Latest news with #VSeries
Auto Blog
27 minutes ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Cadillac Optiq-V Vs. Lyriq-V: Quickest-Ever Cadillac SUVs Compared
On paper, the new Optiq-V runs its bigger, faste sibling the Lyriq-V very close indeed. Cadillac Doubles Its EV Muscle With the reveal of the Optiq-V, Cadillac now has two fully electric members of its growing V-Series high-performance lineup, joining the larger Lyriq-V. The gas-powered V-Series range includes the fire-breathing CT5-V Blackwing with its raucous V8, but for those who prefer their performance to be delivered in the drama-free fashion of an EV, it's all about the Lyriq-V and new Optiq-V. Here are five key differences between these high-performance EVs from Cadillac. 1. Smaller, Lighter Optiq-V Likely To Be More Agile 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V The most obvious difference between these two electric SUVs comes down to size. The Optiq-V measures 190 inches in body length, making it seven inches shorter than the Lyriq-V. Width is just 2.4 inches more for the Lyriq-V, while the Optiq-V is 0.7 inches taller. Perhaps more significant than size is weight. Both are heavy beasts, as is expected for electric SUVs. The Lyriq-V comes in at a monster 5,980 pounds, while the Optiq-V weighs 5,445 lbs – that 535-pound difference could make the Optiq-V feel more responsive through the corners. But, while both have electronic power steering, the Lyriq-V has a continuously variable system that adjusts the amount of assistance needed based on factors like vehicle speed. It will be interesting to gauge the effect of these differences in a back-to-back test drive. 2. Lyriq-V Has Small Performance Edge Lyriq-V owners wouldn't have been pleased if the smaller, cheaper Optiq-V turned out to be quicker, so Cadillac appears to have perfectly tuned the smaller SUV to be slightly slower. Both have dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, but whereas the Optiq-V makes 519 horsepower and 650-lb-ft of torque, the Lyriq-V produces 615 hp – torque remains the same for the larger vehicle. The Optiq-V has a claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, whereas the Lyriq-V cuts that down to 3.3 seconds, so retains its title as the quickest Cadillac ever. Both these times require the EVs to be in Velocity Max mode, a selectable setting that allows for peak performance. 3. Optiq-V Has Smaller Battery But Nearly Matches Lyriq-V's Range Dashboard of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V A battery capacity of 85 kWh applies to the Optiq-V, which is sufficient for an estimated 275 miles of range. The Lyriq-V has a larger 102-kWh battery and an estimated range of 285 miles – only 10 miles more than its smaller sibling. Based on these figures, it's likely that the Optiq-V will be quite a bit more efficient, most of which stems from its 535-pound weight advantage. 4. Native NACS Inlet Unique To Optiq-V The built-in NACS port on the 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V — Source: Cadillac Not only is the Optiq-V more efficient, but it's the first vehicle from General Motors that will have a native NACS (North American Charging Standard) inlet. This is a welcome move that will make fast-charging options more convenient across the country, as the Optiq-V can make use of the Tesla Supercharger network. The Lyriq-V still requires a NACS DC GM-approved adaptor. 'Integrating the native NACS port into our vehicle architecture is an important step forward, reflecting our leadership in engineering and our commitment to providing our customers with more charging options,' said John Cockburn, Optiq-V chief engineer. 5. Price Difference Of Over $10,000 Source: Cadillac So, how much do you save if you go for the smaller and (slightly) slower of Cadillac's high-performance electric SUVs? Well, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will cost you $68,795, including the destination charge. For the 2026 Lyriq-V, the equivalent price (including the destination charge) is $80,090. You do get a few better features with the Lyriq-V, such as the standard 23-speaker AKG sound system, whereas the Optiq-V has a 19-speaker version. However, the Optiq-V is also well-specified and matches the Lyriq-V's immersive 33-inch dashboard display. As things stand now – unless we needed the extra space and assuming the driving experience is similar – we'd be tempted to go for the Optiq-V and add one or two desirable options, while still coming in way below the Lyriq-V's MSRP. You'd still be getting an extremely quick and very luxurious EV. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
Car and Driver
4 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
View Photos of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V
Read the Full Story Cadillac is giving another EV its V-series performance treatment, and this time it's the 2026 Optiq-V. The hotter version of the compact SUV has more power, a retuned suspension, and a sportier look.
