-ringer for the production ZR1, except for the downturned quad exhaust tips, the high-voltage warning sticker on the window, and Michigan manufacturer plates. In the ZR1, the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 punches out a mighty 783kW and 1123Nm, and is hooked up to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. When equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1 can zip through the 0-60mph (0-97km/h) standard in 2.3 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 is expected to paired with the Corvette E-Ray's electric motor, which develops 120kW and 165Nm, drives the front wheels, and is connected up to a 1.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In the E-Ray, the electric motor allows for silent, leisurely front-wheel electric-only driving, as well as improved traction and more power during spirited driving. It's likely it will serve the same purpose in the Zora. While the Stingray, E-Ray and Z06 are all built in both left- and right-hand drive at GM's Bowling Green factory in Kentucky, allowing them to be sold in Australia, the ZR1 is a left-hand drive-only affair. However, according to GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala, this doesn't automatically rule out the Zora being available in right-hand drive. MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette Content originally sourced from: The eighth-generation, or C8, Chevrolet Corvette has broken a lot of new ground – think mid-engine layout, twin-turbo engine, and electric propulsion – and now it's about to merge all those ideas into one model. In a short video on Instagram, Chevrolet says: "The hype is real. A new Corvette is coming." The new Corvette variant will be revealed on June 17 US time, and will have some sort of X-releated branding, if the end of the video (bottom) is anything to go by. In previous rumours and reports the car was referred to as Zora, after Zora Arkus-Duntov, a former chief engineer of the Corvette in the 1960s and a proponent of switching the car to a mid-engine layout. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Apparently Chevrolet has gone cold on the name, but the Zora, or whatever it will be called, has been spied on and around the Nurburgring by our spy photography agency. The Zora will reportedly mate the ZR1's 5.5-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 with the E-Ray's electric motor to create a new range-topping performance model. According to our spy agency, the monster can be heard from miles away, and sounds particularly excellent when shifting gears. Visually the prototype is a dead-ringer for the production ZR1, except for the downturned quad exhaust tips, the high-voltage warning sticker on the window, and Michigan manufacturer plates. In the ZR1, the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 punches out a mighty 783kW and 1123Nm, and is hooked up to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. When equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1 can zip through the 0-60mph (0-97km/h) standard in 2.3 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 is expected to paired with the Corvette E-Ray's electric motor, which develops 120kW and 165Nm, drives the front wheels, and is connected up to a 1.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In the E-Ray, the electric motor allows for silent, leisurely front-wheel electric-only driving, as well as improved traction and more power during spirited driving. It's likely it will serve the same purpose in the Zora. While the Stingray, E-Ray and Z06 are all built in both left- and right-hand drive at GM's Bowling Green factory in Kentucky, allowing them to be sold in Australia, the ZR1 is a left-hand drive-only affair. However, according to GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala, this doesn't automatically rule out the Zora being available in right-hand drive. MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette Content originally sourced from: The eighth-generation, or C8, Chevrolet Corvette has broken a lot of new ground – think mid-engine layout, twin-turbo engine, and electric propulsion – and now it's about to merge all those ideas into one model. In a short video on Instagram, Chevrolet says: "The hype is real. A new Corvette is coming." The new Corvette variant will be revealed on June 17 US time, and will have some sort of X-releated branding, if the end of the video (bottom) is anything to go by. In previous rumours and reports the car was referred to as Zora, after Zora Arkus-Duntov, a former chief engineer of the Corvette in the 1960s and a proponent of switching the car to a mid-engine layout. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Apparently Chevrolet has gone cold on the name, but the Zora, or whatever it will be called, has been spied on and around the Nurburgring by our spy photography agency. The Zora will reportedly mate the ZR1's 5.5-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 with the E-Ray's electric motor to create a new range-topping performance model. According to our spy agency, the monster can be heard from miles away, and sounds particularly excellent when shifting gears. Visually the prototype is a dead-ringer for the production ZR1, except for the downturned quad exhaust tips, the high-voltage warning sticker on the window, and Michigan manufacturer plates. In the ZR1, the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 punches out a mighty 783kW and 1123Nm, and is hooked up to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. When equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1 can zip through the 0-60mph (0-97km/h) standard in 2.3 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 is expected to paired with the Corvette E-Ray's electric motor, which develops 120kW and 165Nm, drives the front wheels, and is connected up to a 1.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In the E-Ray, the electric motor allows for silent, leisurely front-wheel electric-only driving, as well as improved traction and more power during spirited driving. It's likely it will serve the same purpose in the Zora. While the Stingray, E-Ray and Z06 are all built in both left- and right-hand drive at GM's Bowling Green factory in Kentucky, allowing them to be sold in Australia, the ZR1 is a left-hand drive-only affair. However, according to GM Australia and New Zealand managing director Jess Bala, this doesn't automatically rule out the Zora being available in right-hand drive. MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette Content originally sourced from:
Perth Now
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Chevrolet Corvette 'Zora': Twin-turbo V8 hybrid almost ready for unveiling
The eighth-generation, or C8, Chevrolet Corvette has broken a lot of new ground — think mid-engine layout, twin-turbo engine, and electric propulsion — and now it's about to merge all those ideas into one model. In a short video on Instagram, Chevrolet says: 'The hype is real. A new Corvette is coming.' The new Corvette variant will be revealed on June 17 US time, and will have some sort of X-releated branding, if the end of the video (bottom) is anything to go by. In previous rumours and reports the car was referred to as Zora, after Zora Arkus-Duntov, a former chief engineer of the Corvette in the 1960s and a proponent of switching the car to a mid-engine layout. 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 Apparently Chevrolet has gone cold on the name, but the Zora, or whatever it will be called, has been spied on and around the Nurburgring by our spy photography agency. The Zora will reportedly mate the ZR1's 5.5-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 with the E-Ray's electric motor to create a new range-topping performance model. According to our spy agency, the monster can be heard from miles away, and sounds particularly excellent when shifting gears. Visually the prototype is a dead-ringer for the production ZR1, except for the downturned quad exhaust tips, the high voltage warning sticker on the window, and Michigan manufacturer's plates. Supplied Credit: CarExpert In the ZR1, the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 punches out a mighty 783kW and 1123Nm, and is hooked up to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. When equipped with the ZTK Performance Package, the ZR1 can zip through the 0-60mph (0-97km/h) standard in 2.3 seconds. The twin-turbo V8 is expected to paired with the Corvette E-Ray's electric motor, which develops 120kW and 165Nm, drives the front wheels, and is connected up to a 1.9kWh lithium-ion battery. In the E-Ray, the electric motor allows for silent, leisurely front-wheel electric-only driving, as well as improved traction and more power during spirited driving. It's likely it will serve the same purpose in the Zora. Supplied Credit: CarExpert While the Stingray, E-Ray and Z06 are all built in both left- and right-hand drive at GM's Bowling Green factory in Kentucky, allowing it to be sold in Australia, the ZR1 is a left-hand drive-only affair. Although according to Jess Bala, managing director of GM Specialty Vehicles Australia and New Zealand, this doesn't automatically rule out the Zora being available in right-hand drive. MORE: Everything Chevrolet Corvette
The Advertiser
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
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:
