The 2025 Cadillac Optiq premium compact SUV will be the least expensive electric vehicle in Cadillac’s electric portfolio, with a base price of $54,000. It will join the company’s electric SUV lineup, which also includes the larger Lyriq and Vistiq, as well as the flagship Escalade IQ. The company plans to keep its internal combustion SUV family alive until at least 2030. The Optiq aims to set a new standard in space and safety with features like Super Cruise hands-free driving as standard. Analysts believe that the Optiq will serve as an entry point for many into Cadillac’s luxury EV lineup, but there are concerns about how it will coexist alongside the larger Lyriq model.
In terms of competition, the Optiq will challenge vehicles like the Volvo C40 Recharge, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and Mercedes-Benz EQB, all of which have a similar base price but less range. The Tesla Model Y, a popular choice in the small SUV segment, is significantly cheaper starting at $31,490. Meanwhile, the Audi Q4 E-Tron, which hasn’t been well received, is priced slightly higher than the Optiq. Despite the competitive market, Cadillac aims to position the Optiq as a strong contender by offering aggressive incentives and focusing on its EV crossover lineup.
The 2025 Cadillac Optiq features a design inspired by the larger Lyriq SUV, with a low silhouette, glass roof, black crystal grille, and signature lighting. The cabin offers luxury materials like leather, metal accents, recycled fabrics, and PaperWood veneer made from tulip wood and recycled newspaper. A 33-inch LED display with 9K resolution houses the central infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. Safety features include Super Cruise hands-free driving, adaptive cruise control, blind zone warning, automatic parking, emergency braking, and a premium sound system from Dolby and AKG.
The Optiq is equipped with an 85-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack, two motors, and all-wheel drive, delivering 300 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It offers a range of 300 miles, with the ability to regain 79 miles in 10 minutes on a DC fast charger. The vehicle also includes features like Regen on Demand for brake recharging, one-pedal driving, and multiple drive modes including Tour, Sport, Snow/Ice, and My Mode. Google built-in with Google Maps and Assistant is standard, although Apple CarPlay is not available.
With the addition of the Optiq, Cadillac will provide customers with a full lineup of gas-powered SUVs and BEVs, allowing them to choose the best vehicle for their lifestyle without leaving the Cadillac dealership. While the company aims to compete with established players in the small electric SUV segment, success will depend on pricing and incentives. Cadillac has already offered incentives on the Lyriq and is likely to do the same for the Optiq, helping it establish a foothold in the luxury EV market.
