Cadillac’s push into electric performance is rapidly accelerating, the automaker officially revealing the new V-Series version of its entry EV, the Optiq. Turning out 519 horsepower, the battery crossover will launch in 0-60 in a factory estimated 3.5 seconds – while still offering an EPA-rated 275 miles per charge. Here’s a first look at the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V.
The Optiq-V can launch from 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds.
Cadillac’s push into battery-electric power includes a new line of high-performance models starting with the Lyriq-V revealed earlier this year. Now, it’s set to follow with a performance take on its new entry-luxury crossover, the Optiq.
At 519 horsepower, the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will launch from 0-60 in a mere 3.5 seconds, the automaker announced Monday morning, while it will deliver an EPA-rated 275 miles per charge – at least if you’re a little more gentle with your right foot.
“V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac’s performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience,” said John Roth, vice president, Global Cadillac. “OPTIQ-V will be a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac’s global impact.”
What’s new
Optiq-V will be GM’s first model to offer the Tesla-style NACS charge port.
Like Lyriq – and the other EVs set to flesh out the Caddy line-up — Optiq rides on one of parent GM’s skateboard-like platforms and uses the automaker’s new lithium-ion battery technology and electrical architecture.
Both the standard-issue Optiq and the high-performance Optiq-V are sold exclusively in all-wheel-drive configuration. But the drivetrain gets a significant bump up in power, to a peak 519 hp and 650 pound-feet of torque when triggering “Velocity Max mode” using the V-Mode button on the steering wheel.
Other upgrades include Launch Control to help a driver achieve the fastest possible launches; as well as Competitive Mode which dials back nanny functions like electronic stability control to allow for a more “exhilarating” ride, Cadillac said.
Add Brembo front brake calipers and a variety of unique design details. And Optiq-V becomes General Motors’ first EV to adopt the Tesla-style NACS charger port.
Powertrain
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V has plenty of badging – and other tweaks – to distinguish it from more mainstream packages.
As with mainstream versions of the Cadillac Optiq, the V-Series package uses a pair of electric motors, one on each axle. But it gets a big bump up from the original rating of 300 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
All versions of Optiq share an 85-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, though there is a modest trade-off in range. The V-model gets 275 miles per charge, down from the EPA-rated 302 miles with the standard-issue crossover.
To achieve maximum performance, motorists will need to press the V-Mode button on the steering wheel. It brings power up to the maximum 519 hp and 650 lb-ft.
Meanwhile, drivers will have other ways to enhance performance, including Launch Control. It allows a driver to rev up while keeping their foot on the brake in order to achieve the quickest take-off. Competition Mode, meanwhile, “enables a suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility,” the automaker explained.
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Charging
Optiq-V, like mainstream models, features V2X capabilities. It can be used to keep a home powered up in a blackout – or provide power to a work or campsite.
Like virtually all automakers operating in the U.S., General Motors plans to migrate over the next couple years from the old CCS charge port to the North American Charging Standard, or NACS port, allowing motorists to plug into the extensive Tesla Supercharger network. Optiq-V is the first GM product to confirm it will come with the NACS port.
“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.
Depending upon the power of the public quick charger, Caddy claims Optiq-V will be able to add as much as 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Going from a 10 to 80% state-of-charge is likely to take a bit over 30 minutes, based on other GM EVs. And using a conventional home 240-volt system will likely take around 8 hours. Using the optional 11.5 kW 240-volt charger yields another 31 miles range per hour.
One of the more compelling features of Lyriq (and the rest of the Caddy EV family) is its V2H function, shorthand for the ability to draw power from the vehicle’s battery pack to power a home – or a work or campsite and, at some point, even to help energize an overloaded grid.
Other features
Optiq-V features a 33-inch digital display.
Like the conventional Optiq, the V-model uses “blended” brakes that capture as much kinetic energy as possible to enhance range. The performance package ups its stopping power, however, with Brembo front brake calipers.
As with all Caddy V-Series packages, you’ll be able to tell the Optiq-V apart with a variety of exterior updates, many meant to enhance performance, such as the rear diffuser.
“A new fascia design, the signature V-pattern mesh in the lower grill, a high gloss black front splitter, and body colored lower trim,” are among the updates, Caddy noted. “A carbon fiber package is available, which adds a carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser and rear mid-spoiler.” Optiq rides on unique, low-profile performance tires. There are the requisite V-Series badges, inside and out, including embossed seats.
The interior has a darker colored accent fabric and features woven carbon fiber décor.
As with the base Optiq, the V-Series features an array of digital tech, such as a 33-inch digital display. And it comes standard with GM’s hands-free Super Cruise. There’s also a 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio System with Dolby Atmos.
Optiq-V comes standard with GM’s Super Cruise system, as well as a 19-inch AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos.
Pricing and availability
Caddy hasn’t released details on when the new performance model will reach showrooms but that’s expected to be late this year.
Pricing for the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V currently is set to start at $68,795, including delivery fees.
Potential buyers should note that vehicle prices on virtually everything on the market could be impacted by the Trump tariffs on imported autos and auto parts. Even American-made vehicles, like the Optiq, are dependent upon at least foreign-made components.
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