Auto Blog
4 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Cadillac Reveals First Ever Optiq-V: Everything You Need to Know
The letter V is a sacred letter for Cadillac If one thing unites certain automakers, it is that some claim ownership of a single English alphabet letter to name their high-performance division and their line of cars. BMW has the M division, Lexus has F, Volkswagen claims the R badge, and Hyundai has N. Cadillac claims the letter V for the V-Series, and since its inception in 2003, its portfolio consisted of special Caddys that weren't just boulevard cruisers; they made some properly fast cars. For instance, when the second-generation CTS-V came out in late 2008, it smoked its more expensive German rivals, the BMW M3 and M5, on the Nurburgring. 0:02 / 0:09 Audi A5 replaces A4: So, what's changed? Watch More Today, its legacy lives on in special cars like the CT5-V Blackwing sedan, which has become a modern, supercharged symbol of American muscle, producing 668 horsepower from its C7 Corvette Z06-derived V8. However, the realities of real life, restrictive emissions regulations, and the advent of electrification have automakers tweaking their high-performance offerings. Mercedes-AMG is stuffing plug-in hybrid powertrains in its C63 and E53 sedans, and BMW's latest M5 is being lauded as a heavy animal due to its electrified power. The 'V' in EV New for 2026 is Cadillac OPTIQ-V, and as it suggests, it signifies that Cadillac is solidly in its EV era. Performance SUVs are a dime a dozen these days, but Cadillac's latest electric beast makes a statement based on sheer numbers alone. Underneath the OPTIQ-V's skin is a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup good for an estimated 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque in 'Velocity Max' mode, which unleashes every last volt trapped in its wires. Cadillac says that with its launch control system on, the OPTIQ-V rallies to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. On numbers alone, that makes the OPTIQ-V quicker than the previous Tesla Model Y Performance and even the Maserati Grecale Folgore. To tame all that power, the OPTIQ-V comes with a picnic basket full of handling goodies, including standard Brembo front brakes, tighter steering, tuned suspension featuring ZF's continuous damper control, and optional Continental SportContact 6 summer tires. Additionally, the car's software also features a custom V-Mode (activated by an actual 'V button' on the steering wheel), which lets drivers adjust performance features such as the steering feel, sound, acceleration, and a suite of traction management features to their liking. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Source: Cadillac Alex Doss, the lead Cadillac development engineer on the OPTIQ-V, said that from a handling perspective, the EV was a 'spiritual successor' to the CT4-V sedan, and that it was developed as a fun, driver-focused 'canyon carver' noting that they spent a lot of time testing it on roads like the Devil's Triangle, Back of the Dragon, Tail of the Dragon, Hughes Road and Angeles Crest. General Motors' trusted Ultium platform is the electrical backbone of the OPTIQ-V, but unlike other vehicles powered by it, the OPTIQ-V comes with a built-in NACS (North American Charging Standard) port right from the factory. This enables direct adapter-free access to thousands of Tesla Supercharger stations, and on a full charge, the OPTIQ-V and its 85kW battery are rated at an estimated 275 miles. The OPTIQ-V sports some proper performance kit The 2026 OPTIQ-V's skin features enhanced exterior components that are as boy-racer as they are functional. The most noticeable features include the V's redesigned front fascia, a signature V-pattern diamond-mesh grille for better airflow, a gloss black front splitter, and V-series badging throughout the vehicle. The OPTIQ-V also features exclusive 21-inch wheels finished in satin graphite or dark sport, a standard black painted roof, and a panoramic fixed glass roof. A carbon fiber package is also available, which adds a carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler on the tailgate. Royal blue detailing is a key feature throughout the exterior of the OPTIQ-V, shining on the royal blue brake calipers and royal blue-accented rear quarter windows. Exclusive to the OPTIQ-V are two limited-edition exterior paint jobs, including a matte-finished metallic grey color with warm highlights called Magnus Metal Frost and a special blue called Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Inside, the interior of the OPTIQ-V blends Cadillac's motorsports-inspired V-Series identity with a heavy technological-luxury aesthetic, featuring laser-etched badging, recycled sport fabrics, and real woven carbon fiber trim. Like the exterior, the color blue is a major design theme, as the OPTIQ-V's two distinct interior