The latest compact electric vehicle from Cadillac offers an impressive 300-mile range, along with features such as Super Cruise and all-wheel drive, plus you can benefit from a $7,500 EV tax incentive. So, what’s there not to enjoy?

Recently, during a press event, I got to experience driving two distinct electric Cadillac models consecutively for about a couple of weeks. The initial one was the
Escalade IQ
, and according to many metrics, this was the more intriguing of the pair. This marks the first time Cadillac’s legendary luxury SUV has been offered as an electric vehicle, and it boasts the spaciousness typical of a New York City apartment. Inside, it exudes opulence and elegance. The doors operate with electronic grace, opening and closing smoothly. With a remarkable range of 460 miles per charge, it also features a distinctive side-to-side movement capability for demonstration purposes.

However, I was much more intrigued by the second electric car I tested: the
2025 Cadillac Optiq
. Let’s be honest: While you and I might dream about owning an Escalade, few of us can realistically afford one without selling a business or winning the lottery with a past investment like Bitcoin. However, the Optiq offers something different—a luxury electric vehicle that’s genuinely within reach. Plus, it happens to be quite impressive.

Cadillac’s beginner-friendly electric vehicle offers impressive styling, extensive range, advanced technology, and a audio system that truly impressed me.
everything for a good deal
.

You could even say
GM has accomplished it once more.
. The
Chevrolet Equinox EV
Last year, it disrupted the conventional electric vehicle market by introducing a genuinely appealing affordable model—possibly unprecedented in recent times—and perhaps forever. Its closely related sibling, the Optiq, appears set to achieve similar success within the compact electric luxury SUV segment by undercutting competitors on price while providing superior performance features.

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Full Disclosure:

Cadillac provided for my accommodation and meals as I test-drove the Optiq in San Francisco this month.

2025 Cadillac Optiq: What Exactly Is It?

Cadillac is currently making significant strides in electrification, with the recent arrival of the Optiq at dealerships. This model represents Cadillac’s most affordable and compact electric vehicle offering. It complements the well-received Lyriq, available since earlier, along with the newly launched Escalade IQ. Additionally, later this year will see the release of two more models: the Vistiq—a full-sized SUV—and the luxurious Celestiq sedan, priced above $300,000 and exclusively customizable upon order.

The Optiq has a starting price of $54,390, inclusive of destination charges, making it approximately $5,000 cheaper than the Lyriq. As it is manufactured in North America using batteries that meet the criteria set forth by the Inflation Reduction Act’s sourcing regulations, the Optiq is among the few electric vehicles eligible for a federal tax incentive of up to $7,500.

So long as this policy stays in place, it reduces the crossover’s effective base cost to barely below $47,000, aligning closely with the typical new car price in 2025 according to Kelley Blue Book.

With this vehicle, you receive 300 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system. The Optiq comes equipped with an 85-kilowatt-hour battery—which shares components across various models like Chevrolets, GMCs, and Cadillacs—and provides approximately 302 miles of estimated driving range according to the EPA. It’s challenging to locate another luxury SUV within its class that delivers such extensive range at this price point.

The Sport 2-trim Optiq I tested came with a price tag of $60,595 after adding all expenses such as delivery fees and features like custom paint and rims. However, opting for a simpler configuration wouldn’t result in significant sacrifices.

Cadillac excelled with the design of the Optiq as well. While the Lyriq and Escalade IQ boast a lengthy, majestic appearance, the compact Optiq appears shorter, sharper, and more vibrant, aligning perfectly with its target demographic. The vehicle features a meticulously crafted illuminated grille area and showcases a distinctive geometric pattern on its rear side windows. Additionally, it offers appealing color options such as orange and metallic baby blue.

How Does It Feel to Drive the Cadillac Optiq?

The Optiq travels relatively comfortably over various terrains. Inside, it remains quite silent due to the double-layered windows throughout. Similar to numerous electric vehicles, it boasts nearly instantaneous torque, which allows for smooth overtaking maneuvers on highways. Although it features a sport mode that enhances both the steering response and accelerator sensitivity, I would recommend avoiding it. The Optiq isn’t notably nimble or exciting to handle; however, this is not problematic as long as you find it agreeable during drives, which is typically what counts for most drivers.

The crossover provides three different intensity settings for single-pedal operation. At the highest level, lifting your foot from the accelerator triggers robust regenerative braking, which maximizes energy recovery for the battery. Should you prefer a smoother experience similar to traditional gasoline vehicles, this feature can be entirely disabled. Personally, I found the moderate setting most appealing because it felt just right—consistent and straightforward to adapt to. Regardless of the selected mode, I appreciated being able to monitor precisely how many kilowatts were generated through regenerative braking at any point in time.

