Introducing the 2025 Cadillac Optiq
We first set eyes on the all-new Cadillac Optiq last November, but that was merely a largely fact-free looky-loo. We’ve now received the facts that verify our assumption that the Optiq is closely related to its Ultium-platform-mate, the Chevrolet Equinox EV. The compact Caddy shares its 116.3-inch wheelbase and adopts that model’s (and the Blazer EV’s) optional front permanent-magnet/rear AC-induction-type electric-all-wheel-drive powertrain. However, most of the specs wiggle slightly, and the design inside and out is 100 percent Cadillac. From what we’ve seen of the Optiq thus far, those differences will do much to sell the likely $10K price premium over an equivalent Equinox EV as a bargain.
Optiq as Cadillac’s Electric Entry
The Optiq will serve— for the time being, at least— as the entry point to what will eventually be Cadillac’s four-model all-electric SUV lineup (Optiq, Lyriq, Vistiq, and Escalade IQ). It enters the Cadillac fold sized and priced well above the XT4 and approaching the dimensions of the XT5 but on a 3.3-inch-longer wheelbase that— along with the compact electric powertrain— boosts interior space. Additionally, it’ll show up in the Cadillac showroom as at least $4K fancier than an XT5.
Optiq Power and Performance
Cadillac is launching the 2025 Optiq in a single specification at first, with an 89.4-kWh battery good for an estimated 300 miles of range and capable of adding 70 miles in 10 minutes of 800-volt DC fast charging. The two-motor system makes 288 hp and 333 lb-ft combined (as in the Chevrolet Blazer EV), with the front permanent-magnet machine generating roughly two-thirds of that output. Consequently, there is some concern regarding the torque deficit relative to the Equinox and Chinese-market Optiq (346 and 343 lb-ft), nor did Cadillac confirm the introduction of a two-wheel-drive (hopefully RWD) model, but it seems inevitable.
In a 5,250-pound package, that powertrain is said to be good for a 5.9-second dash to 60 mph, which is slightly slower than its closest electric competitors, the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Mercedes EQB-Class, and a lot slower than the pricier and more powerful Genesis GV70 Electric. However, all of these are smaller inside, and only the Genesis truly rivals the Optiq for luxury. Additionally, one-pedal driving will be supported, as will paddle-actuated regen on demand.
The Optiq’s chassis employs frequency-selective Passive-Plus premium dampers like those on the Lyriq, but here they’re tuned to work with new dual-compound all-season tires to provide sharper handling dynamics. This footwear combines stiffer sidewalls with a slightly more pliant (grippy) tread area, preserving competitive rolling resistance while generating better lateral grip. Moreover, the puncture-repairing sealant inside dampens noise and improves ride (there is no spare). Also helping the Optiq’s dynamics is its chassis, which Cadillac states achieves a torsional rigidity of 40 kNm/deg, which matches that of a Rolls-Royce Phantom VII or W222 S-Class.
Mid-Century Mod Design
Cadillac styling has leaned into a mid-century-modern aesthetic in recent years, with elements like its 2021 logo redesign heavily informed by the work of Dutch painter and theoretician Piet Mondrian. The design applies Mondrian-inspired linework around the vehicle, most noticeably on the C-pillar sail-panel window, where the lines are laminated between layers of glass where they can never be scratched. These lines align with those in the D-pillar parking lamp lenses. One of the classiest applications of the Mondrian line work is in the seat upholstery perforation and stitching patterns.
Interior innovations include a cloth entirely woven of fibers made from recycled PET plastic that covers the dash and doors, providing a high-gloss look similar to carbon fiber. Furthermore, the super cool Paper Wood Deco 1 comprises thin curved layers of dark “cathedral wood” stacked with newspapers. Another soft-touch recycled material called “Tide” lines all storage bins. These materials are available in various hues offering four distinct interior colorways, including Autumn Canyon, Phantom Blue, black and gray, and all black. Moreover, Cadillac’s eight exterior paint colors applied to the Sport or Luxury exterior design themes enhance customization compared to most competitors.
Modern Technology Features
Nothing says 2025 quite like a standard 33-inch curved 9K-resolution screen capable of reproducing a billion colors. However, it’s noteworthy that the Optiq won’t support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The spectacular-sounding standard AKG 19-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system cannot perform its best while playing low-quality streamed audio from a tethered phone. The Ultifi electronic architecture cannot fully integrate its robust EV-charging strategy into a phone-based nav system. Therefore, alternative screen mirroring apps and full Google infotainment integration will be standard instead. Moreover, Super Cruise with three years of service and all the latest active and passive safety gear will be included.
Value Proposition
We’re told pricing for the 2025 Cadillac Optiq will start at around $54,000, which generally aligns with Q4 E-Tron and EQB. However, with battery and vehicle production both sourced in North America, most buyers will likely qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. This would drop its cost to below the average transaction price of all new vehicles. This element positions it reasonably against an entry-level 2.0-liter turbo XT5 AWD, which only comes with a black interior and doesn’t include Super Cruise. Furthermore, it’s also a reasonable upgrade from an AWD Equinox EV with Super Cruise.