palettes, a darker Noir or Sky Cool Gray, both feature Santorini Blue accents. Cadillac says this shade of blue 'evokes the energy, action, and excitement associated with innovation and high performance.' Seatbacks and seatbelts finished in Santorini Blue are also offered as an option. Cadillac didn't forget to pack the tech in the OPTIQ-V. It features a massive 33-inch LED display, a 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio system with Dolby Atmos, and Google Built-in infotainment, which includes apps such as Google Maps and Google Assistant. Additionally, the car features a three-year OnStar subscription with Super Cruise hands-free highway driving and a suite of safety and driver aids powered by advanced radar, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, such as adaptive cruise control, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Enhanced automatic parking, and Forward Collision alert. Source: Cadillac Final thoughts The OPTIQ-V really shows that Cadillac is very serious about its portfolio of EVs being the future of luxury. Alongside the Lyriq-V, it acts as the next chapter in a book dominated by the stories and lore of gas-powered icons. Cadillac says that the MSRP of the OPTIQ-V starts at around $68,795 (including destination), and that it will be sold in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and select international markets when production begins in Fall 2025. At that price, the OPTIQ-V has some high-performance competitors, including the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, which at $66,200, offers up to 641 hp, a 0-60 time of 3.25 seconds, and unique features like a simulated gearbox. Nonetheless, Cadillac sees this as a car built for a new type of Cadillac customer, but as we see it, Cadillac has been taking away customers from Tesla. Hopefully, this vehicle can help in their conquest efforts. About the Author James Ochoa View Profile
Car and Driver
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Looks to Be a Pocket Rocket, Packs a 519-HP Punch
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V joins the lineup as the new crown jewel of the Optiq roster. It uses the same dual-motor setup as the larger Lyriq-V, though output is slightly lower at 519 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. When production and sales start this fall, the Optiq-V will carry a $68,795 starting price. Cadillac's V-badge-wearing lineup of EVs is about to get bigger with the introduction of the 2026 Optiq-V. The brand's compact electric SUV is undertaking the V-series treatment, giving it sportier looks and considerably higher performance. By historical standards, the non-V Optiq is a quick little machine that we estimate can spring from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. But, as EV proliferation continues and our inner ears develop new standards for speed, the dual-motor's 300-horsepower setup just doesn't elicit excitement. On paper, the Optiq-V fixes that. View Gallery Cadillac The Optiq-V shares its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup with the larger Lyriq-V, though the Optiq's smaller battery means it spits out 519 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque in comparison with the Lyriq's 615 horsepower. According to Cadillac, the updated powertrain is capable of a 3.5-second sprint to 60 mph. Range is down from the non-V—an unfortunate side effect of adding 219 ponies to the equation. According to Cadillac, the 85.0-kWh battery pack is good for an estimated 275 miles of range, or 25 fewer than the standard model. Though certainly quick in a straight line, Cadillac says it doesn't just have a one-trick pony on its hands. During a video call with media, Alex Doss, the Optiq-V's lead engineer, told reporters that GM developed the performance model to be a canyon carver. That means six-piston Brembo front brakes, quicker steering, a retuned suspension, and Continental Sport Contact 6 summer tires. View Gallery Cadillac Visually, the V distinguishes itself from the regular Optiq with a unique front fascia and a special V pattern in the faux grille. A royal blue color scheme permeates inside and out of the Optiq-V's design, from the brake calipers to the rear quarter windows and throughout the interior from the dashboard to the seatbacks and the seatbelts. Aside from the performance changes, the Optiq-V will also be the first GM product equipped with a native NACS charging port, so it has access to Tesla's vast Supercharger network. Cadillac is targeting an on-sale date and production timeline for sometime this fall. When it goes on sale, the new performance Optiq will start at $68,795. Jack Fitzgerald Associate News Editor Jack Fitzgerald's love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn't afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
Motor Trend
