- Cadillac will launch a high-performance version of its Optiq compact SUV for 2026
- Cadillac’s V-Series cars are faster, pricier versions
- The Optiq is a new, all-electric compact SUV
The Cadillac Optiq is so new you may not have seen one on the road yet. But the company is already launching a superpowered version.
The Optiq is an all-electric compact SUV with a starting price of $54,390, including the mandatory destination fee. Like most electric vehicles (EVs), it already boasts quicker acceleration than a typical compact luxury SUV. But Cadillac announced today that it will offer a high-performance V-Series version for 2026 with a zero to 60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds.
The Optiq-V will start at $68,795, including destination fee.
Cadillac Is Pumping Out V Models Faster Now
- It’s easy for automakers to boost an EV’s power
Cadillac has long built high-performance versions of some of its cars under the V-Series moniker. A V model typically gets a more powerful engine, upgraded brakes, and enhanced suspension more suited to spirited driving. Vehicles like the CT5-V Blackwing and Escalade-V cost significantly more than the Caddies they’re based on. But they’re the American answer to BMW’s M models and Mercedes’ AMG shop, and they’re worth it.
They’re expensive because car builders must swap in a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and steering components to give them their impressive track credentials.
Automakers have an easier time upgrading the power of an EV. Many electric motors are capable of more performance than they give day-to-day. Automakers can unlock quicker acceleration by simply reprogramming the motors and batteries they already use.
So Cadillac has begun rolling out V-Series versions of its EVs fairly quickly. The midsize Lyriq SUV got a Lyriq-V model early in its production run. The Optiq-V has appeared even earlier in the Optiq’s life.
Not Just a Power Boost
- 650 lb-ft of torque, upgraded brakes, enhanced suspension
The Optiq-V gets a power bump. Ordinary Optiq models make 300 horsepower and boast a range of a little over 300 miles. The Optiq-V will have up to 519 hp, Cadillac says, without much range penalty. It’s estimated to travel up to 275 miles between charges.
Other changes include Brembo performance brakes (though only in front). Chief Engineer John Cockburn also promises “tighter steering” and “enhanced suspension.”
It will be the first General Motors vehicle to come with a Tesla-style North American Charging System port, letting owners charge at Tesla Superchargers without an adapter.
Styling changes include a unique front fascia with “signature V-patter mesh,” a high-gloss black front splitter, and blue Cadillac Mondrian pattern styling on the rear quarter windows.
Inside, buyers can choose from “two interior palette options: Noir with Santorini Blue accents, and Noir and Sky Cool Gray with Santorini Blue accents.” Woven carbon fiber accents on the center console aren’t fake – they’re the real thing to save weight.
Production begins this fall.