2026 Cadillac Optiq-V First Look: Massive Horsepower Boost Revamps Cadillac’s Compact EV

Cadillac is committed to expanding its V-series lineup across all powertrains, aiming to revive the brand’s prestige by infusing its models with a strong performance edge.

The newest addition to earn the V badge is the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V—a high-performance variant of the entry-level compact electric SUV, featuring an enhanced chassis and a more powerful drivetrain.

The goal is to deliver a driving experience that’s quick, agile, and enjoyable—true to the V-Series mission of bringing race-inspired technology from the track to the street, boosting both performance and precision. The V badge isn’t simply handed out; it’s earned. Currently, the lineup features the CT4-V and CT5-V sedans, along with the flagship Escalade-V. Earlier this year, the Lyriq-V became the first electric vehicle to carry the prestigious V badge.

So, how much horsepower and torque does it have?

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V promises a more exciting drive by being significantly faster than the standard Optiq. Cadillac claims it can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds in Velocity Max mode—blazing past the regular Optiq’s estimated 5.1-second sprint to the same speed.

Thanks to its relatively compact size—and especially its dual motors producing 519 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, according to chief engineer John Cockburn—the Optiq-V packs a serious punch. It’s powered by an 85-kWh battery pack and offers an estimated range of 275 miles. In comparison, the regular Optiq delivers 300 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque from its dual motors, with a longer estimated range of 302 miles. So, that’s a huge boost in power with only a modest reduction in range—which definitely sounds like a win.

The Optiq-V shares its motors with the larger Lyriq-V, but it comes with a smaller battery—using 10 modules instead of 12—to accommodate its shorter wheelbase.

The Optiq-V comes loaded with features like torque vectoring across both axles and a signature V-Mode, exclusive to the V-Series. This mode fine-tunes everything from steering and acceleration to dampers and sound. The Optiq-V even sports its own unique engine sounds, along with a stealth mode to mute them when you want to be courteous to neighbors. V-Mode also includes launch control and a Competitive mode that manages traction and stability, making driving more thrilling—in other words, it’s designed to let you drift with confidence.

The Optiq-V features an adaptive suspension and comes standard with summer tires, with the option to upgrade to performance tires specially developed for this crossover—designed to make it a true canyon carver. Much of its testing took place on winding public roads, including famous stretches like Angeles Crest and the Tail of the Dragon.

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V comes equipped with standard continuous damping control from ZF, along with Brembo brakes as standard. Buyers can also choose between striking blue or red brake calipers as an option.

Going for a Leaner Look

Earning the V badge means more than just performance—it also demands the right attitude in its design. The Optiq-V sits lower and sports a more aggressive appearance. Exterior Design Lead Hoon Kim explained that the body was carefully sculpted to enhance performance, aerodynamics, and stance, featuring a reduced ride height. Lower sections were reshaped to better channel airflow, while much of the front end was redesigned with a signature V diamond mesh grille to improve aerodynamics. Unique touches include a distinct quarter window pattern and a logo etched beside the headlight, giving the Optiq-V its own unmistakable presence.

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V offers two new exterior colors paired with a black roof, giving it an even more aggressive look. Blue accents appear both inside and out, including optional blue seatbelts and seatbacks. Inside, you can choose between a black or white interior, each highlighted with blue details. For those seeking extra flair, the carbon fiber package adds a sporty rear spoiler and a lower valance extension.

The SUV is equipped with standard Super Cruise, GM’s advanced hands-free driving system, alongside a stunning 33-inch LED display. It also features Google Built-in and a premium 19-speaker AKG audio system with Dolby Atmos for an immersive sound experience.

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V also makes history as the first Cadillac to come standard with a NACS charger, enabling access to the Tesla Supercharger network.

How Much Will the Cadillac Optiq-V Cost?

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is set to begin production this fall, with a starting price of $68,795. It will be available for purchase in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Middle East, Israel, and Japan.

The performance variant is expected to account for about 10 percent of total sales, following the trend of other V-Series models. As for a more aggressive Blackwing version in the future? Lead Development Engineer Alex Doss remains tight-lipped, only affirming that the Optiq-V truly earns its V badge.

The Optiq-V is poised to help Cadillac sustain its current momentum, building on four consecutive years of sales growth and a strong start to 2025, which saw a 23 percent increase in U.S. sales during the first quarter. New models like the Optiq-V are expected to further boost this trend. Electric vehicles, in particular, are showing impressive conquest rates—81 percent for the Lyriq and 77 percent for the Optiq—drawing in younger, more affluent buyers, according to Cadillac’s Global Marketing Director, Brad Franz. With Tesla customers starting to consider other options, Cadillac’s timing couldn’t be better. Now, it has a high-performance compact luxury SUV ready to attract those Tesla Model Y Performance drivers looking for something fresh.