2 days ago
2026 Optiq-V electrifies Cadillac's lauded performance line with 519 hp
Cadillac's V-series performance line goes electric with a 73% power increase to the brand's new Optiq compact SUV.
The Optiq-V accelerates to 60 mph in 3.5-seconds and goes on sale this fall.
Priced at $67,300, plus $1,495 destination charge, the Optiq-V will compete with sporty compact SUVs from Mercedes-AMG, BMW M Sport and Lexus F-Sport. Based on what we know now ― price, looks and features ― it could be a formidable competitor.
In addition to a whopping 219 horsepower increase from two new electric motors, the all-wheel-drive Optiq-V gets continuously adaptive ZF shock absorbers and aerodynamic upgrades.
The V-series, now in its fifth generation, accounts for about 10% of Cadillac sales.
519 hp
650 pound-feet of torque
85 kWh battery
275-mile manufacturer-estimated range
33-inch display/touch screen
19-speaker AKG audio
21-inch wheels
The Optiq-V's twin electric motors ― one on each axle for AWD ― are the ones used in Cadillac's midsize Lyriq EV. They're bigger than the base Optiq, which produces 300 hp and 354 pound-feet of torque. The V's 10-modlue battery is the same size at the base Optiq.
The Optiq-V gets unique performance software, including:
V-Mode, activated by a button on the steering wheel, allows the driver to program their individual preferences for sporty driving, including sound, launch control, steering, acceleration, damping and competitive mode.
Competitive Mode adjusts traction management and brake torque vectoring for sporty driving.
Launch Mode ― engages maximum power for straight-line acceleration.
Ambient lighting complements drive modes.
ZF continuously adaptive shocks and Brembo front brake calipers are standard. All-season or summer 21-inch tires are available.
Standard Super Cruise
Available summer tires
Built-in NACS charging point
Fixed glass roof
Customizable V-mode
Launch control
Dolby Atmos compatible audio
Brake torque vectoring of front and rear axles
Black roof
The V-package also includes a black roof. Other visual touches include blue exterior accents, optional red or blue front brake calipers that have the V-series logo, which is repeated inside out. The V gets two exclusive colors: Magnus Metal Frost and Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Blue seat belts and seat backs are available.
A carbon fiber package includes a rear spoiler and front valence.
Cadillac will sell the Optiq-V in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Middle East. It'll be the first General Motors vehicle with a factory-installed NACS charging port for access to Tesla DC chargers. An adapter will be available for CCS ports.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V at a glance
All-wheel drive five-seat luxury performance SUV
Base price: $67,300 (All prices exclude $1,450 destination charge)
On sale Fall 2025
Power: Two electric motors, one on each axle
Output: 519 hp; 650 pound-feet of torque
Transmission: Single-speed automatic
Battery: 85 kWh lithium-ion
Charging time: 240v: 18-31 miles an hour; DC fast charge: 70 miles in 10 minutes.
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Wheelbase: 116 inches inches
Length: 190 inches
Width: 84 inches including mirrors
Height: 65 inches
Passenger volume: 100.1 cubic feet
Cargo capacity: 26 cubic feet behind second row, 57 behind first row
Towing capacity: None
Curb weight: 5,445 pounds
Assembled in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico
Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
This story has been updated to add a gallery.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Cadillac's famous V-series goes electric with a 519-hp SUV
