The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V has been unveiled, the next vehicle in the brand’s growing lineup of V-Series electric performance cars.
Being a V-Series model, some of the most exciting news for the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V pertains to its upgraded performance. Where the standard Optiq makes do with a respectable 300 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, the Optiq-V ups the ante to 519 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. This will allow the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V to deliver an impressively quick 3.5 second 0-60 time. That’s just 0.1 seconds slower than the brand’s celebrated CT5-V Blackwing sedan.
Other performance enhancements include a revised suspension system, tighter steering, Brembo brakes for “consistent, fade-resistant performance during spirited driving,” and unique 21-inch wheels, which buyers can spec to be wrapped in grippier summer tires if they so choose. Cadillac specifically mentioned that it designed the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V as a canyon carver and will likely be the most playful of all Cadillac V-Series EVs due to its smaller size and weight.
A new V-Mode will allow drivers to save performance-specific settings and access a unique sound experience at the touch of a button, while a new Competitive Mode “enables a suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility.”
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will share the same 85 kWh battery as the standard Optiq, though with a reduced range estimate of 275 miles due to the additional power needed for its enhanced performance numbers.
The question of when GM will begin to incorporate Tesla’s NACS charging port as standard has finally been answered as the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will be the first GM product with a native NACS port standard from the factory. Cadillac says buyers will be able to add 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes using a DC fast charger.
From a design standpoint, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V features a unique front fascia that showcases a more aggressive design than the standard Optiq, including mesh-look texturing in the lower bumper. Like the Lyriq-V, the Optiq-V also features body-colored lower-body molding and a sportier rear diffuser-like bumper, along with a lip spoiler that incorporates a carbon fiber design. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V also features model-unique etching on the rear side glass with royal blue accents and royal blue-colored brake calipers.
Inside, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V receives unique seats with a V-Series logo-inspired quilting pattern, carbon fiber trim, and a V-Series logo in place of the Cadillac crest in the center of the steering wheel. Royal blue accents abound, echoing those found on the exterior, including seat backs, seat belts, seat piping, contrast stitching, dashboard trim, and more.
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will come standard with GM’s Super Cruise advanced driver assistance system and a 19-speaker AKG premium audio system with Dolby Atmos support.
Pricing for the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will begin at $68,795 when it goes on sale, which Cadillac estimates will be in the fall.