Similar to other General Motors electric vehicles, the Optiq features a control pad on the left side of the steering wheel that acts much like an additional brake pedal, though it triggers regenerative braking instead. I’m still unsure about when exactly this feature comes into play, and using it doesn’t feel instinctive to me yet. However, since I don’t operate one of these vehicles daily, perhaps I have overlooked some benefits. (General Motors EV owners, share your thoughts in the section beneath.)

The ultimate highlight of operating the Optiq—as well as any General Motors vehicles equipped with this feature—is undoubtedly Super Cruise. The good news is that GM’s hands-free, highway-driving aid system is included as standard gear. To activate Super Cruise, simply press a button on the steering wheel; then, the Optiq handles fundamental tasks such as staying within lanes and adjusting speed according to traffic conditions. While you still need to monitor the situation, these features make extended, tedious journeys far easier to manage.

Super Cruise comes at no cost for the initial three years. Following this period, a fee will apply.
Pay $25 each month for the subscription.
.

Many additional safety technologies come as standard features as well. However, I noticed that its blind-spot monitoring was somewhat overly sensitive. Particularly when navigating through city streets, it would alert me unnecessarily even when there were no apparent dangers.

2025 Cadillac Optiq Interior

The interior of the Optiq exudes style with an array of unconventional materials that lend a contemporary feel. The doors, dashboard, and central control panel feature a woven, recycled textile, while plush felt adorns several storage compartments. In my review model, striking blue highlights were present (although one could opt for subtler tones), and overall, it seemed robustly constructed. While not quite matching up to European premium marques, it still offers a pleasant experience.

The Optiq maintains some of the most elegant features from the Escalade, such as real metal door handles, stainless steel speaker grilles, and a large panoramic glass roof equipped with a retractable sun shade.

The rear seat provides a smooth, uninterrupted floor along with ample legroom and sufficient headspace as well. It might not be ideal for extremely tall passengers who plan to travel long distances—unless you’re okay with straining your friendship. However, I believe it should comfortably fit many family requirements.

To access the cargo space, you simply press on the Cadillac emblem at the rear, adding a touch of elegance. The trunk capacity behind the backseats appears quite generous, offering about 26 cubic feet. This measurement isn’t far off from what you’d find in a Lyriq model. However, disappointingly, this vehicle lacks both a front trunk (frunk) and additional hidden storage compartments beneath the floorboard. In terms of efficient electric-vehicle design, major car manufacturers like GM, along with numerous traditional automotive companies, continue to trail behind newer firms such as Tesla and some Chinese competitors.

2025 Cadillac Optiq Technology and Sound System

I really love the user interface in the Optiq, similar to what you find in other Cadillac models such as the Lyriq and Escalade IQ. The standout feature in this vehicle is an impressive 33-inch, 9K curved screen that combines both the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system into one seamless, vivid display. This creates a very modern and tech-savvy appearance for the cabin.

The instrument panel provides multiple designs for you to select from, and I was pleased with the availability of a simple, low-distracting choice. By paying an additional fee, you can obtain a heads-up display, which I considered both striking and straightforward to read.

The main touch screen is responsive and has a very modern feel, similar to high-tech gadgets. While it doesn’t match the advanced and visually impressive interfaces found in vehicles made by technology leaders such as Tesla or Rivian, it still stands out compared to many other car software systems. This interface operates using the Android platform and integrates built-in Google services, allowing you to access numerous applications via the Google Play Store.

However, the biggest advantage of partnering with Google is having access to Google Maps as your default navigation system instead of an obscure and cumbersome one. With Google Maps, you can see how much battery charge will remain upon arrival at your destination, easily find and sort through charging stations, and seamlessly integrate turn-by-turn directions within the instrument panel.

GM’s electric vehicles lack support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but if you utilize Google apps or native options such as Spotify, I believe you will manage just fine.

Here’s something you can’t assume will be around anymore: The climate controls are conveniently arranged in a line within easy reach. There are none of those touch-based or haptic controls. Thank goodness.

I should mention Dolby Atmos too. To be honest, I had no idea what it was before this journey. I thought it was just fancy terminology for “high-quality sound.” However, I was mistaken. Dolby Atmos is remarkably awesome, and it’s an additional standout feature included with the Optiq, thanks to its top-notch 19-speaker AKG audio setup.

Atmos essentially delivers a three-dimensional auditory experience with enhanced immersion. Unlike traditional stereo setups where sound originates only from the sides, Atmos-enabled systems allow various elements within an audio track to be perceived as originating from multiple points—above, beneath, at your side, ahead, and even behind you. This means when listening to music encoded in this format via compatible equipment, you might discern lead vocal lines emanating directly before you, high-pitched crashes located towards the rear-left area, and ambient noises swirling around your space for a richer sensory encounter.

