2026 Cadillac OPTIQ

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq is the brand's relatively new all-electric small SUV. It's the least expensive EV that Cadillac sells, yet it provides compelling value thanks to family-friendly cabin space, a high-quality interior, ample range, and lots of standard luxury features. For example, every Optiq comes with Super Cruise hands-free highway driving assist and a killer 19-speaker AKG sound system. This year's Optiq might be even more compelling because of the changes Cadillac has implemented.

The Optiq was only introduced last year, but Cadillac has already completely changed the drivetrain options for 2026, resulting in new performance, range and pricing. The previously standard dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup that produced 300 horsepower and traveled an EPA-estimated 302 miles is no more. In its place is a standard single-motor Optiq that has rear-wheel drive, 315 hp, and a Cadillac-estimated range of 317 miles. Its base price goes down too. The new, now-optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive system gets a big bump up to 440 hp and 303 miles of range. If that's not enough grunt, there's the new Optiq-V performance model that adds a 519-hp dual-motor drivetrain plus a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes and adjustable front seat bolsters. Finally, every Optiq now comes with a Tesla-style NACS charging port, which makes it easier to charge the Optiq at Tesla's nationwide network of Supercharger stations.

You could start by checking out the Audi Q4 E-tron, Genesis GV60 and Volvo EX40, but you may find that the Optiq's strong value and classy design will still win you over. Another option would be to look at the range-topping versions of non-luxury competitors such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. If you like the Optiq but want something bigger, Cadillac also offers the all-electric Lyriq and Vistiq. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to help you decide if the Optiq is the right EV for you.

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq is available in Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury and Premium Sport trim levels. All can be had with a standard single electric motor and rear-wheel drive (315 horsepower, 332 lb-ft of torque) or an optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup (440 hp, 498 lb-ft). There is also the new Optiq-V trim level that gets more powerful dual electric motors good for 519 hp and 650 lb-ft.