The 519-Horsepower Cadillac Optiq-V Is The First GM EV To Get Native Tesla NACS

Cadillac is not backing down on its electrical automobile (EV) deployment, and even desires to carry its EVs to the following degree with a full vary of V-Collection efficiency fashions. The Lyriq-V was the primary EV mannequin to inherit the remedy and, now, the Optiq, the model’s most inexpensive EV. It is a automobile I appreciated quite a bit once I drove it a number of weeks again, largely due to its styling, but additionally its usually youthful vibe. I by no means thought I would someday write this a couple of Cadillac, however the Optiq really does really feel younger and recent.

Which is why I am a tad extra intrigued by its V model. Cadillac not too long ago invited the media to a personal digital presentation to point out it to us, and to inform us extra concerning the {hardware} hiding beneath its somewhat enticing physique, in addition to its technical specs and anticipated market integration. Here is the total rundown of what to anticipate.

Shared Mechanical Elements From A Lyriq-V In A Smaller, Lighter Package deal

Let’s start with the thick of the technical specs. The Optiq-V was clearly engineered for efficiency geeks, which I assume you’re in case you’ve clicked on this hyperlink. What it’s essential know is that, in a nutshell, the Optiq-V isn’t precisely a mechanical clone to the Lyriq-V, however does borrow a few of its mechanical parts, like its pair of “V-tuned” electrical motors. Cadillac additionally says that the Optiq-V affords a barely “extra dynamic” driving expertise in a “smaller, lighter bundle”. Cadillac’s phrases, not mine.

“Lighter” is definitely type of an oxymoron on this planet of EVs, particularly contemplating {that a} Lyriq-V already weighs in at a whopping 5,980 kilos. By comparability, its little brother, the Optiq-V, sits at 5,445 kilos. It is also powered by a smaller capability battery, 85 versus 102 kWh within the Lyriq-V. However the whole mixed output is not that far behind. The Optiq-V pumps out 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, or 96 horsepower lower than the Lyriq, however with the identical torque determine.

2025 Cadillac Optiq-V Technical Specs

Cadillac says the Optiq-V will launch from 0 to 60 MPH in 3.5 seconds in Velocity Max mode. However straight-line velocity is now the norm for EVs. What I am interested by is how the automobile will really feel and deal with on the market in the true world. Cadillac did point out a Aggressive mode, which apparently fiddles with the automobile’s traction administration system and electrical motors to recreate the feeling of mechanical torque vectoring on the rear axle, in addition to yaw management. Cool.

No person talked about gimmicks like a drift mode, nevertheless. Or if the Optiq-V can slide like a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, however the Optiq-V does get a set of upgraded Brembo entrance brake calipers for improved breaking efficiency. Cadillac additionally labored with ZF to develop a control-valve adaptive damper setup known as Steady Damping Management (CDC).

Lastly, A Native NACS Port

Though GM has been forward of the curve when it comes to its EV deployment, it nonetheless hasn’t built-in the North American Charging Commonplace (NACS) into its newest fashions, such because the common Optiq and the Vistiq. The Optiq-V will lastly get it, marking the first-ever GM EV to undertake the know-how. Cadillac did not say if the remainder of the Optiq lineup will convert to NACS as effectively, however I would not be stunned if the 2026 fashions will get the replace. Cadillac estimates a 275 vary determine for the V, which stays first rate contemplating the kind of efficiency it’s going to ship.

What I personally like is the way in which this factor seems. The Optiq is already a neat-looking crossover, however in V mode, it seems correctly hunkered down and imply. Tires are thick, 275-wide squared on all fours, wrapped round model-specific 21-inch wheels that go well with the Optiq-V like a glove.

The entrance and rear bumpers are a tad extra aggressive, with gloss black accents that give the V a extra sinister look. Cadillac will even provide a carbon fiber bundle, which is a bit overkill on a automobile weighing north of 5,000 kilos, however cool however. The bundle will improve the Optiq-V’s look by way of a carbon entrance splitter, rear diffuser, and mid-spoiler. I additionally dig how the rear C pillar window design – which stays a sensible design ingredient – mimics the V-Collection emblem.

And inside, the colourful colours and youthful look proceed, however with extra emphasis on a carbon fiber end, a thicker, extra purposeful steering wheel, and what seems to be extra supportive sports activities bucket seats. Additionally they look correctly epic, particularly from the rear. Cadillac says manufacturing for the 2026 Optiq-V will start this fall, and that it will kick off with an estimated $68,795 beginning MSRP. We’re wanting ahead to getting our palms on a press unit quickly to share with you our first impressions.