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V First Look: Huge Injection of Horsepower Transforms Caddy's Baby EV
Cadillac is serious about adding V badging to its lineup, regardless of powertrain, as part of its effort to restore the luster of the brand by giving its models a performance sheen. The latest model to earn the badge? The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V, a performance version of the entry-level compact electric SUV with an upgraded chassis and more powerful drivetrain. The result should be quick, nimble and fun, in keeping with the mission of the V-Series to transfer race technology from the track to the road, enhancing performance and precision behind the wheel. It is a badge that is not just applied; it must be earned. The current lineup includes the CT4-V and CT5-V sedans, and the flagship Escalade-V. The first electric vehicle to be badged is the Lyriq-V which was introduced earlier this year. Wait, How Much Horsepower and Torque? The Optiq-V should be more fun to drive simply by being quicker than the non-V Optiq, its claimed 3.5-second zero-to-60-mph acceleration time in Velocity Max mode would smoke a regular Optiq's estimated 5.1-second jog to the same speed. Credit the Optiq's relatively compact size, but more so its dual motors generating 519 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, says chief engineer John Cockburn. It has an 85-kWh battery back and an estimated range of 275 miles. That compares with 302 miles with the regular Optiq, which delivers a mere 300 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque from its dual motors. So yeah, huge increase in power with a relatively small drop in range = good. The Optiq-V has the same motors as the larger Lyriq-V, but the battery is smaller with 10 modules instead of 12 to fit into a vehicle with a shorter wheelbase. Goodies include torque vectoring across both axles and V-mode, which is unique to the V-Series and sets everything from steering and acceleration to dampers and sound. The Optiq-V has its own unique sounds and a stealth mode to turn if off as a courtesy to neighbors. V-Mode also enables launch control and provides a Competitive mode to manage traction, stability, and make it more exhilarating to drive—in other words, this is how you drift it. The Optiq-V has an adaptive suspension and standard summer tires or optional performance tires developed specifically for the crossover to be a canyon carver. The SUV has done a lot of its testing on curvy public roads, from Angela's Crest to Tail of the Dragon. Standard continuous damping control is from ZF, there are standard Brembo brakes with available blue or red calipers. Earning the V badge requires more than just the right look—but that is part of it. The Optiq-V sits lower and looks meaner. Exterior Design Lead Hoon Kim said the exterior was sculpted for performance, aerodynamics, and stance with a lower ride height. The lower areas were resurfaced to direct air. Most of the front end was redesigned with a signature V diamond mesh pattern and to improve air flow. There is a unique quarter window pattern and a logo etched next to the headlight. The Optiq-V comes in two new exterior colors and black roof for a more menacing lid. There are blue accents inside and out including optional blue seatbelts and seatbacks. The interior choices: black with blue or white with blue. Opt for the carbon fiber package for the rear spoiler and lower valance extension. The SUV comes with standard Super Cruise, GM's excellent hands-free driving system, a 33-inch LED display, Google Built-in and a 19-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos. And the 2026 Optiq-V becomes the first Cadillac to have a NACS charger standard that allows it to use the Tesla supercharger network. How Much Will the Cadillac Optiq-V Cost? The Optiq-V goes into production this fall with a starting price of $68,795. It will be sold in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Middle East, Israel, and Japan. Take rate for the performance variant should be about 10 percent, if it follows the pattern of other V-Series sales. Could we see an even harder-core Blackwing version down the road? No comment, says Lead Development Engineer Alex Doss, other than to say the Optiq-V earns its badge. The Optiq-V is expected to help Cadillac maintain its current momentum with four years of sales growth and a good start to 2025 with a 23 percent increase in U.S. sales in the first quarter. New entries will only help and EVs are proving to have high conquest rates: 81 percent for the Lyriq and 77 percent for the Optiq, which are attracting younger and more affluent customers, says Global Marketing Director for Cadillac Brad Franz. With Tesla customers peeling off of that brand, Cadillac's timing is spot-on—and now it has a performance compact luxury SUV to offer Tesla Model Y Performance customers looking for a change...