This might sound as surreal as describing a dream or an acid trip, but let me assure you that the audio experience is truly remarkable. It’s not just limited to these few vehicles from various manufacturers; eventually, every Cadillac model will feature this technology, beginning with the Optiq. Testing out the Atmos tracks during my drive was incredibly enjoyable, and I can easily picture future owners finding great pleasure in using it as well.

Unlike in-car AI or similar technologies, this is a tech feature that really does make a lot of sense.

How Well Does It Perform as an Electric Vehicle?

The Optiq gains significant electric vehicle credibility thanks to its impressive range exceeding 300 miles. Additionally, this is accomplished using dual motors for all-wheel drive, even though such a configuration typically uses more power and reduces overall range when compared to a system with just one motor.

The DC fast-charging capabilities are not as impressive, with the Optiq reaching a maximum of 150 kW, which is merely adequate. According to Cadillac, the Optiq can provide an additional 79 miles of range within 10 minutes when ideal charging conditions prevail. In this aspect, it falls behind faster-charging vehicles such as the Genesis GV60 and Tesla Model Y, both of which boast higher power outputs exceeding 200 kW and consequently offer greater increases in mileage more swiftly.

And you may find yourself using that 150-kW speed less frequently than expected, due to various factors.
detailed extensively in this InsideEVs article about the Equinox EV
In brief, this particular pack functions at such a low voltage that you likely won’t achieve maximum charging speed, even when connected to a station capable of delivering up to 150 kW. To reach those speeds, you will require access to a high-amperage charger instead.

As soon as we receive an Optiq for testing, we will be able to provide more details about its performance with different outlets. It’s worth noting that the Optiq can recharge at numerous Tesla Supercharger stations through the use of an adaptor.

Cadillac claims that the Optiq can gain 33 miles per charge with an 11.5-kW Level 2 charger, similar to those found in garages or at public locations. Upgrading to a 19.2-kW Level 2 charging option boosts this range to approximately 55 miles, according to the manufacturer’s estimates.

Early Verdict

The Optiq is a stylish, high-end crossover equipped with standard all-wheel drive, standard Super Cruise, and over 300 miles of range, priced at less than $47,000 after accounting for the tax incentive. Additionally, it boasts commendable onboard technology and a remarkable Dolby Atmos audio system. While it may not be budget-friendly—consider opting for an Equinox EV if affordability is your priority—it presents a comprehensive offering that’s hard to match.

Simply observe the competition: Many other compact SUVs from premium brands come with higher prices, lower ranges, or sometimes even both.

The
Genesis GV60
Is excellent, however, it begins at $53,700 and isn’t eligible for the tax credit. Upgrade to the AWD variant, and you’ll face higher costs for a vehicle with only 264 miles of range. The Twin-Motor model adds to this.
Volvo EX40
The vehicle with a $55,545 price tag offers an estimated range of 260 miles. While the Volvo outperforms the Cadillac in terms of cost, it falls short when considering both its limited driving range and smaller cabin space. Additionally, this model comes equipped with all-wheel drive.
Audi Q4 E-Tron
($56,495) has become outdated and is expected to cover around 258 miles. In comparison, the present-day Lexus RZ450e comes at roughly the same price point but offers a disappointing range of just 220 miles.

What about the world’s most widely used electric vehicle? The
Tesla Model Y
The cost is $52,490 (including tax credits) and it has an estimated range of 327 miles. Thus, it remains a strong choice as well.

While range and price aren’t the only factors, they are crucial specifications that every electric vehicle shopper considers. The Optiq excels in these areas, which is a good sign for its potential sales success.

Cadillac is striving to become the leading manufacturer of luxury electric vehicles in America this year. This compact SUV will likely play a key role in driving that growth far more effectively than any high-end luxury car priced over six figures ever could.

Contact the author:
tim.levin@insideevs.com

More Cadillac EV News

• 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ: Amplified American Luxury, Now Electric
• In 2026, the Cadillac Escalade IQL offers increased legroom and cargo space.
• GM’s Electric Vehicles Are Now Costing Less To Produce Than Their Selling Price
• 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V: This Electric Cadillac Sets the Speed Record
• Exciting New Electric Vehicles Set to Launch in 2025: Will They Be Sufficient?
• Why GM Chief Executive Mary Barra Is Our 2024 Individual of the Year

2025 Cadillac Optiq
Base Price	$54,390
As-Tested Price	$60,595
Drive Type	Dual-motor AWD
Output	300 hp
Maximum torque	354 lb-ft
EV Range	302 miles (EPA)
Battery	85 kWh (usable)