Tested: 2026 Cadillac Optiq RWD Goes Solo
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“Efficient” probably isn’t the first descriptor that comes to mind when you think of Cadillac. The brand cemented its image in the public consciousness with rolling totems of excess, whether they featured giant tail fins, acres of sheetmetal, or imposing presence—possibly all three at once. And while that ethos still holds sway at the top of the lineup in products such as the extravagant Celestiq and the shipping-container-sized Escalade IQ, Cadillac is also able to embrace more modern virtues. As evidence, take the Optiq. This EV sits at the affordable end of the Cadillac spectrum, and changes for 2026 have it wringing more performance from its electric powertrains. The Optiq’s single-motor setup is new for 2026. With 315 horsepower, it has more grunt than last year’s dual-motor configuration, which mustered 300 horses. (For 2026, the dual-motor version saw a big jump in output, to 440 horsepower.) The Optiq’s pony count compares favorably with the single-motor Lexus RZ350e (221 horsepower), Genesis GV60 (225), and Audi Q4 e-tron (282), but it trails the Volvo EX60 and Mercedes-Benz GLC300+ (both with 369 ponies). Driving the rear wheels, the single-motor Optiq gets to 60 mph in 5
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View Interior Photos of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq RWD
Marc Urbano|Car and DriverThis is the Premium Sport trim level, but all Optiqs are well equipped. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverThe seat upholstery is called Inteluxe. Which is your clue that it’s not leather. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverThe glossy band at the top of the steering-wheel rim is the Super Cruise indicator. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverThe driver’s display can be configured to show different information. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverA row of real buttons lives below the touchscreen. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverCadillac still has a rotary controller, which is helpful for operating the center screen without taking your eyes off the road. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverBesides the two cupholders and the bin under the armrest, there’s also a narrow slot at the front of the two-tier center console and a big open bay at the bottom. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverWe liked the look of the nubby gray cloth material on the top of the doors. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverKeep scrolling to see more pictures of the Optiq interior.
View Exterior Photos of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq RWD
Marc Urbano|Car and DriverThe Optiq is Cadillac’s smallest EV. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverIt’s also the brand’s least expensive electric offering, starting at just over $50,000. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverThe single motor powers the rear wheels. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverTotal horsepower is a respectable 315 ponies. Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowMarc Urbano|Car and DriverThe EPA range estimate for this version of the Optiq is 317 miles. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverKeep scrolling to see more pictures of the Cadillac Optiq.
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